Congratulations to Dr. Dorothy Matthews-Paynter, who recently celebrated and is still celebrating her 100th birthday. Dr Matthew Paynter is a highly respected Bermudian trailblazer, professional hairdresser and beautician, businesswoman, entrepreneur, and community leader.
Last week, Premier David Burt, Minister David Burch and Senator Lindsay Simmons honoured the centenarian with her family and students at Victor Scott Primary School.
Dorothy started hairdressing out of her home just after World War 11. In 1952, she decided to go overseas because she wanted to learn how to do the hairstyles of the day. She studied cosmetology and hairdressing at Apex College in New York City. Dr. Dorothy Matthews-Paynter is widely esteemed as the “Queen B” of Bermuda’s Beautician. She is Bermuda’s first certified trichologist, a specialist in hair and scalp diseases. In the early 1970s, Dr Matthews-Paynter opened her beauty shop, Dottie’s Unisex Beauty Center, where she still does hair today.
Dr. Matthews received a PhD in Cosmetology in 1976 and was honoured by the Bronner Brothers Corporation at their Annual International Beauty Show in Atlanta, Georgia. At the age of 75 was awarded the Queen’s Certificate for her community service and the cut-a-thon she held as a community fundraiser for over fifty years.
When asked what keeps her going, Dr. Matthews-Paynter said her faith in God and keeping busy. Dr Matthews -Paynter, mother to four and a grandmother to 13, great-grandmother to 20, and loved by many.
Congratulations and best wishes Dr. Matthews-Paynter.