Simple advice from a centenarian: ‘Live the Ten Commandments’

Denia De Four of Four Roads, Tamana celebrated her 100th birthday on Wednesday, October 9. The celebrations took the form of a Mass, concelebrated by Msgr Michael de Verteuil and Fr Emmanuel Pierre at the Church of St Joachim and St Ann, followed by a reception in the churchyard.

Denia De Four, formerly Denia ‘Adella’ Monsegue, was born in Mundo Nuevo to Leon Emmanuel and Louisa, formerly Homer Monsegue. Her father relocated with his family of eight to Four Roads, Tamana while she was still a child.

At 28 years, Denia married Sylvanio De Four, on November 15, 1947 at the Church of San Raphael.

Sylvanio and Denia resided in the village of Four Roads, Tamana. They had six biological children and opened their home to two additional children whose mothers had died.

Sylvanio died in December 1986 and for the past 30 years, Denia has continued her life as she ever was—humble, soft-spoken, full of kindness, giving to those in need, and supporting her children in their efforts to build the church and community of Four Roads and wherever else they resided.

To the question “What is the most important thing to do in order to live a good life?” Her reply is “Live the Ten Commandments. That is all.” She continues, “I did my duty. I made sure my children were baptised, made First Communion, then Confirmation. It’s now up to them.”

Denia also received a congratulatory message on the occasion of her 100th birthday from the President of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, Her Excellency Paula-Mae Weekes. —Linda Claudia De Four