Klerksdorp Record, Klerksdorp - Locals were shocked to learn about the death of Thelma Armstrong, a well-known former resident who relocated to the USA in 2019.
Armstrong (54) was identified as one of the victims of the shooting at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc Michigan, USA on Sunday September 28. Before she left South Africa she was a general manager at Foodzone Supermarket in Klerksdorp. She emigrated to be close to her daughter and grandchildren who called her YiaYia, an endearing term for their granny.
According to Jaco de Bruyn, his sister attended church that morning with her children and grandchildren when a gunman rammed a truck into the church during service and opened fire. The gunman was killed in a shootout with authorities. “Thelma was wounded and died in the ambulance on the way to hospital. You can imagine how traumatised everyone is after this. The FBI is handling the investigation,’’ he said.
Three more people died and eight others were hospitalised after the mass shooting that sent shock waves around the world. The shooter managed to set the church alight and it burnt to the ground.
News of Thelma’s death spread like wildfire on Tuesday September 30 when more information about the victims were released. Her friends and family are shattered by the news. “She was a small person with the biggest heart. She lived for her children and grandchildren and always said you have to live each day as if it is your last. We will miss her so much,’’ her brother said.
He said she was very happy in Michigan and loved being so close to her grandchildren. She worked as a quality technician at a manufacturing plant.
Tributes on Facebook
Noni Demetriou Kokinos - I’m so sorry to hear this, you were so kind and it is such a senseless death. So much love and strength to your family Thelma Armstrong hope you rest in peace.
Khyber Carimo - Sad, I remember her so well. She was always at the till at the entrance with the old Uncle-Tukkies And Adonis father. May her soul rest in peace,and strength to her daughter.
