Prof Marilyn, the deputy vice-chancellor for community engagement and Mahikeng Campus operations, passed away on 20 May 2021, due to Covid-19-related complications.

 

Painting a picture of her life

 

Through their words, the people honouring and celebrating her life painted a picture of a strong woman with strong opinions.

 

As vice-chancellor Prof Dan Kgwadi put it: “I will remember her as a person who engaged with others in a bold and robust way, but in the end she always wanted to converge to a conclusion.”

 

He also said that her name should remain on the campus and that it is therefore befitting to name one of the buildings after her. “When you walk on our campus, you must know the contribution that Prof Marilyn made to this institution.”

 

She will be remembered

 

Others called her a dynamic leader, a no-nonsense person who handled everybody with respect; a hard worker and the embodiment of justice and equity. She will also be remembered as someone who focused on sustainable growth and finding African solutions for Africa’s priorities.

 

Her authoritative voice and decisive nature, her love in action and her straight talk will be sorely missed by many whose lives she has touched.

 

Yes, a big tree has fallen, but we find solace in another comment: Her flame will eternally burn in our hearts.