Lucille Seymour, a community activist and former member of the Legislative Assembly, recently marked her 80th birthday with a message of gratitude, reflection and vision for the future.
“This milestone is not just about the passing of years; it is a tribute to the vibrant community our beloved Cayman Islands and the incredible people who have enriched my life along the way,” Seymour said in a heartfelt Facebook post on Monday.
“Throughout my eight decades, I’ve seen the power of love, unity and compassion in action. My vision for our community has always been one where kindness and care know no boundaries – where we uplift one another and ensure that no one is left behind. Today, I urge each of you to embrace this vision wholeheartedly.”
Seymour – a former teacher, principal, education officer, sportswoman, mentor, community activist and Cayman’s first female Permanent Secretary – noted that we stand at a crucial juncture in our history.
“The importance of fostering inclusivity, understanding, and support has never been more vital,” she said.
“Let us commit to genuinely listening to one another, celebrating our differences and nurturing the spirit of togetherness. Every small act of kindness contributes to the larger tapestry of our community.”
She welcomed the significant milestone with a Cayman-style birthday bash on Saturday night on the courtyard of Pedro St. James in Savannah with entertainment, toasts and local cuisine.
Sitting to the side, with her legs crossed, Seymour listened intently to the praise that poured in from close family, friends, colleagues and associates, including Minister Kenneth Bryan, Lynette Monteith, Deanna Look Loy, Joey Hew and Larry Mitchell, each raising their glasses to the much liked and greatly respected community leader.
During his toast, friend and colleague Sir Alden McLaughlin acknowledged it was Seymour who helped establish the People’s Progressive Movement.
“You didn’t just establish a political party; you planted the seeds of service and community for generations to come,” McLaughlin said.
“We celebrate a life lived with purpose and passion. A life dedicated to making the world better for others. A life that has touched so many of us in this room, whether through personal mentorship, your public service, or simply by being the guiding light of this party for so many years … At 80 years young, your energy continues to inspire us. Your wisdom continues to guide us … May you continue to inspire us for many years to come.”
Seymour said she was “glad for all the nice things you said, that I could hear and laugh” while alive.
She spoke about her childhood, being the ninth of 11 children born to a single mother, growing up on Shedden Road in George Town, her mother’s influence and the joy of service her country and community.
“I can’t believe it … . It really dawned on me that I was coming out of my 79th year … . I don’t think ‘old’. What is in my head is that I’m just 40, 30,” Seymour said.
“Even when I had my hip replacement, I got up, rebounded and here I am walking well … I can tell people that 80 is the new 60.”
For others who are ageing, Seymour advised attendees, “Drink a little vodka, stop drinking coffee, don’t eat a lot of beef, drive a Toyota, get up in the morning and go swimming in the sea, and always work with young people.”
Attendees enjoyed a buffet-style dinner and took in local performances by the UCCI Dance Company, Colindra Rodericka McGarvey-Sterling, and Earl La Pierre. The evening was brought to a close with Seymour and many others on the dance floor, grooving to the sounds of the Swanky Kitchen Band.
In celebrating her 80th birthday, Seymour said she is, “filled with hope and excitement for the future,” and is reminded of the values that have guided us throughout our lives – resilience, empathy, and the importance of giving back.
She encouraged everyone to, “listen with open hearts, reach out to new faces, get involved locally, celebrate diversity, highlight resilience, advocate for safety and respect, and inspire through action”.
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