BIOGRAPHY

Violet Cave was born in Saint Michael, Barbados on 28 February 1909, the second daughter of Millicent Brewster and Aubrey Cave. She had three siblings: Louise Richards, Ivy Dudley, and Cyril Cave. She moved to the Republic of Panama at the age of five, where her father worked on the construction of the Panama Canal. She completed her high school education at the Panama Canal Zone Secondary School and went on to work for the United States government in Panama. As a supervisor in the Commissary Department, she dedicated 37 years to her career before retiring. She moved to the United States a year after the Civil Rights Act was passed. She had a son, Noman.

A devout Catholic, she faithfully attended mass every Sunday, even in the care center where she spent her later years. She traveled extensively, visiting countries in Europe and Asia, and took great joy in entertaining her grandchildren with her cooking. She often prepared traditional Panamanian dishes, with her buttercream frosting and pineapple-filled cake being a family favorite.

Violet Cave passed away in New York City, on 3 March 2020, four days after her 111th birthday. She was survived by her son, five grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, and 18 great-great-grandchildren.

RECOGNITION

Her age was officially validated by LongeviQuest on 30 December 2024. The verification confirmed her claimed birthdate of 28 February 1909, which is supported by some evidence. However, her original birth registration indicates a birthdate of 8 March. However, it is possible that her birth was registered late, and to avoid a fine, her family stated she was a week younger.

ATTRIBUTION

* “Harlem woman celebrates 110th birthday” – FOX 5 New York, 28 February 2019

* Violet Cave Obituary – Unity Funeral Chapels

GALLERY