February 16, 1926 - June 20, 2015

Sybil Julie Olive Tavares, wife of former DRGS headmaster, Sandy Tavares and mother to Shivona, Subash, Sheryn and Sharman passed away in Geneva on Saturday, June 20, 2015.

Condolences to Sheryn Gajjar: sheryngajjar1@gmail.com

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Sybil (affectionately known as Tibby) was born in Nairobi, Kenya on 16 February 1926. She had six siblings; Gladys, Eric, Mickey, Kathleen, Archie and Phillip (with only one surviving her – Mickey). Her father John, passed away early and his wife, Mary, brought up her seven children on her own with courage and tenacity. She was one of the first students to be enrolled in the school in 1931.

Sybil married Sandy Tavares on 6 April 1953 in Nairobi. They had four children in four years: Sharman in January 1954, Subash in 1956, Sheryn in 1957 and Shivona in 1958. She was a stay at home mum when the children were young and once they went to school she worked as an administrative assistant for a Frigidaire appliance supplier. She was respected and well liked by everyone. She faced many challenges in her life and always dealt them with a positive attitude. One of her major challenges was that her first daughter was born with Downs Syndrome at a time when there was no medical information available regarding the condition. Sybil, with the help and support of Sandy, brought Sharman up to the best of their ability and because of their special care she grew up confident and independent. Another challenge she faced with was taking over her brother, Eric’s business (selling petro-chemical additives) when he had to leave Uganda for Australia. She travelled all over East Africa and was successful in a male dominated industry because of her sheer determination. In 1997, when Sandy was diagnosed with prostate cancer, she was a pillar of strength during his illness until he passed away in June 1998. She also coped with Sharman’s illnesses in England and was truly devastated when she passed away in September 2006.

In Kenya, Sybil worked tirelessly as a volunteer forming a society to help parents of children with special needs and was involved in several fundraising projects. She found time to deliver food (donated by bakeries and grocery stores) to the homeless and poor in the streets of Nairobi. She contributed to the founding and organization of the Special Olympics in Kenya, with the running of Jacaranda Special School and other non- profit organizations – always with patience and enthusiasm. She enjoyed travelling the world, going to the theatre, movies, watching tennis, soccer and her special love was of course, Formula One racing.

She had an unconditional love for her children and supported them in all aspects of their lives. She adored her seven grandchildren and took pride in their achievements. She instilled in her children and grand children the importance of helping those who are less fortunate than themselves and especially the special needs community.

Always so good, unselfish and kind

Few on this earth her equal we find.

Loyal and true to the end of her days.

You will not be forgotten, dear mother

Sincerest gratitude and thanks to Shivona, Subash and Jayne for all they did for Mum in the golden years of her life.

For a tribute to husband, Sandy Tavares, click here