Cape Town - Nora de Kock, who was possibly the second oldest living woman in the Western Cape at the age of 114, has passed away.
De Kock, from Sarepta, Kuils River, became well known to Cape Town residents as her birthday was celebrated every year.
She died on Saturday, surrounded by family.
De Kock had a short illness after being hospitalised last month because of breathing issues and struggled to eat solids.
She was born on May 12, 1910, on a small farm in Paarl. When De Kock was first introduced to the media, she lived on her own at the age of 104 and would even walk to church.
She is survived by her two children, seven grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren, including great-great grandchildren.
Danielle Goliath, one of De Kock’s grandchildren, said the family was proud of their grandmother, who had left a legacy behind.
“She passed away at 2pm on Saturday,” she detailed.
“She was admitted to hospital in August due to breathing issues and was struggling to keep food down.
“She was in the care of one of our cousins when she was discharged from hospital and we were in the process of hiring a carer for her when she passed away.
“My grandmother had a smile until the end. She loved everyone and was loved by all.
“She said she felt at peace seeing her children and grandchildren and that now she could rest.
“It is a big loss for our family and we are thankful to everyone who played a role in her life, even until the very end.”
Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis also shared a message with the Cape Argus on her passing.
He said: “On behalf of the City, we express our condolences to Nora’s family. Reaching the age of 114 is an amazing feat that all Capetonians can take inspiration from. We pray for the family’s peace and strength at this time.”
Wouter de Vos, ward 11 councillor for Kuils River, also extended his condolences to the family.
“Rest in Peace dearest Ouma Nora de Kock – it was a privilege to have known you, and we will cherish and honour your memory,” he said.
Carol van Wyk, who has been part of De Kock’s life and journey for years by planning special birthday celebrations for her and others in the community, said it had been a privilege to have known “Ouma Nora” as she was fondly called.
“I met Ouma in 1990 when I purchased a home near hers and while working in the ward for the councillor’s office we discovered her age and we started celebrating her birthday from the age of 100,” she said.
“She was not just an acquaintance but became my friend and I will miss her very much, especially our special visits together.”
De Kock’s passing comes just days after Margaret Maritz from Touws River turned 118 years old.
Maritz is believed to possibly be the oldest living person in the Western Cape and country, but this has yet to be verified.
Her birthday was celebrated by humanitarian organisation Gift of the Givers at her residence, the AGS Old Age Home in Touws River at the weekend.
Maritz holds the country’s record for being the oldest living person following the death of Johanna Mazibuko, who died two months before her 129th birthday in March last year.
genevieve.serra@inl.co.za
Cape Argus