Oldest Grenadian dies at 119  

Leonora Masima Noel

The tri-island state of Grenada, Carriacou and Petite Martinique has been plunged into mourning as its oldest citizen Leonora Massima Noel, who was 119 years old, has passed away and been recorded as a COVID-19 related death. 

Noel of L’Esterre in Carriacou, was hospitalised at the Princess Royal Hospital on September 13 after contracting COVID-19 and succumbed to the virus on September 24. 

Minister of Carriacou and Petite Martinique Affairs and Local Government, Kindra Maturine-Stewart, says her passing has thrown the entire island of Carriacou and Petite Martinique into deep shock. 

“She was well celebrated, well-known and well-loved. She was our gem, our national treasure.”  

Maturine-Stewart says for Noel to celebrate 119 years recently, it was a remarkable milestone for her. 

The minister says it is unfortunate she died as a result of COVID-19 as she (Noel) indicated to them on many occasions that she went through many trials including Hurricane Ivan and Hurricane Janet, but was not able to survive COVID-19. 

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Dr Keith Mitchell is also deeply saddened by the passing of the person believed to be Grenada’s oldest citizen. 

Receiving news of her passing, the Prime Minister said: “It is unfortunate that we are losing so many of our senior citizens to this dreaded disease. They are among the most vulnerable and we have to do our best to protect them from this virus. I pray that Sister Leonora finds eternal peace.”