Icilma Marsh maybe the fittest centenarian in Barbados.
The active and high-spirited woman said she liked to be on the go, adding that when she retired as a seamstress, she did not “want to sit around and wait to die”.
She is the oldest member of the Surfside Wellness Gym, which she attends three to four times a week. There, she takes part in the Active Seniors Aerobics and Super Circuit classes and works out with personal trainer Anita Husbands.
During a pre-birthday celebration held at the Wildey, St Michael gym, Marsh told the media she was a strong believer of active ageing, adding that as a diabetic, who also suffers from arthritis, being healthy was a must.
The ground provision and fried flying fish lover credited her active lifestyle for her longevity.
The centenarian also likes cooking, going shopping in Bridgetown, walking around her Ashdeane Village, Black Rock, St Michael community, where she lives with her one of her six granddaughters, Samantha Howell, and two of her six great-grandchildren.
Marsh also enjoys dancing to up tempo music and yesterday she made a grand entrance at her party when she entered wuking up to a catchy beat.
Marsh, who turned 100 today, was also graced by the presence of the Governor General Dame Sandra Mason, her long-time friend. Dame Sandra and the birthday girl used to work out together with the previous owner of the gym Maureen Branson when the gym was located at the Hilton Barbados in the late 1900’s. Dame Sandra would also be making a special visit to her home today to catch up on old times.
Marsh was showered with a number of gifts from family and friends and there was plenty drinks and food to go around.
The mother of two left Barbados when she was 40 years old to travel to England, where she lived for 25 years. (SB)
