Susan Louw celebrated her 98th birthday on Tuesday August 17.
Ma Louw, as she is affectionately known, lives in Bonteheuwel but is originally from Mamre, on the West Coast. Her family moved to Brooklyn when she was 7 years old. In 1964, they moved to Bonteheuwel, where she still lives.
According to her granddaughter, Genevieve Abrahams, Ma Louw is believed to be the eldest Bonteheuwel resident.
“She is adored by many and is a true pillar of strength. Ma set very high standards, and even though her memory might not be good at times, she has no problem reprimanding our children when they are out of line. She has lived a full life, and we are grateful to still have her with us. We give God all the praise and glory for having mercy on her,” Ms Abrahams said.
Ma Louw believes if you honour your parents, you will be blessed with a long life, as this is what is written in the Bible.
She is the only surviving sibling of six. Ma Louw has two daughters, seven grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren and five great great-grandchildren.