HE WAS A FATHER to some, kind community Samaritan to others.

But for an adoring nephew, the island's newest centenarian Oliver Alonza Best was his saviour.

"He was always my helper, my friend. And I always imagined that when I grew up I would want to be like him, and that's why I'm here with him today," said Carl Springer at his uncle's birthday celebrations on Monday.

Best, native of Lakes Village, St Andrew, was the youngest of six children and the father of ten - seven daughters and three sons.

He began his professional career as a tailor, but moved on to the Ministry of Transport and Works in search of a higher standard of living for late wife Eudora and their children.

Best also worked at the sugar cane factory at Haggatts, St Andrew, and was supervisor at the Soil Conservation Commission until he retired in 1975.

Barbados' newest centenarian, who celebrated his milestone in the presence of some of his 15 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren, also reared livestock and enjoyed sharing the produce with others.

"He milked his cows every morning and give the milk to the relatives and friends. He made that a habit of his, because he believed that generosity was a virtue and all persons should share what they had with their family and friends," said 80-year-old Springer.

"If he killed [one of the animals] he never sold the meat, he gave it to his relatives and friends in the district."

He also recalled a rainy St Andrew day while in primary school, that well illustrated Best's loving nature.

"When the rain fell in St Andrew and the rivers were swollen he would put me on his back and take me to a point in Haggatts where I would [be able] to walk to school from. He was a good man and still is a good man."

Best was independent up until the age of 96 years old, and would walk from his home to the Belleplaine post office to collect his pension cheque. Now, he is cared for by Valda Best, assisted by Inez Forde. (LW)