Arthur Robinson addresses family and friends during his 100th birthday party at the Grog Shoppe, Devon House, St Andrew on Saturday, April 7. - Anthony Minott

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Life & Times,

7 North Street, Kingston

Centenarian Arthur Theophilus Robinson has truly weathered the storm. Twelve years ago, he lost his wife and if that was not enough, he has done four surgeries to treat his problem of protate cancer.

But, on April 7 the tragedy he had suffered in his life took a backseat as he celebrated his 100th birthday. And, his family ensured that if he lived another 100 years this day was one he would not forget.

The birthday boy got many hugs, kisses and adoration at his party on April 7, at the Grog Shoppe, Devon House in St Andrew.

Robinson was filled with joy on his special occasion: "I feel all right, no pain, only a little arthritis in me knees," the centenarian said.

When he was younger Mr. Robinson was a farmer, and used this as a means to care for his family.

"I loved cultivating the land. I planted yam, ginger, Irish potato, is that I use to raise my children," a proud Mr. Robinson said.

He said these days he has to take it easy; but still finds time to do his morning exercise, which is a light walk in the community where he lives.

"I just get up in the morning and exercise, and eat my breakfast" he said.

Mr. Robinson's fifth child, Winnifred Monica Robinson cares for her father, and they live in Cassia Park, Kingston 10.

Miss Robinson said he is quite active for his age. "He reads his Bible (big print) without the use of eye glasses. He walks sometimes without his stick, but when his foot is tired he draws for his stick."

Paulette Bankroft, 41, who is Robinson's caregiver said the centenarian is strong for his age. "He fix his own breakfast, and bathes himself." She continued: "As he wakes up in the morning, he says that he wants his breakfast.

Tributes rained down on the 100 year-old man from his sons, daughters, grandchildren and in-laws.

In all, Mr. Robinson has nine children and twenty grandchildren.

Dale Edwards did messages in song, singing some old favourites. Grandchildren Lezly and Shari Robinson sent tribute through songs. Lezly played the tune 'Fur Ellis' on keyboard, and Shari sung a selection written by Mr. Robinson's daughter, Winnifred Robinson, affectionately called 'Auntie Monica'.

The event came to an emotional climax, as the youngest grandchildren Racqueish Robinson and Roshaun Robinson

assisted their grandfather to cut his birthday cake. Also in the lime light was Auntie Monica.

Arthur Theophilus Robinson was born on April 3 , 1907. A retired farmer from Lorrimers, Trelawny, he travelled twice to the U.S.A. on the farm work programme and some years later, in the mid 1950s, he travelled to England where he worked for approximately ten years.

He's now a widower, as his wife died 12 years ago.

Mr. Robinson is an ardent Christian and worships at the Tarrant Baptist Church, 51 Molynes Road, where he attends almost every Sunday morning.

He underwent four surgeries to treat his prostate cancer and he has weathered the storm very well.

He attributes his long life and well-being to God who has been his master, his source and his strength. He is quite alert and aware and he is able to do basic things for him self.

One of Arthur Robinson's daughter's, Doloris Miller (right), kisses him during his 100th birthday party at the Grog Shoppe, Devon House, St. Andrew, on Saturday, April 7. - Anthony Minott