This Eulogy was read by Denver Wicomb at the Wynberg Congregational Church on the funeral of our dear mom, Sarah Johanna Elizabeth Wicomb, also know as Saretha. Born 05 March 1946 - 19 February 2023. The Funeral

1. EULOGY of SARAH (Saretha) WICOMB
Our Mom, Sarah Johannna Elizabeth Wicomb, 77, passed away on Monday the 19th
February 2024 , leaving behind a legacy of compassion, dedication, and love. Born in the
quaint Western Cape town of Barrydale on March 5, 1946, she spent her formative years
in humble surroundings, marked by the early loss of her mother when she was just four
years old. No dad to bring them up. 10 Sisters, having to fend for themselves.
Despite facing adversity from a young age, Sarah's indomitable spirit and determination
shone through. She pursued her education in Swellendam before embarking on a
nursing career, inspired by her elder sister's path. It was during her nursing training that
she met her beloved husband, our dad, Martin who would become her lifelong partner
for over 50 years.
In 1968, Mom graduated as a fully enrolled nurse, marking the beginning of a
remarkable career dedicated to caring for others. With meticulous attention to detail
and a commitment to excellence, she served countless patients in various hospitals
across the Western Cape of Cape Town. Her starched uniforms, perfectly groomed
appearance, and signature red blow-dried hair became synonymous with her dedication
to her profession. No wonder all 3 of us ended up in the Medical Profession, serving
patients.
Her compassion knew no bounds. Whether tending to the elderly, comforting younger
patients, or extending kindness to beggars and paupers, she treated each individual with
unwavering respect and love. Her handbag, akin to a mobile clinic, was always stocked
with essentials to meet the needs of her family and those around her. She had from
meds to food with her at all times.
A devout Christian, She instilled in us, her children the importance of honouring God.
Church on Sunday was a cherished tradition, accompanied by hymns echoing in the car
and still resonating through the home on the Gramophone or LP’s. She believed in the
value of education, urging her children to "Vat jou Boeke!" and emphasizing that
"Education is everything, my child." She forced us to know that one degree was not
enough, even if you are a doctor. Her dedication to learning extended beyond the
classroom, as she enjoyed sewing, knitting, and creating patterns for clothes. Her talents
were further demonstrated through her love for crafting duvets and curtains.
Sarah's love extended beyond her immediate family to include all her godchildren,
whom she supported through both good times and bad. Fond memories of camping

2. trips, picnics in Wynberg Parks, and braais in Tokai forest and Newlands will be
cherished by all who knew her.
Despite modest means, Mom taught her children to appreciate the simple joys in life.
She relished lunches at Open Doors and restaurants in Wynberg, and shopping outings
at Ackermans and Pep Stores were treasured family experiences. Her trip to tour Europe
in the 90s was a highlight in her life, a testament to her adventurous spirit.
Sarah's nurturing nature extended to her home life, where she taught her children
essential life skills, from hanging washing to banking. She taught us to correctly make
up a bed with an envelope fold to the tee. She believed in the importance of hard work
and self-sufficiency, encouraging us, her children to strive for success and never giving
up. Her mantra of "Always speak up for justice" and "Squeaking joints get the most
grease" exemplified her unwavering commitment to fairness and equality.
Sarah's radiant personality and boundless love touched the lives of all who knew her.
She was a force of nature, embodying true grit and determination in every aspect of her
life. Her belief that "happiness comes when you get love from your family, and a family
that prays together stays together" will continue to inspire all who were fortunate
enough to have known her. She always brought us up with the wisdom, saying, Let your
Conscience be your guide.
Mom will be deeply missed but never forgotten. May she rest in peace, knowing that
she touched the hearts of many and left a lasting legacy of love and compassion.
Thank you to everyone that played a part in her life from the depth of our hearts, from
Dad, Martin,Varnia, Gercheon and me, Denver