There were emotional scenes at the SAVF Jubileum Old Age Home on Friday morning as long-serving staff member Marietjie Cronje bid farewell after three decades of dedicated service.

An emotional farewell

Cronje, who is retiring after 30 years, will be relocating to Bloemfontein to be closer to her children. Committee members and colleagues gathered to honour her contribution, with many struggling to hold back tears as they said their goodbyes.

Widely regarded as synonymous with the old age home, Cronje has become a well-known and respected figure in the Vryheid community over the years, someone whose name is almost inseparable from the institution she served so faithfully.

A legacy of love and care

The official proceedings were led by Buks Maree, who delivered a heartfelt speech centred on love. “If one had to describe Marietjie in a single word, it would be love. She lived it every day in how she cared for the residents,” he said.

Her journey at the home began modestly when she worked part-time at CDM. Her dedication and natural ability soon stood out, and she was invited to assist at the old age home a few mornings a week. What started as a small role steadily grew into a full-time position, culminating in her appointment as manager of the facility.

Tributes from colleagues

Colleagues spoke highly of Cronje, praising her compassion and commitment to the elderly. “She always put the residents first and fought for what they needed, even when it wasn’t easy,” one colleague shared. Another added, “The changes she made here will be felt for many years to come.”

As a token of appreciation, Cronje was presented with a beautifully handcrafted wooden tray, a meaningful gift symbolising the care and gratitude of those she worked alongside.

Looking ahead

In her own words, Cronje expressed deep appreciation for the farewell. “I feel so blessed and honoured to be remembered in this way. I will miss everyone and everything here dearly, but I am also looking forward to the future, and perhaps a little less stress,” she said.

While her absence will be deeply felt by residents of the home, many believe her impact extends far beyond its walls. Cronje will not only be missed by the elderly she cared for, but by the broader Vryheid community who came to know and respect her over the years.

Although she is stepping away from her role, Cronje is far from slowing down. She plans to remain active by assisting her son-in-law with administrative work in Bloemfontein.

Her departure marks the end of an era for the home, with many describing her legacy as one of care, dedication and unwavering support for the elderly community.

The news provided to you in this link comes to you from the editorial staff of the Vryheid Herald, a sold newspaper distributed in the Vryheid area.