The King’s School West Rand (TKSWR) has announced the untimely passing of one of its valued staff members.
Berdine Swartz who taught at the nursery school passed away on Friday, 16 October.
The school’s marketing manager Michelle Dos Ramos said, “It is with sadness that we mourn the unexpected passing of teacher Berdine Swartz from our Nursery School. Our deep-felt condolences go to her daughter Danica, family and our King’s School family, learners and to our parents. You are in our thoughts and prayers.”
Michelle cited that the school will forever be grateful for the impact she had on many lives. “Teacher Berdine will be sorely missed. Rest in peace, dear Berdine,” she said, and quoted the book of Psalm 34:18. “The LORD is close to the broken-hearted …” to console the bereaved.
Those who knew Berdine took to Facebook to convey their messages of support, and some spoke about the good times they shared with her.
Adele Kincaid-Smith said: “Teacher Berdine was one of the best teachers I have ever met and my daughter absolutely loved her and Danica. She had so much passion for her job and was a ray of sunshine wherever she went. My heart is so sore but I know she is at peace with our Saviour in His loving arms.”
Manuela Cremona De Canha said: “Teacher Berdine was an amazing teacher, she taught our kids with passion, loved them like her own. An amazing woman full of love, God’s love showed through this amazing Lady. She will be sorely missed.”
Anna Maps Letlela reminisced: “When I started teaching in 2017, Teacher Berdine was my mentor. Her guidance revealed what I was really capable of. She was a hardworking woman and that energy rubbed off on me, hence I am where I am today. Thank you so much. May your soul rest in peace”.
Lastly, Natalie Salhab conveyed her condolences by posting, “My deepest condolences to you my dear Danica and your dearest sister. I’m very heartbroken to hear of the news. Your Mom was one of the kindest souls I can remember and always had such a beautiful smile and kindness that was very often missing from others.”
To honour Berdine’s life, the school has encouraged people to leave some flowers, special notes and photos at the nursery department during the course of this week.
