Jamaica's first Prime Minister, Sir Alexander Bustamante, and Lady Gladys Bustamante.

Daviot Kelly, Staff Reporter

It's almost as if the day was meant for her. March 8, International Women's Day, is also the birthday of a truly great woman, Lady Gladys Bustamante, the widow of Jamaica's first Prime Minister, Sir Alexander Bustamante.

This year carries a special significace for 'Lady B' (as she is affectionately known), as she will be celebrating a milestone - her 95th year.

As in more recent years, the grande dame will be celebrating her big day at her Stony Hill home with relatives and a few close friends. Among those who will be celebrating with her are goddaughter Evelyn Sangster-Barnes (who never misses this occasion), as well as Opposition Leader Bruce Golding and wife Lorna.

Jamaicans will be pleased to know that despite her age, Lady Bustamante is pain-free and still cheerful, according to her caregivers.

More than a wife

Lady Bustamante was more than just Sir Alexander's wife. Along with the late National Hero, she spearheaded the movement to improve the plight of working conditions for workers following the labour uprisings of 1938. She was also a dedicated member of the Jamaica Labour Party and an administrator at the Bustamante Industrial Trade Union.

Did you know that in her heyday, Lady B was quite notorious at the wheel of her car?

And, when she was up and about, she loved to spend weekends at the popular SuperClubs resorts on the north coast.