In January 1922 the historical invention of treating diabetes with insulin was recorded. Strikes by Transvaal coal miners gave rise to the Rand Rebellion. And closer to home, like well-known American actress and pioneer of early television Betty White, a beloved local was born into the world.
Strand’s very own “Golden Girl” Frances Dreyer celebrated her 100th birthday last Wednesday (12 January). The milestone was marked with a special thanksgiving service and open house at a family residence in Fourth Street to allow those near and dear to pop in and share in the momentous occasion.
The Dreyer family matriarch, who has aged graciously, stepped out dressed to the nines, donning a dress in her favourite shade of pink, and joined the Methodist Church Women’s Association – of which she was a founding member – in singing some of their most treasured hymns.
“We love you and thank you for guiding us and teaching us, by your example, to show kindness to all around us,” the family extended in a collective message to the birthday girl.
The Hawston native was born to parents Wilhelmina (née Gillian) and William Peter Marais, as one of nine children. Frances had five sisters and three brothers, who have all gone before her. She embarked on her school career as a learner at Hawston Primary School, but dropped out to help her parents make a living. She moved to Strand at the age of 17 to look after her cousin’s baby and work as a nanny.
Frances had numerous job opportunities in the years that followed, which included working at the then Da Gama Hotel, Co-op and as supervisor at Gants Food.
Frances also found love and in 1943 married her husband Peter Dreyer who passed away in December 1974 after 31 years of marriage. Together they share two sons, five grandchildren (including the loss of one) and nine great grandchildren.
The centenarian’s granddaughter Hybré Reeding and her cousins treasure memories of growing up with their “Ouma” in the halfway and having to go to bed early on Tuesday evenings, which were dedicated to watching Dallas with all the neighbours.
“She always had a meal or snack ready when we got home from school. I also sang in the choir with her and will always cherish mid-week choir practises at church,” Hybré recalled.
While some of the perks of being a century “young” includes catching up on much-needed rest, she still manages to keep busy by reading, especially the Bible, and doing puzzles. She used to crochet and knit in aid of the welfare organisation Helping Hands, but instead “entertains” the household with her singing these days.
Frances reckons her secret to longevity and good health lies in honouring her father and mother. Her best advice to her younger self is to live a clean life and be faithful.
To youngsters aspiring to reach old age, she said: “Love your Jesus and He will be with you every day.”
Frances considers the first moon landing in 1969 as the most significant event of her lifetime and in response to whether she has ticked off all the items on her bucket list said: “I have lived a full life and share many cherished memories with loved ones.”
With the celebrations come and gone, what is she looking forward to now? “I leave everything in God’s hands. He knows best,” she responded.
