This content originally appeared on St. Lucia Times.
Virginia "Hettie" Philip celebrated her 100th birthday this week, joining the ranks of Saint Lucia's centenarians, as family, friends and officials honoured a life they say has been defined by resilience, sacrifice, faith and service. Philip was born on July 8, 1926, in Garrand, Babonneau, to Lydia Philip and Anthony Beharry. Over the years, she witnessed many changes and progress. She later settled in Marchand, Castries, where she raised her family and still lives today.