Ruby Mingo is 104 not out

Nov 12, 2023 Features / Columnists, News, Waterfalls Magazine

Waterfalls Magazine – Many people dream of living a long life and witnessing the birth and growth of their generations. For many they only have the privilege of seeing up to their grandchildren before they depart the earthly realm. For Ruby Mingo, fondly referred to as ‘Rubes’ by those close to her, this isn’t the case.

Ruby Mingo is 104 not out

The centenarian has batted in the proverbial game of life’s cricket and hit every single 104 balls bowled to her excellently. She has outlived most if not all of her peers and siblings, probably most of those born in her generation and is now considered a living wonder.

A strong Seventh Day Adventist Ruby is a pillar of strength for many and has more adopted, foster children, grand and great grandchildren than she can count. Everyone who has touched base or crossed paths with this 104 year old described her as the sweetest person.

As such, The Waterfalls was privileged to be included in a small intimate ceremony at the matriarch’s request to celebrate her 104th birthday on November 9^th. Walking into the living room of her Haslington East Cast Demerara home where the service was held, a feeling of warmth and homeliness emanated from each corner and crevice.

A smartly put together theme of gold and green to match her two tier cake surrounded the environs and the elderly patrons; all of the décor this publication later learnt, Ruby handpicked herself and put together with the help of family members, a few friends and her church family.

Sitting at the table under an arch of balloons like the queen she is, Ruby was dressed in nude pumps, stockings, a floral hat and scarf to compliment all the greenery of the decoration. She was all smiles and giggled as multiple persons went up to greet her.

During the short service which saw 31 people join via zoom as well, we were able to get some insight of how Ruby managed her family and kept them in check. Many people shared fond memories they had and one of her sons, Mortimer even pointed out that at her age she still has a smart mouth. He however failed to mention that Ruby was very feisty and could stand as well as walk around quite comfortably relying on her walker from time to time.

As the ceremony ended her grandson Randy whom she seems to be very fond of informed those gathered that she had a few words to say, it was expected at least that she would just be speaking from memory but surprisingly a laptop was produced and Ruby read the speech her grandson had typed out at her request without her glasses. The centenarian had all of her 5 senses intact and her memory was excellent.

During an interview with us she took us down memory lane from her childhood straight to adulthood and shared a few of her favourite memories. “I was born on November 8th 1919. I grew up very poor but my mother was always there and she always said go to school on time to say your prayers and get an education, learn.”

Ruby informed that she was always punctual and if there was an award for the three people always on time at the school, she was always first. “When I was born my father died, it was balata season and so I don’t know my father personally. My mother kept memories, and from what he had in the house I can tell he loved his children. So I always say to myself that I would always like to see my heavenly father and my earthly father face.”

Rube keeps in tune with all the current affairs of the county via television and even commented on the border controversy. Ruby had 7 siblings and 11 offspring of which eight are alive. Chuckling, she recalls her mother hated the name Maria Bellona and preferred to be called Norna Simon.

After completing her secondary education she ventured into the world of work and started in the domestic field. Even though it was hard work, the fact that she was fending for herself and was able to help others, kept her going.

Hard work, determination and serving her creator are the main things, the 104 year old attributes to a long life. She wants young people to know that the race is not for the swift but for those who can endure to the end. The centenarian expressed extreme happiness at how her birthday turned out and she is extremely grateful that she’s in great health and fully mobile.

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fondly referred, For Ruby Mingo, Haslington East Cast Demerara, Memories, Mortimer

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