LongeviQuest is delighted to report that Gilbert “Bertie” Ellis, the oldest living man in Belize, celebrated his 107th birthday on 24 September 2023. According to the celebratory post by the local restaurant hosting his birthday celebration, he was surrounded by his love family on his special day, which was filled with laughter, joy, and delicious food.
Ellis was born on 24 September 1916. He had 19 children, most of whom live in the United States. In 1936, he started working for the Santiago Castillo company and retired in 1981 after 45 years. Ellis started as an entry-level laborer and worked his way up to chief warehouse keeper. In 1967, Ellis was appointed Justice of the Peace and served as chairman of the Social Welfare Board for four years. He also chaired the Rent Assessment Board. Another of Ellis’s accomplishments was serving as the first president of the Harmony Housing Association, which was formed in the 1950s with 15 members.
He gained fame in the Belizean community as a cricketer, both as a batter and a bowler. In 1938, he became the captain of the Rovers cricket team, and he played for that team for four years before moving on to the Sussex team. During his time as an active athlete, Ellis also became the first president of the Amateur Boxing Association and the captain of a domino team. He was later inducted into the Cricket Hall of Fame. Even after he stopped playing sports, Ellis remained involved in sports management and administration.
LongeviQuest sends our warmest congratulations to Mr. Gilbert “Bertie” Ellis and his family. We wish you good health and happiness.