Cynthia Dick is 80 not out!

Cynthia Hyacinth Dick, mother of Gleaner columnist/author Reverend Devon Dick, celebrated her 80th birthday on Saturday, January 14, at Four Seasons Hotel, surrounded by family and friends. She wore a pink gown with silver shoes.

Born January 9, 1932, to Hilda and Theophilous Gordon, Mrs Dick is affectionately known as 'Ms Glor' in her home parish of St Thomas. By age 30, she had the largest shop in Airy Castle, dedicated her life to Christ and community and married ex-Royal Air Force man, Willard Dick, now deceased.

In those pre-independence days, Mrs Dick demonstrated a work ethic and life balance that women in subsequent generations continue to strive for. At home, she instilled a sense of scholarship and religion in her children, all of whom became professionals active in Jamaican society. Two are frequently cited as saviours in their own right: vascular surgeon Dr Leon Dick, the eldest son known for medical missions across the Caribbean, and the Reverend Dr Devon Dick, the youngest, who leads the congregation at Boulevard Baptist Church.

The birthday celebrant served on the board of governors for Airy Castle Primary School, even though she never went to secondary school. Her other children Ainsworth and Marva continue her tradition of hard work.

Long before her children's activities, Mrs Dick's model engagement as businesswoman and community organiser would reap benefits for community members as attested by Dr Fenton Ferguson, member of parliament, who preceded a surprise appearance from Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller, much to the delight of the 80 guests and guest of honour.

In a brief, but rousing toast, Simpson Miller lauded Mrs Dick's humility and community involvement. Referring to Mrs Dick's youthful appearance and her own age-defying looks, the prime minister quipped that she and Mrs Dick may be "from the same line", inviting other positive comparisons between both women.

Mrs Dick, in her response, said: "The event, the visit from Portia, this means a lot; I'll never forget it."

The function was chaired by her daughter-in-law Mary Dick while her niece Karen Robinson of Ghett'A Life toasted the occasion.

- Tahalia Barrett