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For centenarian Sybil Berry King, Christmas will forever hold a special place in her heart, not because of the gifts she has received over the years, but because it is the season for giving.

Born December 12, 1923, the strong and agile elderly woman told THE WEEKEND STAR that during this time of the year, she usually opened up her home to share a grand meal and the Christmas spirit, especially with the less fortunate.

"I always love to give to the poor here in Mandeville, especially around Christmas time. When I cook Christmas dinner I always invite some members of the church to have dinner and also people in the neighbourhood," Berry King said.

She added that her favourite meals at Christmas time are fried fish, ham with rice and peas, potato salad and fried plantains on the side, all washed down with a cool glass of sorrel. She said that one of her favourite Christmas traditions during her earlier years was baking Christmas cake with her neighbour and friend, who she could always count on to lend a helping hand.

"I didn't usually have much time to prepare for Christmas, but my neighbour, who is also my church sister, she would come after I leave work on Christmas Eve, or maybe two or three days before Christmas she would come to me help me and we would talk, laugh and bake cake," Berry King said excitedly as she recalled the memory.

Berry King, who has one biological daughter, one stepson, and nine grandchildren, credits her long life to God. She expressed the belief that being a cheerful giver has always been her purpose on Earth, and she intends to continue giving as much as she can. She quoted Psalms 41:1, which says " Blessed is he who considers the poor; The Lord will deliver him in time of trouble," adding that one should never forget to give to those less fortunate.

"The Lord has blessed me because I do what He wants me to do. I believe that the reason I was born anyhow is that I should stretch my hand to the poor...and Christmas is for giving," said Berry King.