Islington man turns 104 

John Rudder, affectionately known as “Johnny,” of Islington Village, East Bank Berbice turned 104 years old on Sunday.

Born on July 12, 1922, Rudder was raised in Kortberaad and other villages along the East Bank of Berbice. He attended Friends Primary School before leaving at the age of 15 to work as a cane harvester at the former Friends and Providence sugar estates.

In his twenties, he married Kulsum, and together they had six children, although one has since passed away. Their marriage was cut short when Kulsum died during childbirth. He later married Magret Rudder, and the couple had four more children. Now 96 years old, Magret continues to care for her husband.

Although age has affected his hearing, speech and mobility, Rudder remains surrounded by a loving family. He is unable to walk without assistance, and his speech has become less clear in recent years.

His youngest son, Wilton Rudder, said the family considers it a privilege to celebrate such a significant milestone with their father.

“It is an honour and a joy to have a father who has lived to be 104 years old. Many people wish they still had their parents with them, and we are truly grateful for this blessing,” Wilton said.

He described his father as a peaceful, hardworking and caring man who devoted his life to providing for his family.

“I’ve never seen my father involved in any quarrel, and I’ve never seen him abuse my mother. He has always been a man of peace,” he said.

Wilton acknowledged that his father’s health has gradually declined with age, however, he said these changes are a natural part of ageing.
About two years ago, Rudder was still able to read without glasses, but his eyesight has since deteriorated.

Wilton, who travelled to Guyana specifically for the occasion, said spending time with his father was more important than holding a lavish celebration.

“We celebrated in a big way when he turned 100. This year, it’s simply about being together and appreciating this precious moment. I don’t know if I’ll have this opportunity again, so I wanted to make this trip and celebrate with him,” he said.

A devoted member of the Sisters Seventh-day Adventist Church, Rudder is the patriarch of a large family that includes numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren, whose lives continue to reflect the legacy of a man remembered for his humility, kindness and dedication to family.