Dr Bertram McPhee Celebrating 100th Birthday
Dr George Bertram McPhee, a physician whose life and career has spanned medicine, military service, golf, the arts and community leadership, is celebrating his 100th birthday.
Born on June 19, 1926, Dr McPhee is known for his infectious sense of humour and practised general medicine and surgery for more than 60 years, including time at a clinic in Freeport, Bahamas.
In Bermuda, he managed the geriatric unit at King Edward VII Memorial Hospital, served as a consultant to the Minister of Health, worked at the Brown-Darrell Clinic and visited nursing homes. He continued making house calls until the age of 93.
His contributions to healthcare were recognised with numerous awards, including the Efficiency Decoration and an M.B.E. from Queen Elizabeth II.
Dr McPhee also served in the Bermuda Regiment as a Medical Officer from 1963 to 1983, retiring with the rank of major. Among the highlights of his military career was leading the Honour Guard during Queen Elizabeth II’s visit to Bermuda in 1976.
Away from medicine, golf has been a lifelong passion. In 1973, he became the first person of colour admitted to the Mid Ocean Club.
Family members recall evenings spent practising under the moonlight at Ocean View golf course.
A long-time member of the Anglican Cathedral, Dr McPhee has served as a congregant, Reader and Vestry Member. His renowned speaking ability earned him the nickname “The Voice of God” at the Cathedral.
His interests have also extended to the arts, music and literature. As an actor, he appeared in productions including “Galileo” and a historical play at Verdmont Estate.
Dr McPhee attended Howard University and Sir George Williams College before graduating from McGill University School of Medicine in 1953. He has been a member of the Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity since 1946 and served as president of its Bermuda Alpha chapter.
After completing his medical training, he moved to Bermuda with his late wife, Gloria Darrell McPhee. He has two children, Kevin and Karen, along with grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He is married to Gloria Smith, whom he wed in 2019.
“36, 500 days around the sun is like breaking a sports record that has stood for decades,” Gloria Smith told Bernews.
“He has outlasted trends and seen history unfold, always staying true to his values.”
“My husband is a phenomenal Doctor, and still the sweetest human I have ever known.
“He has never stopped making me feel like the Luckiest Woman alive.
“He would be my first choice every time.”
A comment from the family, read: “For our family, Dr McPhee’s 100th birthday is a celebration of a life defined by service, joy, and love – a milestone not just for our family, but for an entire community.
“Everywhere we go, people stop to share a memory, a laugh, or an example of his kindness. To us, he is the heart of every gathering.
“His sense of humour, larger-than-life personality, and raucous laugh fill our hearts with joy.
“Dr McPhee’s mind remains sharp as a tack. He chimes in with wise insights-even in the midst of our most intricate conversations.”
Dr McPhee’s great-grandchildren added: “[Great] Grandaddy always makes us smile. We love his jokes, his hugs, listening to his stories, and celebrating special days together.”
