Longford lady celebrates her 100th birthday in South Africa

Beryl Boyers, who was born on October 18, 1923 in Longford will celebrate her 100th birthday next Wednesday in Cape Town, South Africa.

Beryl is the youngest of the three daughters of Dr Hedley Boyers and Alicia Anne Fee, both members of prominent Longford families of the time.

She grew up in the family home in Main Street, and was a full time boarder at Sligo High School, before attending the Alexandra College in Dublin to complete a secretarial course.

Her parents and sisters, Doreen (Lothian) and Helen (Turner), were active members of the golf club.

Beryl met her future husband, Patrick Joseph, of Galway, when he moved to work for Cameron’s Outfitters in Longford, after completing his apprenticeship in Carlow. They both enjoyed table tennis and social evenings at the Church Hall.

Patrick moved to then Southern Rhodesia in 1951 and Beryl followed in 1953. They were married at a ceremony at the Central Presbyterian Church. They had three children, Trevor, Alison and Helen.

The two had successful careers, and were active in the vibrant Irish expat community, and enjoyed the outdoor life that the country offered.

Due to deteriorating conditions in the new Zimbabwe, Pat and Beryl relocated to Cape Town, South Africa in 1981, to new beginnings.

Together, they enjoyed many trips to Ireland, visiting close and extended family and life long friends.

Beryl was widowed in 2009, and now resides at the St James Retirement Hotel. She maintained her independence, and drove her own car until the age of 96.

Always an active person, she belonged to the local croquet club and exercise gym, and participated in line dancing up until Covid curtailed such activities. She still enjoys her daily walks in the area, living across the road from the sea.

Trevor and Helen live close by and visit her regularly. Alison and her husband now live in Dublin.

There will be a family gathering with friends and fellow residents to celebrate the occasion.