MOSSEL BAY NEWS - The Sotto Voce Choir recently held a commemorative concert at the Dutch Reformed Church in Mossel Bay in honour of their beloved member, Glynis Flores (66), who died from a suspected heart attack after participating in the annual Golden Games at the Van Riebeeck Stadium on 29 June.
According to Dr Dan Potgieter, a member of the Sotto Voce Choir, and Flores' daughter, Connie, Flores was a treasured member of the musical group with a deep passion for serving the Mossel Bay community, most notably the Benevolent Park home for senior citizens.
"Glynis' passion for community service was deeply influenced by her grandmother, Bettie de Jager, whose own commitment to uplifting others helped shape the woman Glynis would become," says Connie.
She said Flores' grandmother and a group of women contributed to the establishment of Benevolent Park and a small crèche in D'Almeida.
As a young girl, Flores was actively involved in her community and various fundraising initiatives.
She later became a social worker, operated two crèches, and continued her humanitarian work in Gauteng for a few years, including with the South African National Tuberculosis Association (Santa), before returning to Mossel Bay and getting involved with Benevolent Park again.
Glynis Flores. Photo: Linzetta Calitz
She arranged outings for senior citizens, facilitated complimentary reflexology sessions, encouraged physical activity and promoted opportunities for social interaction.
"One particularly meaningful initiative was her 'Adopt a Grandmother' project, which encouraged individuals to form supportive relationships with elderly women, offering companionship, practical assistance and care according to their individual needs," says her daughter.
Flores was also significantly involved in Mossel Bay's numerous soup kitchens, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic, and was an active member of the Anglican Church in Mossel Bay, where she served as a lay minister and participated in its choir.
The Sotto Voce's concert proceeds were donated to Benevolent Park in honour of Flores, who served on its executive committee for many years and held the position of chairperson a decade ago.
"Glynis Flores was far more than a community volunteer, organiser, singer or leader," says Connie.
"Mossel Bay has lost a remarkable woman, and her absence will be deeply felt by the many individuals, families and organisations whose lives she enriched."
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