Coast mourns death of beloved Tweni couple

Much-loved South Coast couple, Murray (67) and Julie (60) Ross were found dead in their Umtentweni home last Saturday, August 28.

The tragic, shocking news sparked an outpouring of grief as the community mourns the untimely death of two wonderful, popular people.

Port Shepstone Saps spokesman, Captain Petros Mpinge, said the couple was found with stab wounds in their home at about noon.

“It is alleged that the domestic worker had received a call to come and assist in offloading goods after shopping. However, on arrival she noticed the car parked in the yard with the doors open. She started taking items into the house. When she entered the house she discovered the deceased lying on the floor,” said Mpinge.

He said she then reported this to the neighbours who called the police. “They were pronounced dead at the scene,” said Mpinge. “The initial investigation revealed that unknown suspects forced open a burglar guard to gain entry. The house was completely ransacked.”

Mpinge yesterday said that no arrests had been made yet, but that investigations by Port Shepstone Saps into a case of murder were ongoing.

Both long-time residents on the coast, Murray was an accountant and Julie a qualified nurse.

They were actively involved in various aspects of life on the coast over the years, especially sport.

Murray was an honorary life member of Port Shepstone Country Club (PSCC) and someone who particularly enjoyed golf and bowls.

Julie did her training at Addington Hospital and was excellent at her job.

She had been working at Mbango Retirement Village and Association Care Centre on an ad hoc basis and was loved by the residents.

She was also a talented bowler, picking up the sport quickly and winning the prestigious Kingfisher Bowling Association’s Novice Singles title.

Ryan Ringo, chairman of PSCC, said Murray and Julie were pillars in the community as well as fundamental to the club’s success and survival today.

“I had the luxury of sitting with Murray on the executive, and with his assistance, we survived our first lockdown. Julie was always a breath of fresh air. They will be sorely missed, and we extend our condolences and deepest sympathy to all their family and friends in this tragic time,” he said.

Family of Murray and Julie have arrived from around the country and overseas, including their children Kerry and Craig.

There is to be a private memorial service later this week, by invitation only, due to Covid-19 regulations.

There will also be a function honouring their memory at Port Shepstone Country Club this Friday at 14:00.

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