commemorated his 103rd birthday last Saturday. Rudder grew up in the East Bank Berbice village of Korthberaadt between 10 siblings, all of whom he has outlived. The centenarian is a major highlight of his community of Islington, where his inspiring natural endurance is a frequent feature in casual conversations among the young and old.

In his earlier years, Rudder dedicated himself to the soil as a farmer to provide for his family. He took to cane harvesting at the Providence Estate along the East Bank of Berbice, after which he worked as a watchman at that very estate. He is a father to seven children, and shares a modest dwelling place with his wife Margeret Haynes- Rudder, who is close on his heels at age 95, and to whom he has been married for an astounding 70 years.

At 103, the man who transcended many generations is notably capable of shuffling on his own two feet. His vision, even at over 100 years old, remains superior to many who are way below his significant age. He credits these remarkable things to God. Rudder is a staunch Seventh-day Adventist. He remains active in bible studies with many who stop by. His voice, though diminished by age, still harbors clarity, and his expression of thought is as coherent as a learned lawyer. (Kaieteur News)