Grenada Today - The National Newspaper of Grenada, Carriacou & Petite Martinique

Ronald Ethelbert Ramus Best affectionately known as "Old Best" will celebrate his 100th birthday on February 1 (Tuesday).

The soon-to-be centenarian is the son of Stella Paul who was originally from Mt. Rich, St. Patrick's and James Best, a Barbadian Sailor. "Old Best" was born in La Fortune, St.Patrick's but his mother migrated to St. George's where he grew up as a child.

He later returned to St. Patrick's and lived in Snell Hall for many years before finally moving to Mt. Rose. Presently he resides with his daughter at Snell Hall. Old Best attended the St. George's Anglican School and after leaving school, was employed as a servant with the Hughes' family in St. George's.

He later found employment as an Overseer at the Mt. Rich estate and also as a Road Driver with the Public Works Department St. Patrick's. On December 27, 1931, Old Best married Maize Christiana Thomas. He fathered 19 children -twelve of whom are still alive.

They are Boyzie Best, Ruth Best, Cyris Best, Stella Best, Eldica Phillip, Nathaniel Best, Irvin Best, Crafton Best, Artlai Best, Crawford Best, Tarilton Best and Victor Rocastle. Old Best was also involved in many community services and at one time was Secretary to the Mt. Rich Benefit Society.

He was also instrumental in the commencement of the Mt. Rose SDA Primary School and some of his children were among the first students of the school. This senior citizen was blessed with the privilege of seeing his 4th generation attending that school. Presently two of his grand daughters are employed as teachers with the school.

His philosophy was that hard work brought great results and the reading of good books builds great minds. Old Best believes that he will not die but will see the coming of his Lord, Jesus Christ whom he is convinced is coming very soon. He often says: "Live for Jesus, die with Jesus and you will reign with Jesus".