Author Rust ‘spoke to soul of SA people’

Sandiso Phaliso

AUTHOR Winnie Rust, who was murdered at her Wellington home last week, was laid to rest yesterday.

She had been described as tough-minded, a people’s person, full of life and humble.

The funeral of the 77-year-old came a week after she was found dead on the kitchen floor of her Uitzicht home.

She had bruises to her face, and her hands and feet had been tied. Her murder left the small Uitzicht community in shock. Two suspects have appeared in court in connection with Rust’s murder

Yesterday, saddened friends said the funeral service was emotional but celebratory, stating that Rust had cared deeply for others, not only in her family and their circle of friends, but for the disenfranchised people in the communities around Wellington.

“I cannot believe I will not ever talk to her, share dreams and laugh with her again,” said Antoinette Oosthuizen, who knew Rust very well.

Oosthuizen described Rust as a true African legend whose books speak to the soul of South African people.

“Her books continue to withstand the test of time. Her writings were not only about self-expression, but began a dialogue about reality which condemned oppression and sought to propel us to great freedom.”

Dr Melleta Louw, of Wellington, said Rust had become a legend in her own time, and her creativity and innovations were a shining beacon, with her work opening a pathway to new styles and trends.

She said Rust’s death was very sad for the people in her community and she would be missed dearly.

Rust had influenced an entire generation, not only book writers but writers generally, who in turn have made their mark on the international and local scenes.

In a tribute to her aunt, Rust’s niece, Amelia van der Merwe, said she remembered how the fine lines next to her nose used to crease up when she laughed. “I remember her orange lipstick and her easy elegant style. I remember her as a person who was full of joy and warmth.

“She was able to engage with and contemplate complex and troubling issues affecting the world around her, for which she cared deeply, with thoughtfulness and consideration.”

Van der Merwe said Rust’s death was a reminder to her family and the community of life’s potential for brutality and senselessness.

Rust was a wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, writer and leader in her community, Van der Merwe said.

sandiso.phaliso@inl.co.za