Barbados witnessed a remarkable celebration of longevity as Barbara Joan Wickham-Mitchell, affectionately known as “Mimo”, reached her centennial milestone surrounded by family and dignitaries at her Christ Church residence. The Thursday gathering transformed into a national tribute when President Jeffrey Bostic personally delivered champagne, flowers, and an official birthday card to the celebrated centenarian.
Demonstrating the sharp cognitive abilities that have defined her later years, Wickham-Mitchell read the presidential message aloud before captivating guests with vivid storytelling and humor. When queried about her century-long journey, she responded with characteristic simplicity: “Great.” The independent centenarian continues to manage her own daily routines, preferring home-based relaxation while maintaining her culinary passion for coconut bread.
Her life story reflects Barbados’ modern history: raised in Government Hill, she briefly resided in the United States before returning to her homeland during the 1960s. She established the notable Pelican Restaurant on Pelican Island while simultaneously maintaining active roles in both community affairs and the Religious Science Church in Cave Hill, St Michael.
The Wickham family legacy carries significant historical weight. Her father, Clennell Wickham, served as editor of The Herald newspaper and emerged as a pivotal figure in Barbados’ interwar democratic movement. His political activism forced exile to Grenada following a libel lawsuit concerning his refusal to endorse Walter Bayley’s merchant candidacy. He subsequently edited The West Indian newspaper until his premature death at age 43 in 1938.
Family tributes highlighted Wickham-Mitchell’s extraordinary resilience and philosophical depth. Nephew Peter Wickham, a prominent political scientist, emphasized her pragmatic spirituality: “She would never debate whether Jesus walked on water but can speak extensively on the virtues God would want to impress upon us.” He recalled her distinctive approach to faith: “One should spend less time praying for a miracle and more time giving thanks that God has provided you with the knowledge to study, learn and work hard to make this miracle happen.”
Her strength manifested through simultaneous caregiving for multiple family members while operating her business enterprise. Despite advanced age, she maintains impressive independence, navigating stairs with determination that surpasses most contemporaries. Her organizational methodology includes meticulous documentation of everything from meal preparation to social scheduling, consistently advocating that “you should write it down.”
The centenarian values authentic human connection, preferring face-to-face interactions for their nuanced communication potential. Her family tree includes six grandchildren and one great-grandchild, extending the Wickham legacy that previously saw her aunt Barbara achieve 109 years. Having outlived her husband Anthony Mitchell, she leaves one biological child alongside stepchildren who joined in celebrating a life embodying Barbados’ cultural and historical tapestry.