Rubey Freda Choonoo

Rubey Freda Choonoo passed away on October 3rd, 2025, at 102 years. She was born September 12th, 1923, in Ladysmith, South Africa to the late Matthew and Sama Lawrence and granddaughter to Grace and John Thomas. She was 5th in a family of 11 children with 8 sisters and 3 brothers. After WWI, her parents relocated to Pietermaritzburg where she grew up on the famous Church Street in PMBG. Under apartheid in South Africa, life was difficult, and they faced many hardships. but with her parents and grandparents influence she became, steadfast, and strong in faith. Hers was a close-knit family who supported and helped each other through to their adult lives. Rubey’s personality was magnetic. Her father named her Rubey because at birth his first words to her was “she’s a gem.” She was a beacon of hope and love to many and became “mother” to all who affectionately called her Ma, Teacher, Aunty Roob. Her mantra was “fun and laughter”, and her playful streak and humour brought smiles and roaring laughter at parties and family events. In 1947, Rubey married the late Allan Choonoo. They had six children who they raised in Durban in the infamous Himalaya House. Rubey’s plate was full. She cared for Allan who suffered a stroke while also supporting her children. With her indomitable strength, she put her children through school and helped their passage to the US to continue their studies. She instilled in her children and grandchildren, a commitment to God, a love for reading, and an optimism and an enjoyment of life. After Allan’s passing Rubey relocated to the US at the age of 60. Here, she continued to serve and support all around her whenever she was needed. Rubey devoutly kept her faith and in the Lorne Street Methodist Church actively contributed to the Woman’s Auxiliary and the Leaders Meetings and many charitable endeavours. In the US, she attended the Grace Redeemer Church and in her latter years resided at the Family of Caring. In her early years, Rubey served as a nurse in the red cross during WWII and her life’s career was as an infant schoolteacher. She taught at many schools including, St. Anthony’s, Ghandi Desai, Surat Hindu and Sunbeam School. Many of her students remember her fondly to this day. Rubey was talented in many ways. She knitted for her children’s cardigans when they were little, she undertook several projects knitting and crocheting for charity. She also sewed most of her own clothes and her children’s and undertook quilting, completing many fine projects. Amongst her hobbies she enjoyed reading and travelling and had the opportunity to travel to Australia and parts of Europe with her siblings. Rubey is survived by five of her children, six grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews around the world. She touched many people and will be deeply missed by all. A true legend for us all. May the road rise to meet you, Ma, Mum, Aunty, Gam

Rubey Freda Choonoo

October 3, 2025