Anguilla’s oldest citizen, Mr Charlie Gumbs, a long-retired taxi-driver and businessman of The Quarter, has died at the age of 103 years and 8 months. His next birthday would have been on August 26.
Speaking about his longevity, when he turned 103 last year, he stated: “I may be the oldest citizen in Anguilla, but certainly the youngest at heart.” His expression was one of those admirable qualities of positive living and commentary he possessed.
Mr Gumbs is remembered not just as a grand old man, but as a most revered and highly-respected gentleman, steeped in the best traditions of Anguillian life, and the noble and cherished virtues of past generations.
He has had the distinct pleasure of having had a long, full and productive life that has spanned both the old Anguilla and the new Anguilla, and an opportunity to distinguish the differences between a traditional and modern Anguillian society with all of its social, economic and political changes.
In addition to having been a contributor to the social life of the island, and its then budding tourism industry, Mr Gumbs has been an active supporter of the Anguilla Revolution. That revolution, 1967-69, has largely resulted in the formal separation of Anguilla from St Kitts-Nevis and the economic prosperity the island has enjoyed over the years. He was awarded the Queen’s Certificate and Medal of Honour for his contribution to the Revolution.
Mr Gumbs was admired for his jolly disposition; his hearty laughter; his wit and humour; his love for life, family and friends; and his qualities of spiritual living. In his latter years, he was a daily familiar figure sitting on his veranda. He was there either to relax or to attract passers-by for a strong handshake and a jovial conversation – particularly about yester-year in Anguilla – and the enthralling stories that only he knew so well.
The Anguillan offers its condolences to all family members and friends of the late Mr Charlie Gumbs.
