‘Pinkie’ leaves behind a trail of inspiration
Life lived purposefully taken too soon
Born: May 5 1969 Died: November 4 Funeral: Tomorrow, at 21038 Zone 5 Diepkloof, Soweto Burial: At the local cemetery
As a former principal of Thembu Primary School in Pimville, Soweto, after retiring in March, I mourn Lydia Noluthando Nyangiwe (nee Stuurman).
I was her principal at Thembu Primary and we became close.
She was a respectful and hardworking pupil. I also enjoyed working with her when she later became an administrator at the school.
Nyangiwe, who was otherwise popular known as Pinkie, was born in 1969 in Rodana in Lady Frere, Eastern Cape, before moving to Diepkloof, Soweto.
She died suddenly on November 4. She was always mindful of the fact that she was duty-bound. Through her interactive approach she demonstrated her best talent in our first group of Grade Rs in 2002, in sports and music.
Lydia loved and believed that education is the key that opened many doors. She lived a very impactful life in our school and community and always strove for excellence.
She was an inspiration to parents as the secretary of the school governing body and the face of the school.
She motivated and built confidence in our parents on admission processes.
She took particular attention to school term plans and would unfold the forthcoming events and duly prepare for them to avoid missing deadlines.
I would appreciate her minutes and workshop reports as she paid painstaking attention to detail when she reported to staff and parents.
Her administrative skills were identified by the district and neighbouring schools in Pimville/Klipspruit as she shared her good practice with them.
Lydia, who was very humble and strong-willed, was sustained by her loving husband and her children who became pillars of strength.
She had a passionate commitment to her family and in-laws and radiated with pride when she spoke about them.
Her memories will forever renew and inspire those whose lives she touched.
Lydia leaves behind her husband and six children, her mother and the extended family.
Farewell Lydia my friend, may you find your place among those humble saints and let God’s light perpetually shine on you and your family. May your soul rest in peace.