Making Memories with Ron Smith Care Centre: Veteran teacher turns 95

Tuesday 17 May 2016

Veteran teacher turns 95

Joan Bellow, a resident of Ron Smith Care Centre, turned 95on May 9, 2016.

Hers has been a rich life of imparting knowledge to generations of children. She and late husband Phil – who met when they were students at Rhodes – worked for decades in education, both in Zimbabwe and South Africa.

The only girl of five children, Joan was born in Pretoria. As a married woman, she lived in many parts of Zimbabwe and South Africa – wherever worthwhile teaching or school inspector posts piqued her and Phil’s interest.

After retiring, they worked for a decade helping pre-schoolers in an informal settlement in Gonubie near East London, giving structure to the little ones’ otherwise aimless days and ensuring that they were fed and safe while their parents were at work.

They were good friends of Ian Smith, the former Prime Minister of then-Rhodesia. Joan says he was a good man who did not forget his friends when he became a successful politician. “He had no airs or graces but was simply a good man who took some wrong turns.”

Joan and Phil lived in Zimbabwe from 1955 until 1977 when they returned to South Africa. Their next long-term home was Gonubie, just outside of East London, where they stayed for 20 years.

They had three children - Anne, Louise and John.

Joan Bellew – a very youthful 95 year old.

After 59 years of marriage, Phil passed away and after staying on in their Gonubie cottage for another six years, Joan relocated to Gauteng to be closer to her son.

“It is hard to think that God still wants me here, perhaps to do some good work? I shall try my best to be a good person, as an example to my children, grandchildren and great grandchildren,” says Joan.

Her birthday was celebrated at a well-attended party, with family and friends – many of whom are fellow Ron Smith Care Centre residents, wishing the bright-eyed birthday girl well.

Joan’s birthday co-incided with the care centre’s Sister Tando Ncube’s birthday and she was present to share in the fun.

“My wonderful daughter in-law Heather brought cakes, savouries and drinks – unfortunately, no champagne! – and I was so pleased that so many people came to wish me happy birthday, including my driver, Lucas Mosoma, who has been with me for seven years.”