Oldest Virgin Islander, Ursula ‘Aunt Sula’ Krigger, Dies At 113

ST. THOMAS — Affectionately called “Aunt Sula”, Ursula Krigger was the oldest Virgin Islander alive before she passed on Thursday.

Mrs. Krigger was born April 22, 1902 in Estate Neltjeberg, St. Thomas, Danish West Indies. She was an educator by profession, starting her first teaching job at Bonne Resolution School on St. Thomas’ North Side.

The matriarch of both the Moolenaar and Krigger families was also recognized and honored by Senate Resolution 1804 on her 112th birthday by the 30th Legislature in ceremonies in the Earle B. Ottley Legislative Chambers. She was married to the late Laurence Krigger and had two sons, Alaric and Ashton, for whom she left her role as an educator to devote her time to their care. She had begun her teaching career at the tender age of 15, at the Moravian Church.

Mrs. Ursula “Aunt Sula” Krigger. Photo Credit: Virgin Islands Daily News.

Senator Janette Millin Young, a distant cousin of Mrs. Krigger, expressed her condolences and praised Aunt Sula, deeming her one of the territory’s culture bearers.

“The Virgin Islands has truly lost one of its greatest tradition bearers with the passing of Mrs. Eursula “Aunt Sula” Krigger at the age of 113,” Millin Young, Vice President of the 31st Legislature, said.

She added: “Death is never easy to accept and we join the community in expressing our prayers, sympathy and thoughts with all who mourn her. It is equally fitting and appropriate that we celebrate her long and purposeful life because she defied the odds and is an inspiration to both young and old Virgin Islanders.

“May those who mourn her draw upon her fine and inspiring qualities to ease their grief and may fond memories fill their hearts and help lessen the pain of her noteworthy passing.”

Senator Tregenza Roach also spoke highly of Mrs. Krigger, remembering her as astute politically and as someone who boasted a “lucid” and “vivid” remembrance of history.

“Mrs. Krigger has seen life in these Virgin Islands like no one else; she witnessed the changing of the guards on Transfer Day, the advent of VI Women’s suffrage, the progress to self government with the election of our first officials and every other major social and political achievement in our islands’ history,” Sen. Roach said. “Her personal milestones and blessings included the pleasure of sharing so much of her life experiences with generations of her family. Mrs. Krigger had very lucid and vivid remembrances of times gone by. She was also very politically astute and passionate about local affairs.”

He added: “I am very pleased that I had the honor of celebrating Aunt Sula’s life while she was with us, during the VI legislature’s tribute to her for her 112th birthday.” The Senator continued, “To her family and friends, I encourage you to find solace in the wonderful times shared with this great matriarch. Undoubtedly, your memories and the impact she had on the community, will be remembered. Her legacy has been passed on to her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and all those who shared a part of her life.

“My staff and I wish you peace and continued strength during this time of bereavement.”

Correction: September 9, 2015

A previous version of this story incorrectly spelled Mrs. Ursula Krigger’s name beginning with an “E”, because of wrong spelling information transmitted by Sen. Janette Millin Young’s office. The story has been updated with the correct spelling.

Feature Image: The late Mrs. Eursula “Aunt Sula” Krigger. 

Image Credit: The Virgin Islands Daily News.