Former deputy mayoress dies
Former honorary deputy mayoress of Benoni Dorothy Elizabeth Turner died on January 25, at the age of 81.
Having spent the greater part of her life in service to her family and community, Turner was well known in Benoni and an upstanding public figure during the 1980s and 1990s.
Her husband, Duggie Turner, was a town councillor, then served on the management committee before being elected deputy mayor.
During this time, the Rynfield resident worked tirelessly with her husband on community and social enhancement issues and was unfailingly at his side.
“If you knew her, you loved her,” said Candice Turner, Dorothy’s granddaughter.
“In her early years, she was a phenomenal swimmer and represented Eastern Province in swimming.”
Born Dorothy Hornby, in Port Elizabeth, she met Duggie in the “windy city” before moving to Benoni once they were married, in 1955.
Turner served as the secretary of the Benoni Boxing Club and Benoni City Football Club, alongside her husband, who was the chairman of the boxing club and owner of the football club.
Candice said her grandparents organised the first interracial soccer match at Willowmoore Park, in 1978.
“It was during apartheid and they invited Benoni United (a top ranked team from Daveyton) to play against their team, Benoni City Football Club,” Candice said.
“There was a lot of protest about them hosting the match, but they were adamant that the team should be allowed to play at Willowmoore Park and eventually managed to stage the match.
“It was the first time a team of colour had played at Willowmoore Park, as far as I know.”
Dorothy will be sorely missed by her husband of 61 years, Duggie, son Gavin, daughter Denise, daughter-in-law Sandy, son-in-law Steven, six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
“She will be forever remembered as a committed and loyal wife, mother and grandmother who devoted her life to her family,” Candice added.
“What a woman, what a sensational life.”
Candice said there will not be a funeral as Dorothy did not want anyone to mourn her death.
Instead, a wake, celebrating her life in the Irish tradition, will be held at the Turner’s residence in Rynfield.
Also read:
Northfield family says goodbye to Lorna Alice Schrieber
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