Obituary: Reverend May Laban

Reverend May Laban of the Anglican Church of Southern Africa, the first South African Indian woman priest in the country, died on May 3.

Laban (71) suffered a heart attack while visiting family in China.

She was also the first woman archdeacon of Pietermaritzburg, the first woman rector at St Paul’s Church in Durban, and the first woman archdeacon of Durban.

She was a much-loved priest, whom most of her congregation referred to as “Mamma May”.

Before taking the cloth, Laban was a teacher for 22 years.She was the priest at Christ Church in Overport at the time of her death.

Claudette Sigamoney, a friend, said Laban was her spiritual leader who journeyed with her through turbulent times. “She was a mother figure to me. I became a lay minister in the Anglican Church because of her guidance. She helped me when my sons were in hospital in ICU and when they died.”

Upon hearing of Laban’s death, people took to Facebook to express their sadness.

Lalitha Singh wrote: “May Laban was one in a million with a pure heart, who didn’t pick and choose who to be with. Her humbleness towards our family and her loving spirit will always be with us. I remember all the good times at Sunday school and going to Hulston Road to visit.

“We only have the best memories of a beautiful soul. I pray the departed soul gains the highest form of moksha. From the entire Samsunder family, our deepest sympathies, and sincere condolences to the family.”

Taryn Janine Powys described Laban as one of the most beautiful people, inside and out.

“I cannot believe that my beautiful priest, Rev May, is gone. I am absolutely bereaved and shattered. I will miss her counsel, her love but most of all, her effervescent and joyful spirit. She made everyone feel special, acknowledged, and welcomed all in her midst.

“She walked in the way of Jesus, essentially the most down-to-earth, cool, and approachable person with so much love to offer everyone. She is the cornerstone of the Anglican community in Durban and lived her life giving honour and glory to God.

“I will miss you forever Rev May and you will remain an unforgettable and indelible part of my life and all my memories. You gave the most brilliant sermons but most of all I will remember our conversations which have inspired me so much. May your soul rest in peace and rise in glory,” said Powys.

Bishop Rubin Philip of the Anglican Diocese of KwaZulu-Natal described Laban as the most gifted, outstanding, caring and amazing priest he had ever met. He said he was her bishop of the Anglican Church before she became a priest.

“She reached out to the sick and families who lost loved ones. She was a tremendous pastor who really cared for people. She was a gifted preacher and one of the best preachers we had. When she preached you could hear a pin drop because everybody listened.

“I knew her since I was a young priest from about 25 years ago. I admired her for her dedication and integrity,” said Philip.