‘I feel really, really good’: East Dulwich woman turns 105 and shares secrets to longevity

A woman from East Dulwich said she feels “really, really good” after turning 105 last week, living for more than a century and celebrating with her family members.

Virginia Thompson celebrated her birthday on Thursday of last week at ElimHouse Community Association in Bellenden Road, Peckham Rye, surrounded by family and friends.

Speaking to the South London Press, Mrs Thompson said: “I can’t even explain it. In my heart, I feel really, really good. I thank God to be celebrating this wonderful birthday. 

“I would also like to thank my family for all their love throughout the years.”

Joining the celebrations was the High Commissioner of Grenada in the UK, Rachér Croney.

Born in L’Esterre, Carriacou, Grenada to Henry and Maryanne Bartholomew, Mrs Thompson grew up with nine other siblings – four brothers and five sisters – who have all since passed away.

She moved to the UK aged in her 40s to join her husband, Robert Thompson, in Huddersfield, Yorkshire. Together the couple had six children, three girls and three boys.

Mrs Thompson said: “Some of my happiest memories were with my husband, who was an amazing husband and father to me and my children. 

“Also, I thank God that I was able to live long enough to see my grandchildren get married.”

Mrs Thomspon started working in a fabric mill when she moved to the UK, but she said she did not enjoy the work, so she moved on to working at a hospital as an orderly until she retired at the age of 60. 

Throughout her life she travelled back and forth to Grenada. Now, Mrs Thompson said she enjoys sewing, knitting, crocheting, cooking and baking.

Established in 1980, ElimHouse provides day centre facilities, advice, support, community care and activities for Southwark’s elderly Caribbean community. 

Although its service users are mainly Caribbean, ElimHouse also provides support to elderly people of African and other BME heritage.

Mrs Thompson said: “ElimHouse has been a wonderful experience for me. I enjoy being around people and I think it has been a lifeline for me to keep going.”

When asked what advice she would offer to younger generations, she said: “Be respectful, be honest, give God the glory as he is our saviour and be a genuine good person as good follows good.”

Pictured top: Virginia Thompson on her 105th birthday at ElimHouse (Picture: ElimHouse)