It is with great sadness that we note the passing of Mary Turok, a lifelong activist, struggle stalwart, and the beloved wife of IFAA’s founder, Ben Turok. Throughout her remarkable life, Mary combined courage and compassion — from her defiance of apartheid laws in the 1950s, to her contributions as a parliamentarian in the democratic era, to her tireless advocacy for the dignity of older persons.

Her son, Professor Ivan Turok, together with Albie Sachs, renowned freedom fighter, author, and former judge on South Africa’s first Constitutional Court appointed by Nelson Mandela, has written a moving tribute in the Daily Maverick, reflecting on her life of defiance, integrity, and humanity.

Read the full obituary here on Daily Maverick

IFAA honours her extraordinary legacy and extends our deepest condolences to the Turok family.