Antigua and Barbuda’s oldest known living citizen, Irenie Mussington, marked an extraordinary milestone on Saturday as she celebrated her 103rd birthday, receiving heartfelt tributes from Governor General Sir Rodney Williams, Prime Minister Gaston Browne, family members and well-wishers.

Born on July 4, 1923, to Victoria Eli and Jeremiah Mussington, the Antiguan centenarian’s remarkable life has been defined by resilience, hard work and unwavering determination.

Raised in Green Bay, Mussington attended Green Bay Primary School before tragedy struck at the age of nine when her mother passed away. She later moved to Dickenson Bay Street to live with her maternal grandmother, Louisa Martin, affectionately known as “Mama Lou Lou.”

By the age of 11, Mussington was forced to leave school after her grandmother was injured, taking on domestic work to provide for both herself and her grandmother.

At 18, encouraged by a friend to become self-employed, she ventured into business as a street vendor on the corner of Market Street and St. Mary’s Street. She initially sold homemade treats, including sugar cakes, fudge, candy, Baby Ruth sweets and roasted peanuts, before expanding into local beverages and later clothing to cater to visiting cruise passengers at Heritage Quay.

She continued operating her business outside Bata Shoe Store, and later Cecil Shoe Store, until the age of 83.

Beyond her entrepreneurial success, Mussington built a strong family legacy. She is the proud mother of three children, grandmother of nine and great-grandmother of nine.

During a special birthday visit, Governor General Sir Rodney Williams praised Mussington’s remarkable life and the values she has embodied for more than a century.

“Your life is one of resilience, determination and service,” Sir Rodney said. “Despite experiencing hardship at a young age, you persevered with courage and industry, building an honest livelihood through your years as a vendor and making a meaningful contribution to our community.”

He added that her journey serves as an inspiration to generations of Antiguans and Barbudans, describing her as a shining example of hard work, faith, commitment to family and dedication to community.

Prime Minister Gaston Browne also paid tribute during his weekly radio and television programme, pausing to wish Mussington a happy birthday and describing her as “a national treasure.” In a light-hearted moment, the Prime Minister joked that the nation would love to know the secret behind her extraordinary longevity.

As part of the celebration, Mussington was presented with a $10,000 cheque on behalf of the Government and people of Antigua and Barbuda in recognition of her milestone achievement.

At 103 years old, Irenie Mussington remains a living testament to perseverance, strength and resilience, with a life story that continues to inspire the nation.