102 Years for Mary Groep of San Francesco Parish, Port Elizabeth

by Admin · July 14, 2023

Mary Groep was born on 15 July 1921 and spent 45 years as an educator at different primary schools in Stutterheim, Cathcart, Komani and East London. She also served as vice principal at the Catholic school in Stutterheim.

After retirement, she was still called upon for many years to assist with the teaching of children. Apart from a career in teaching, Mary played a pivotal role in her community where she ran a grocery store for 5 years and became involved in charity work. Her passion for working with the disadvantaged saw her obtain sponsorships to knit blankets and scarves, along with a group of women, to give to the less fortunate members of the community. “She gave out bags of clothes and took in family members,” says her daughter-in-law Barbara Groep.

A devout Catholic, Mary is always sitting ready with her missal when the Minister of the Eucharist visits her. Apart from a hearing difficulty she’s still in good health and walks unaided. She is the mother of 6 children, (2 sadly passed away), 19 grand. 18 great-grand and 6 great-great-grandchildren. Her family will always remember her as a remarkable woman, who is a kind-hearted and selfless giver.