BY STEVE OKELO

By the time you turn 100 years old
you might think that you’ll only have a few friends left. However, that was not
the case for Seventh-day Adventist Doreen Clement.
On Sunday 9 March, friends, relatives and well-wishers gathered excitedly at
the Livermead Hotel, Torquay, United Kingdom, to celebrate and give thanks for
a life well lived.

In the reception room, a table at the left showcased a letter sent and signed by the Queen congratulating Doreen on
her milestone. Looking across the crowd one could’ve
questioned how this quiet but warm lady of few words could bring so many people
together.

The gathering included members of
the Adventist Church in Torquay as well as a whole club of ladies from a local
Methodist group. Lrumana Schulz from Germany came saying that
she was "determined not to miss this occasion even though it was a long
and tiring journey." David, a nephew from Minnesota, told a story from his
boyhood memory of Clement's well trained dog who was selected for a TV show.

South England Conference Treasurer
Earl Ramharacksingh and his secretary, Pauline Peck, drove down from Watford to
honor Doreen. Ramharacksingh delivered short remarks and a signed card from
several Adventist leaders within in the British Isles: Bertil Wiklander
(Trans-European Division), Ian Sweeney (British Union Conference), Sam Davis
(South England Conference), Lorance Johnson (North England Conference),
and John Surridge, David Neal and Bernie Holford from Wales, Ireland,
and the Scottish Mission.

Asked what characterizes her life
over the years, Clement responded, “I
don’t worry.” She certainly had no worries as she
celebrated surrounded by friends, enjoying afternoon tea, and reliving memories
of a remarkable life.

District pastor, Ian Lorek
concluded the day with a wonderful prayer wishing Doreen God's watch care for
the years to come.