IN his illustrious 101 years, Subrayen Lutchmanna Perumal Naicker, affectionately known as Frankie Naicker, has seen the world change in ways that few can ever comprehend. Born in 1924, he lived through the Great Depression, World War II, the rise and fall of apartheid and the dawn of the age of technology. Over the decades, he witnessed cities transform, cultures evolve and generations form and throughout it all, he has never wavered in his principles of religion, discipline and family.

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On March 12, Frankie, the oldest resident of Merebank, turned 101-years-old, a milestone that reflects a life of countless memories.

Family:

He married his best friend and soulmate, Rathamani Naicker, in 1950. Their union, based on love and friendship, lasted until her death at the age of 66. They brought up a wonderful family of four children. His firstborn, Sivalingum (74), resides in Toronto, Canada. His daughter, Selvie (73), resides in Pietermaritzburg. Sadly, his third-born child, Gonaseelan, died in an accident in 1992. His youngest, Nimi (68), resides in Isipingo. Frankie has also been blessed with 11 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

Although he survived most of his generation, the love and support of his family have been a source of inspiration and happiness.

“I love spending time with my family. It brings me so much joy when we are all together,” he said.

Religion and hobbies:

A believer with a strong faith, Frankie has always prioritised his religion in his life. A devout follower of Sri Sathya Sai Baba, he believes that God’s blessings have brought him to this era of miracles. His travels have also played an important role in shaping his spirituality.

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During his trip to Canada, he attended a Sri Sathya Sai Baba service, strengthening his faith and devotion even further. One experience he holds dear is a trip to India to visit Sri Sathya Sai Baba’s ashram, an experience that he terms “profoundly life-changing.”

He also traveled to Mauritius to visit his cousins and get more insight into his family history. His father, who was born in Mauritius, had owned property there once, presenting an intensely personal touch to his travels.

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Frankie remains a firm advocate of keeping the body physically fit. He began karate and judo at the age of 15, a sport not just designed to make him physically strong, but which also gave him discipline and focus that he carried with him all his life. Not one to remain idle, Frankie took to gardening when he left the karate space. Tending to his plants has become a new source of relaxation and fulfilment.

Working life:

Frankie spent 30 years in the Perthshire Hotel in downtown Durban, where he worked as a host and chauffeur. He dealt with people from all walks of society, an experience he thoroughly enjoyed.

“I used to be tasked with going and fetching guests from the airport and bringing them to the hotel. I also used to look after the staff,” said Frankie.

Later in life, he moved to a service profession as a driver for doctors and patients at the hospitals. He spent his working days driving doctors, nurses, and patients between King Edward, Addington, Wentworth and Clairwood hospitals. Frankie stayed in this role until his much-deserved retirement.

Now at 101-years-old, he is a collection of timeless memories and moments.

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