Loss of a community champion mourned

The Christmas Fair Fund and Ballito community mourns the loss of former local, Maryderne Boyce (83), who passed away on June 22.

Boyce had been a well-known resident who spent some time at Maidstone before relocating to Ballito in 1965.

She was an avid baker, always producing delicious treats sold by the Christmas Fair Fund at the annual country fair, of which she was a member for 38 years.

Fund chairlady Gaby Lyle said she was saddened by the loss of Boyce, who relocated to the Cape in October to be closer to family.

“Maryderne was the star of the Christmas Fair team and also organised the annual bridge day, a popular event on the KZN social calendar,” said Lyle, who added that people would come from across the province for a morning of eats, tea and bridge.

Boyce was also an excellent player, never missing the bridge club’s Friday meets.

Before leaving the fund in recent years, Boyce made sure to pass on her baking knowledge so that Christmas puddings will continue to be a treat to look out for at the Christmas Country Fair.

Lyle said despite Boyce’s ill health, she still made every effort to stay in touch with the team and that her loss would be felt for some time.

“We have lost a very special person who really embodied the spirit of the Christmas Fair Fund,” Lyle concluded.

Boyce’s husband John said his wife loved being involved in social service activities and loved the local lifestyle among her many friends. He said Maryderne passed away after a long period of coping with a series of physical setbacks.

“She fought with resilience all the way,” he said.

A memorial service was held last Saturday at Constantia Funeral Home in Cape Town.

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