Nana was always a guiding light in my life. From the early days, I remember her teaching me how to say “feather” and enthralling me and my 5-year-old classmates with stories of crocodiles and hippos when I brought her in to school as my “show and tell”. I remember beaming with pride for having such a cool Nana. That sense of pride at being related to such a remarkable person only grew as I got older. Through letters and phone calls and even a trip out to Cape Town, Nana’s teachings evolved from how to pronounce words, to life lessons regarding character and conduct that I still strive to embody. Our conversations progressed from discussing crocodiles and hippos to discussing Arnold Schwarzenegger movies and Yeats – both considered with equal vigour. Nana was so wonderful to be around because she really cared. She was interested in our lives and always interested in the world around her – treating both with generosity and kindness. While we are sad to see her go, I feel so enriched to have known Truda. I am proud that my daughter bears her name and hopeful I will pass on some of the qualities that Nana instilled in me. And I’ll be thinking of her when I teach my daughters to stick their tongues out when they say “feather”! Love you Nana. Rest in Peace.

Ryan Say

I would like to extend my sympathies to Barbara, Micheal and entire Family circle, I was deeply saddened yesterday when I heard that Truda had passed away. Truda was an absolute lady, always very glamorous and simply oozed sophistication, I have such lovely memories which I will cherish, loved hearing trudas stories of her life in South Africa, the fancy dances she attended to and of course her beloved late husband John which she quite clearly adored. I am privileged to have met her and become friends. Everytime I see 'the chase ' on TV I will fondly think of you dear truda, Rest in Peace Noeleen

NOELEEN DALY

Nana, although our worlds are different now, or at least that’s how it seems. For I see you when I close my eyes, because you’re in my dreams! I know you’re up in heaven now and looking down on me. When I look up to the stars, I know that’s where you’ll be. Even though I miss you, you’re not so far away, as my heart is full of memories and I’ll treasure them each day. ❤️ Reunited again with with my grandad John and my beautiful Daddy Paul. Please give them a kiss from me! Xx Rest in peace!

John-Joe Gilmore

For as long as I can remember, I always looked forward to visits from my Nana, Truda, who exuded warmth and happiness, and who loved nothing more than spoiling her wee grandchildren -- even when we weren't so "wee" any longer. She cherished every moment she spent with her family and always had a bright smile on her face in the company of her many loved ones. It is a true privilege to be descended from such a kind and genuine woman, and I credit her for instilling in me a life-long passion for literature. I can fondly recall many an evening spent reading poetry back-and-forth, and even when we were oceans apart she loved to listen to a recital over the phone. May she rest in peace, yet live forever in our hearts. Rory

Rory Say

Dearest Aunty Truda…. How I will miss you so very very much. We always had such fun when we were together and you have always encouraged me to be the best I can be. You always loved style and fashion and remained so beautiful to the end! Thank you for all the good advice over the years So many looked up to you as an inspirational women.. but more than that you were a wonderful friend to so many but especially to me. I’m sure if heaven has a champagne bar you will be at it… until we meet again… Your niece Paulene x

Paulene Anderson

I did not know Truda well but when I did meet her I was struck by her warmth and gaiety of spirit. We also share a love of books which I believe her daughter Barbara inherited. A wonderful legacy! My heart goes out to all the family who have lost this lovely courageous woman - dear Barbara, Doug, Michael, Ryan and Rory - thinking of you all with deepest sympathy. Much love from Gill and Shaukat, Kasim and Aslam

Gill Ellis

Goodbye dear truda you will be sadly missed by you family and friends. Your were such a beautiful person inside and out always so glamorous. You were just like a second mother to me. Hope you are having a wee smig of wine up there in heaven with patsy. Love you to the moon and back. Your adopted daughter Annie xxx

Anne Coyle