Centenarian, Solomon Higgins, recalls his earlier years. - Ian Allen photos

Solomon Higgins shares a smile.

Solomon Higgins from the rural community of Epworth in St Ann, celebrated his 101st birthday on December 24, but by looking at him and hearing about his current feat, one would find it difficult to believe he is a centenarian.

Higgins is the oldest person in his area, with his wife, 99-year-old Milicent Higgins, next in line. The couple who have been married for 64 years, have five children together.

The former carpenter told THE STAR Life and Times that his advice to couples who wish to have a long relationship as his is to, "never let love escape through the window and hatred come through the door. I have been married for 64 years and I am thankful."

Unfortunately, his wife was unable to speak with us as she is bedridden due to illness. But unlike his wife, Solomon is not troubled with the ailments that would accompany someone of his age. His memory is still intact, he sees and reads without glasses and he hears well.

According to his 51-year-old daughter Clarine, despite her father's age, he is very independent.

"Daddy still cooks, if I have to leave and go anywhere he will cook, he even still catch and carry water from the tank in the yard, he can help himself," the couple's last child told THE STAR Life and Times.

Residents told THE STAR Life and Times that Higgins is a stalwart in their community, whom they respect and love.

"He's a people person, very friendly and loves young people. He always have encouragement to give people and he's very hardworking, even at age 101 he still goes to his farm although not very regularly due to his age," 46-year-old Precious, who has lived in the community for many many years, expressed.

His wife Milicent, also posseses similar traits according to her grandson, 31-year-old Troy Stewart.

"She's a very loving and caring person, like if anyone comes to visit her, she always like to give them something, if is even to go in her garden and take some cho-cho to give, if she doesn't have anything to give them, she would feel a way," he shared.

Clarine also told THE STAR that her mother is not only kind but was also hardworking. "Mommy is a fun-loving person, she worked very hard, she used to do domestic work and then from there she did farming, she never used to siddung!" she recalled.

A very pleasant and jovial Higgins shared with THE STAR Life and Times,his advice for those who wish to live as long and content as him. "Try to live a Godly life, who God bless no man touch. I am here and alive today through the God I put my trust in," he advised.