Kewpie Nursery School’s Lettie retires after 4 decades
The assistant at Kewpie Nursery School has retired after 40 years of service.
In a heartfelt farewell, Lettie Gumede (63), better known as Miss Kewpie, said goodbye to Kewpie Nursery School in Verwoerdpark after an incredible 40-year journey.
She joined the school in 1984 and now leaves behind a legacy of passion, dedication, and love for the children she cared for.
Lettie worked at the school and also at the after-school centre.
She always ran errands for the school and drove with to pick up the children at the primary schools.
Her journey was not just a job; it was a calling.
“We were a family, from the staff to the parents. It never felt like work,” said Lettie.
For her, seeing the growth and achievements of the children was the most rewarding part of her job.
“This was my other home, and I am so sad to go and leave this all behind. I will forever cherish every moment I had at the school.”
Lettie looks forward to a new chapter in Brits, where she plans to nurture a garden and raise chickens.
“I am going to live in my house. It is next to my mother’s house.”
The owners of Kewpie Nursery School, Jan and Magda Niemand, fondly recall the unique deal they made when acquiring the school.
“When we bought the school, we bought Lettie with it,” they said.
“She was a jack of all trades and helped wherever and whenever. Goodbyes are never easy. Lettie was part of the puzzle, and now our puzzle is incomplete. We wish Lettie well with her retirement,” said Jan and Magda.
Lettie also extended gratitude to the owners, saying, “I am looking for better words than ‘thank you’ because thank you does not feel enough. You were like my brother and sister.
“Also, thank you to Neil, who ensured there was never a dull moment at work.
“To the parents and children who shared the journey with me, I express a heartfelt appreciation,” she said.
“To all the parents and children, thank you. Thank you, Kewpie, for all these wonderful years,” Lettie concluded.
