By Melina Etches, Cook Islands News
Elle Tetuanui Emily Dyer-William-Ellis credits prayers as her 'secret' to a long life. Photo: Cook Islands News / Rohan Ellis
Elle Tetuanui Emily Dyer-William-Ellis, the oldest living Cook Islander, celebrated her 105th birthday this week surrounded by family in Auckland, New Zealand.
Born on 26 September 1920 in the village of Taunganui, Atiu, Emily is described as vibrant and remarkable, with a strong faith in God.
She says prayer has been her lifelong strength and her secret to longevity.
Her milestone was marked with her daughter Tetuanui Florence, son and former Manihiki MP George Frederick Ellis, and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren who travelled from New Zealand, Australia and the Cook Islands to be with her.
Emily's parents were John Dyer, who worked for government, and Matai Louis Brell. She had three brothers: John Dean, Matatia Dean and Ruru Dean. Her maternal grandparents were Louis Brell and Anne-Marie of Manihiki.
Adopted as a baby by her aunt Tetuanui and her husband Abela William on Manihiki, Emily grew up in a loving home before later marrying George Ellis Sr. She raised her family between the Cook Islands and New Zealand, where she has lived for many years.
Though she misses her island home, Emily says she remains content in Auckland, where she continues to live independently and keep close to her faith.
Cook Islands News has previously recorded interviews with Emily's grandson Rohan Ellis to preserve her extraordinary life story - one marked by resilience, devotion and the blessings of family.
"When I eat, I pray, when I go to bed I pray, when I wake up in the morning I pray," Emily said. "I think that's my secret."
-This article was first published by Cook Islands News.
