WATCH: Family and friends celebrate the life of Sanet Butler at Reading Country Club
From volunteering at school fundraisers and running a school tuck shop free of charge to opening her home to those in need, Sanet Butler’s life was defined by selfless service, compassion and unwavering love for others.
Family and friends gathered at Reading Country Club on July 1 to celebrate the life of 76-year-old Sanet Butler, who passed away on June 25 after a terminal illness.
Tributes shared by family and friends painted a picture of a woman whose greatest joy was serving others.
Whether it was caring for her family, supporting her community or offering a helping hand to someone in need, Sanet lived a life centred on kindness and compassion.
Her daughter, Michelle Pieterse, looked back on their family’s journey, recalling how they grew up in Glenvista before moving to Alberton at the beginning of 1994.
Michelle remembered her mother as someone who was always present, whether it was supporting school activities, cheering from the sidelines at sporting events or simply being there whenever her family needed her.
@albertonrecord Her daughter, Michelle Pieterse, looked back on their family’s journey, recalling how they grew up in Glenvista before moving to Alberton at the beginning of 1994. Full story on albertonrecord.co.za
Sanet dedicated countless hours to school fundraising initiatives while her children were at school.
She also volunteered her time by running the school tuck shop free of charge, always willing to serve wherever she was needed.
Although she was not involved with a formal charity organisation, helping others came naturally to her.
Her family said her home was always open to anyone who needed a place to stay, with some people living with the family for months while they found their feet.
She was known for her baking and cooking, with many remembering her famous milk tarts, savoury treats and the special meals that became part of family memories.
Michelle said her mother had played an important role in shaping the person she had become.
“My mom helped shape me into the person I am today,” she said.
Her daughter Yvette Nagel shared the impact her mother had on her life.
“Thank you is such a small word for so many things, but it is a glimpse of what I am trying to say. Thank you, Mom,” Yvette said.
@albertonrecord Her daughter Yvette Nagel shared the impact her mother had on her life. “Thank you is such a small word for so many things, but it is a glimpse of what I am trying to say. Thank you, Mom,” Yvette said. Full story on albertonrecord.co.za
Sanet’s grandchildren also shared memories of the special bond they had with her.
Mila remembered the comfort her grandmother brought into her life.
“Grandma is so, so, so special to me and to everyone. When I was unhappy, Grandma always made me feel better,” she said.
David Nagel reflected on the stories and lessons his grandmother shared.
“I miss Grandma’s stories and especially the funny stories and all the interesting stories too. Grandma taught me about so many things,” he said.
Michael Pieterse said he would always remember the special moments they shared.
@albertonrecord Family and friends gathered at Reading Country Club on July 1 to celebrate the life of 76-year-old Sanet Butler, who passed away on June 25 after a terminal illness. Tributes shared by family and friends painted a picture of a woman whose greatest joy was serving others. Full story on albertonrecord.co.za
“My favourite part of the day was listening to Grandma’s stories. I will always remember Grandma’s milk tart and those days when Grandma made us Coke floats,” he said.
Sanet’s kindness extended far beyond her family.
Martha, who worked with Sanet for 33 years, said their relationship evolved into that of mother and daughter.
@albertonrecord Martha, who worked with Sanet for 33 years, said their relationship evolved into that of mother and daughter. “I worked for Sanet for 33 years. She was a lovely person, kind and a shoulder to cry on.” She said Sanet was always there whenever she needed someone to talk to. Full story on albertonrecord.co.za
“I worked for Sanet for 33 years. She was a lovely person, kind and a shoulder to cry on.”
She said Sanet was always there whenever she needed someone to talk to.
“When I needed someone to talk to, she was there, and I was also there for her. She was a mother, and I was her daughter.”
Martha added that honesty was one of Sanet’s most treasured values.
“She loved people who are honest.”
Long-time family friend Willie Pretorius said Sanet had become like a second mother to her over the past four decades.
“You were like a mother alongside my own. I was blessed to have you in my life.”
Sanet was also remembered by Willie Pretorius, who described her as a special person who had a motherly presence in his life.
“You were like a mother alongside my own. I was blessed to have you in my life,” Willie said.
Friend Iris Mezker reflected on his 38-year friendship with Sanet.
“Thank you, my dear friend, for 38 years of unconditional friendship and love. Thank you for being the sister I chose and the blessing I never took for granted,” she said.
Maryke Sabbert also paid tribute to Sanet’s generous spirit.
“Auntie Sanet was one in a thousand. Her home and her heart were always open to others.”
Loved ones remembered Sanet’s love for sport, culture, music and meaningful conversations.
They said she had a way of making people laugh, think and feel welcomed.
Sanet leaves behind a legacy carried by her family, friends and the many people whose lives she touched.
She will be remembered as a loving mother, grandmother, friend and a woman whose kindness will continue to live on through those who knew her.
