Ambassador - Mrs. Idalee Scott

By Shakir Khan

Always wearing a cute smile and soft spoken, Mrs. Idalee is well known here on Cayman Brac. She was born on 30/08/1941, in the Creek area. In 1958, she married Edmund Scott of Watering Place.

Mrs. Idalee commenced her education at age 7. She studied diligently for the Jamaica Local Examinations. She also worked at Blackie’s Haberdashery Shop for a few years. It was there she met her husband Edmund. With that cute smile she said to me, “I got married at 16, you know, Mr. Khan.” Her husband was a noted craftsman, skilled with his hands.

In 1970’s she became a self- employed businesswoman, marketing the items crafted by her husband. She told me that she was very appreciative of a then high school teacher who assisted her with speaking Spanish. This helped greatly with interacting with cruise ship passengers. As these times slowed she began selling clothes and shoes in her shop. She became popular with this as her wide variety and affordable prices created a clientele that would sustain her for many years. As time progressed she ventured into the floral business.

“You are a Christian Mrs. Idalee, tell me about your life,” insisted Mr Khan

“I grew up with a sound background of Christianity. I believe that Jesus Christ died for my sins. That’s my mission to share this with as many who would listen. I love and enjoy singing at church and other events where I am asked to do so. Currently, I attend the Hillside Chapel on the Bluff.”

Mrs. Idalee enjoys cooking especially her own food. She is not one to eat out on any regular basis.

“How did you become the Ambassador for this year’s Elder Persons Month?”

“I received a call Mrs. Annie Rose, who outlined to me what this was all about. At first I didn’t believe that I was capable of doing this because I am committed to attending to my ailing daughter. However, since starting, it has been a wonderful experience. In the opening ceremony on Grand Cayman I was really blown away by all that took place. In fact, Mr. Khan I met friends there that I hadn’t seen for many, many years. I am hoping to represent the Sister Islands with distinction.”

“What would you like to see improved with this Concept?”

“I would like to see the opening function take place on Cayman Brac and that folks from Grand Cayman come here more regularly. There can also be some programmes undertaken that would help the elderly with their social life.”

Mrs. Idalee and her deceased husband have three children, Burman, Colette and Marva, as well, as seven grandchildren.