Antigua and Barbuda's oldest known living citizen, Irenie Mussington, celebrated her 103rd birthday on Saturday, receiving tributes from Governor General Sir Rodney Williams, Prime Minister Gaston Browne, family members and well-wishers across the nation. According to Antigua.news, the milestone was marked with a special government visit and a financial gift in her honour.
Born on July 4, 1923, to Victoria Eli and Jeremiah Mussington, the centenarian's life has been shaped by resilience, hard work and unwavering determination. She grew up in Green Bay, where she attended Green Bay Primary School, but tragedy struck early when her mother passed away at the age of nine. She subsequently moved to Dickenson Bay Street to live with her maternal grandmother, Louisa Martin — affectionately known as "Mama Lou Lou."
Hardship continued when, at just 11 years old, Mussington was forced to leave school after her grandmother suffered an injury. She took on domestic work to support both herself and her grandmother.
At 18, encouraged by a friend to pursue self-employment, she established herself as a street vendor on the corner of Market Street and St. Mary's Street. She began by selling homemade treats — sugar cakes, fudge, candy, Baby Ruth sweets and roasted peanuts — before expanding her offerings to include local beverages and later clothing to serve visiting cruise passengers at Heritage Quay. She continued operating her business outside Bata Shoe Store, and later Cecil Shoe Store, until the age of 83.
Beyond her entrepreneurial achievements, Mussington built an enduring family legacy. She is the mother of three children, grandmother of nine and great-grandmother of nine.
During a birthday visit, Governor General Sir Rodney Williams paid tribute to her extraordinary life. "Your life is one of resilience, determination and service," Sir Rodney said. "Despite experiencing hardship at a young age, you persevered with courage and industry, building an honest livelihood through your years as a vendor and making a meaningful contribution to our community." He described her as a shining example of hard work, faith, commitment to family and dedication to community, and said her journey serves as an inspiration to generations of Antiguans and Barbudans.
Prime Minister Gaston Browne also honoured Mussington during his weekly radio and television programme, describing her as "a national treasure." In a light-hearted moment, the Prime Minister joked that the nation would love to know the secret behind her extraordinary longevity.
As part of the celebrations, Mussington was presented with a $10,000 cheque on behalf of the Government and people of Antigua and Barbuda in recognition of her milestone achievement.
At 103 years old, Irenie Mussington remains a living testament to perseverance and strength — a life story that continues to inspire the nation.
