Mark Beckford, Gleaner Writer

Centenarian and Gleaner retiree Ethel Telfer (seated) blows out the candles on her birthday cake while (from left) great-grandson Jason Ricketts; the Reverend Alton Tulloch; The Gleaner's Nurse Ivy White; grandson Horace Hale; granddaughter-in-law Kemi Hale and family friend 'Ms. Craig' applaud her on her 100th birthday milestone at her home in Norman Gardens, St. Andrew, yesterday. Ms. Telfer worked at The Gleaner for 39 years. - Ricardo Makyn/Staff Photographer

Seventy years ago Ethel Telfer embarked on a relationship with the Gleaner Company when she applied for a job as a maid sometime in 1936. Yesterday, however, The Gleaner celebrated another milestone with Ms. Telfer as she celebrated her 100th birthday at her home in Norman Gardens.

Ms. Telfer, who was surrounded by family, friends and former co-workers was fêted at a small ceremony held to recognise her achievement.

Dressed smartly in a pink-striped dress, Ms. Telfer shared memories of her time at The Gleaner and life in general. Born in Mount Lebanus, Trinityville, St. Thomas, in 1906, she lived in the district until the age of 20 when she moved to town. After doing sewing for a while, Ms. Telfer started her relationship with The Gleaner in 1936 at age 30.

The centre of his universe

Horace Hale, Ms. Telfer's grandson, called her the centre of his universe and the source of his drive and ambition.

Mr. Hale said that, as a young man, he spent a lot of time in his grandmother's kitchen at The Gleaner and had a first-hand look at how she inspired many individuals with whom she came in contact.

"When I was 11 and 12, I spent a lot of time in her kitchen at The Gleaner and a number of messengers came through and she was always encouraging them when they had a problem realising their dream and quite a number of them have moved on," he said. "My grandmother's kitchen was the happening place at The Gleaner."