RIVERSDALE NEWS - Group Editors has said goodbye to a beloved colleague, Shirley Coetzee, who has resigned.

She served Group Editors for a remarkable 30 years. 

Shirley's role of sales manager for Mossel Bay and Riversdale is now filled by Lizanne Schraader. It was an internal appointment. 

At her farewell function held at The Gannet Café Restaurant in Mossel Bay, Shirley pointed out in her speech: "Half of my life was spent at the newspaper! 

"My children 'grew up' at the Mossel Bay Advertiser. Commending and thanking the Moolman family, who owns the Advertiser, she said: "I was allowed by the Moolmans to put my family first."

Peter Moolman, his wife Lesley and daughter Nicole Rimbault were present at the farewell, where it was difficult to hold back tears. 

People struggled to speak with a lump in their throats.

Mossel Bay Advertiser editor Suzette Herrer said Shirley had been a 'special friend, almost a sister' during their three decades of working together.

Servaas de Kock, Group Editors sales and marketing director, said: "I had the privilege of working with Shirley for the last three years. 

"It was such an incredible journey! Shirley was instrumental in the implementation of our group sales strategy, which has ensured extraordinary growth.

Suzette Herrer, Deon Joubert and Shirley Coetzee at her farewell party.

"Her commitment to Group Editors will always stand out as a highlight. She was more than a colleague. She was a friend and someone I could rely on."

Shirley's children Alwyn, Rumé and Michelle gave their mom this message on her retirement: 

"We have been so privileged to have a mom who showed us that you can be a great wife, awesome mother, brilliant at work, a phenomenal friend and so much more!

"She taught us that nothing defines you, that balance is key and that all that really matters is how it makes you feel at the end of the day. 

"Cheers on your retirement, momsie! We are so unbelievably proud of you."

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