Veteran teacher turns 95

Ms Joan Bellew, a resident of Rand Aid’s Ron Smith Care Centre, turned 95 on May 9.

She and late husband Mr Phil Bellew met when they were students at Rhodes and for decades they worked in education, both in Zimbabwe and South Africa.

After retiring, they worked for a decade helping preschoolers in an informal settlement in Gonubie near East London. They were good friends of Mr Ian Smith, the former prime minister of then-Rhodesia. Ms Bellow said he was a good man who did not forget his friends when he became a successful politician. “He had no airs or graces but was simply a good man who took some wrong turns,” said Ms Bellew.

Ms Bellew and her husband lived in Zimbabwe from 1955 until 1977 when they returned to South Africa. Their next long-term home was Gonubie, just outside East London, where they stayed for 20 years. They had three children, Anne, Louise and John. They had been married for 59 years when Phil died.

After staying on in their Gonubie cottage for another six years, Ms Bellew relocated to Gauteng to be closer to her son.

“It is hard to think that God still wants me here, perhaps to do some good work? I shall try my best to be a good person, as an example to my children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren,” she said.

Her birthday was celebrated by family and friends, many of whom are fellow Ron Smith Care Centre residents, who wished the bright-eyed birthday girl well.

Her birthday coincided with the care centre’s Sr Tando Ncube’s birthday and she was present to share in the fun.

“My wonderful daughter-in-law Heather brought cakes, savouries and drinks – unfortunately, no champagne. I was so pleased that so many people came to wish me happy birthday, including my driver, Mr Lucas Mosoma, who has been with me for seven years,” said Ms Bellew.