Marie Monique-Marthol (white shirt & glasses), Bernice’s niece, standing over her aunt. Sebastian is also surrounded by loved ones during her special day. (Photo provided by Teresa Browne-Parris.)

Bernice Rosalind Eugenie Sebastian, the oldest living person in the city of Philadelphia, has reached yet another historic milestone on September 21, turning 112 with a celebration that brought much emotion and unity among those who attended her special day.

There were 27 family and friends in attendance to celebrate the birthday at Sebastian’s home in West Germantown, and about 100 people from across the nation and internationally, who tuned in virtually over Zoom on Sunday afternoon.

“It was quite emotional at times when some of the family members were speaking and giving their testimonies on what she’s done and where she’s been; it was actually very tearful,” said organizer of the event, Teresa Browne-Parris.

“You could hear [Sebastian] responding to the cheers and words coming from the audience.”

Sebastian, shining in all-white attire, sat in her living room, surrounded by joyous energy, for everyone to see and embrace.

Parris, who’s the founder and owner of One Caribbean Chamber, which connects and empowers Caribbean entrepreneurs, professionals, and businesses throughout the Tri-State area, has grown a closer connection with Sebastian and the family in recent years.

“Here is a lady who’s 112 years old and has never had [major illnesses]; it’s just beautiful,” Parris added. “Her faculties are still quite intact; she’s not as mobile as she would like to be, but is still alert and very smart.”

Numerous slideshows were displayed in person and via Zoom, showcasing many pictures of Bernice with her loved ones over the years.

Governor Josh Shapiro sent a handwritten letter to Sebastian for the monumental occasion, which Parris read out loud to everyone in attendance.

“Dear Bernice, happy birthday. The First Lady and I are sending our best wishes as you celebrate your 112th birthday. We hope that this time is a moment of reflection for you on your past achievements, your hopes for the future, your loved ones, and your many blessings. Here’s to continued happiness and health in the coming years. 

All the best,
Governor Josh Shapiro, Pennsylvania.”

State Representative Andre D. Carroll joined the Zoom meeting and expressed his sentiment for Sebastian, who has now resided in his legislative district for over a decade.

“There’s nothing bigger than another year of life, so I just want to say happy birthday on this joyous occasion,” Carroll said. “And I’m happy that because of technology, we get a chance to enjoy it together. I wish her many more.”

There was also a period allocated for people to speak and share their sentiments on the life of Sebastian and the impact she has had. 

Niece of Sebastian, Cathy Huggins, echoed a sentiment that most express when describing her life, saying how “she has spirit, enthusiasm, and always wants to give,” and that “no matter what you’re talking about, she has a contribution.”

The celebration was also a moment for Sebastian’s family from different generations to come together, as Huggins added that “I’m happy to see that a lot of my family and newfound cousins are on the Zoom. I’m really thrilled to see that you came out to celebrate and honor her, because she’s a gem.”

Sebastian’s long history as an educator and mentor in her hometown of Saint Kitts left a mark on many people, as she often strived to create opportunities for as many people as she could.

Longtime Educator, Etsu Bradshaw-Caines, attended the Basterre Girls’ School in Saint Kitts, where Bernice’s sister, Rupertha Sebastian, was the headmistress.

As a child, she and her father were also close family friends with Sebastian, which put her in a position to learn a great deal from Sebastian and her siblings, who played a vital role in shaping her character.

“I spent a lot of time at their home; it was my home as well. I owe my foundation of education to her,” Bradshaw-Caines said. “I’m an example of how she invested her life in other people’s children.”

As an exceptional student during her youth, Bradshaw-Caines mentioned how vocal Sebastian and her siblings were when it came to the trajectory of her educational path, adding that “they shaped my educational future and they shaped me as a student.”

“Looking at her, I would use the adjectives… kind, loving, supporting, providing, and she always had that smile on her face. She is pure,” Bradshaw-Caines said. “It tells me that these qualities, along with a proper diet, are the answers, as well as giving from the heart and not giving for recognition.”

Sebastian’s niece and caretaker, Marie Monique-Marthol, further reminded everyone of the educational nature of Sebastian, which left a blueprint for the many people who crossed paths with her.

“She wanted to teach everyone what she would learn; I encourage you all to be like Auntie Bern,” Marthol said.

“Her living encourages us and sets an example, so let’s continue to take care of one another.”