Ernest Folkes. (Photo: Nicole Webb-Ploche)

by Lesonie Walker

Ernest Folkes, a native of Jamaica, anticipates celebrating his 102nd birthday this summer. The former bookkeeper, general contractor, and farmer moved to Florida 10 years ago and joined Maranatha Church in Miami Gardens.

Folkes was born in Alexandria, St. Ann, Jamaica on August 5, 1909. His only sibling, a brother, lived into his late 90s. In 1985, he lost his wife and co-laborer of 49 years. The Folkes’ parented three children, two by adoption. He remarried in 1991, and his second wife passed away in 2005.

While a teenager, Folkes was introduced to the Adventist message by a colporteur and a lay preacher. Baptized in 1929, he has faithfully served God in many church capacities as a deacon, Sabbath School teacher, ordained elder, and member of the East Jamaica Conference Committee.

For years, Folkes would ride his bicycle more than 50 miles each way in order to lead a fledgling congregation in Sabbath services. In addition to being credited with building many churches in Jamaica, he is fondly remembered for providing low-cost housing to struggling local residents on lands which he had acquired with his own funds.

Folkes has a great sense of humor, a terrific memory, attends church regularly, and still likes to read. He does not take credit for his long life; yet, declares, “Hard work, a great diet, and a Godly life are great, but ultimately, long life is in the hands of God.” He is still enjoying his long walk with God.