Linda Lewis has died

Former local councillor Linda Lewis was almost 80 years old when she died on April 11.

She was born on October 27, 1941.

Farewell messages poured in from those who knew and loved her.

DA political head in Johannesburg South Manny de Freitas said it was a great shock to hear of the passing of the former councillor.

“Ms Lewis died after battling with Alzheimer’s for the last 12 years. Linda, who was unofficially known as the dame of the South, was a councillor for many years. She served as a DA councillor from 2000 to 2006 under my leadership.

“She had a lot of institutional knowledge and was always ready to assist her colleagues. Linda leaves a great legacy who, although having a great work ethic, always ensured she had fun at the same time. Her smile and laughter were infectious, always lighting up a room whenever she walked in.

“You will be missed and never forgotten. May your rest in peace,” he said.

Her daughter, Patricia Lewis, wrote on Facebook: “Our hearts are shattered and as a family, we are devastated beyond what any words can ever describe.

“Our precious angel, adored, much-loved and respected mother and wife, Linda Lewis, has peacefully passed away. Her 12-year emotional roller coaster and lengthy battle with Alzheimer’s disease has finally come to an end.

“We are all very grateful that the end was painless and peaceful. We, the Lewis family, so appreciate all your love, support, messages, phone calls, concerns and patience throughout these past years, and, most of all, respecting our decision as a family to deal with this horrendous disease in total privacy. It was her wish and ours as a family too.

“We would never have ever been ‘ready’ to say goodbye to this incredible woman, in every aspect of her life, ever. Our hearts are broken, but yes, we are comforted in the knowledge that we will all be reunited with her and all of our loved ones again one day.

“Much love and heartfelt appreciation from us all.”

Julie Maule, the former news editor of Comaro CHRONICLE and Southern COURIER, said she met Linda Lewis about 23 years ago, not long after she began her career with Caxton South newspapers.

“As a local ward councillor, Linda was extremely passionate about the South of Johannesburg and issues which would directly impact the people in her ward, where she herself resided in Mondeor.

“She loved Mondeor, which she often described as a perfect place to live, nestled in-between hills and rocky land. When developers began to build on the ridge in Winchester Hills, bordering the Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve, she was very upset.

“As I became to know her as a friend and not just a councillor, if she knew I was in the Mondeor area covering a story she’d invite me to pop in for a cup of coffee, which was often accompanied by toast with grated cheese and biltong. We chatted about many things and she often spoke proudly of her daughter, Patricia, who at the time was a popular singer.

“My memory of her is of a very gracious lady, well educated, beautifully spoken and always elegantly dressed. Linda was undoubtedly one of the South’s best-known women who will be remembered by many for the good work she did. She will be missed.”

Some of the messages from Patricia Lewis’s Facebook page:

Jane Deakin Vermaak

Sincere condolences on the passing of your mom. I always remember her as an elegant lady who was such a part of the Mondeor community.

Duane Basson

Dear Patricia. My sincere condolences to you and your family. Your mom was an incredible woman with impeccable integrity, and she had a heart of gold, a true role model! May she finally rest in peace. The South has lost one of its golden legends.

Tracy Lawton

Sincere condolences, Patricia Lewis. So sorry for the loss of such a strong, amazing lady, your mom. Wishing you strength to get through this sad time.

Nicky Austin

Oh Patricia, I am so, so sorry for your immense loss. Your mom will always be remembered as such a strong, elegant and gracious lady, always immaculate and beautiful. I know she was your lighthouse and driving support throughout your career. Sending all my love, Pat, and thinking of you through this very sad time.

Sannette Olivier

So sorry for your loss but know she gained her angel wings forever and you will always have somebody looking down on you with a big smile.