Josephine Rhymer passes at age 97

One of the British Virgin Islands’ longest lasting and most celebrated couples has been split physically, with the passing of 97-year-old Josephine Rhymer.

Mrs Rhymer, who is the wife of 100-year-old William, passed away yesterday, April 12.

The couple’s wedding anniversary, each year, attracted much celebration and media attention.

Sharie DeCastro, who is one of the couple’s grand-children, yesterday hailed the late Mrs Rhymer as the queen of the family and an amazing woman.

In a post on social networking site Facebook, she said: “My Mama took her last breath and earned her wings today (Wednesday). Mama Josephine Rhymer, you will always be my definition of woman and wife. I will continue to live each day hoping to be a reflection of the amazing woman that you modeled for us all to follow.”

“You fought the good fight, you kept the faith, you finished the race! You lived 97 long years on this earth and you have left your mark and legacy. We miss you already. How do you tell your 100 year old Papa that his wife of 76 years is gone to meet her maker? Sigh!” DeCastro said.

Several other tributes have been posted on social media by relatives and friends of Mrs Rhymer.

The couple has 10 children.