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THE GREYTON POST
MAR /APRIL 2025
Celebrating a Lifetime Together
O n February 11, 1975, Greyton witnessed an extraordinary event as eight couples, including Doreen and Stoffel Plaatjies and Sarah Bantom, were united in matrimony in a mass wedding organized by the local church. This unique ceremony was not just a formalization of relationships but a community affirmation, with the church committee deciding that couples living
Today, the essence of their union remains strong. Doreen and Stoffel continue to enjoy simple pleasures together - although they have recently stopped their gardening and wood-selling ventures due to physical ailments, they remain active in the community. Stoffel, who taught himself to read and write after leaving school at a young age to work on a farm, enjoys tinkering and fixing things, while
wedding rings, sourced from Osmonds, reflected this, with prices ranging from 39 to 79 cents. Stoffel recalls a humorous hiccup when the ring got stuck in his pocket, nearly leading to the priest using his own ring for the ceremony. Despite the budget constraints, the wedding was rich in love and laughter. Doreen fondly remembers their outfits
and the overall joy, emphasizing that even a simple ring carried profound symbolic meaning. Their wedding day was made memorable by the presence of friends like Freddy, whose jokes added lightness and laughter to the day. Now precisely 50 years later, the couple cherishes the memories of their shared journey. They believe that marriage, like a garden, requires constant nurturing. Their advice to young couples is to commit to working through challenges together, emphasising that the strength of a marriage lies in mutual support and enduring love.
together should marry. This day marked not only the union of partners but also the beginning of lifelong commitments, as remarkably, all eight couples remained together ‘till death did part.’ The atmosphere on their wedding day was nothing short of festive. The village came alive with a grand community party where all eight couples were blessed individually yet celebrated collectively. The highlight was when all couples shared a simultaneous kiss—a moment of unity and joy.
Doreen dedicates herself to cooking for community children. Reflecting on their life together, they value the legacy they are building. Their marriage has been a journey of love, sacrifice, and shared experiences, proving that true commitment withstands the test of time. As they look back on 50 years of marriage, Doreen, Stoffel, and Sarah stand as a testament to the enduring power of love and the strength of community bonds in our glorious valley.
Economic times were tough, and the
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