Queenstown, South Africa – The Queenstown Girls’ High School (GHS) community is mourning the loss of Molly Brown, a cherished alumna who passed away on August 3, 2024, just six months shy of her 100th birthday. Molly, née Miles, was the oldest surviving graduate of GHS, having matriculated in 1943. Her passing marks the end of an era for the school and the broader community.
Born on March 24, 1925, Molly attended GHS from 1940, where she was affectionately known by her peers as "Milly Moles." Her deep connection to the school did not end with her graduation. Molly married Bisset Brown, an Old Queenian, and their family continued the GHS tradition. Their daughter Diane Brown served as head girl in 1969, and their grandchildren also followed in their educational footsteps at GHS and Queens.
Molly’s life was deeply rooted in the Queenstown and Molteno districts. She grew up on a farm in Molteno with her three brothers and later lived with her husband on the Brown family farm, Penryn. In her later years, she resided in Gonubie and Kidds Beach, where she remained a beloved figure among family and friends.
The Old Queenstonia Association expressed their deepest condolences to Molly’s family, acknowledging her enduring legacy within the GHS community. Facebook posts from the GHS family and community members highlighted the profound impact she had on those around her. One post from the Old Queenstonia Association read, "It is with great sadness that the GHS family heard about the passing of Molly Brown. She was the oldest surviving ‘old girl’ at GHS."
Molly Brown’s life was characterized by a strong commitment to family, community, and education. Her memory will continue to inspire future generations of GHS alumni, reflecting a life well-lived and a legacy that will endure for years to come.