A Tribute to Getrude Thenjiwe Mncube
05-October 1939 – 10-September 2023
Today we give thanks to God for the life of Getrude Thenjiwe Mncube — a woman of steadfast faith, servant leadership, and courageous witness in the Methodist Church of Southern Africa (MCSA)
Born on the 5th of October 1939 in Bizana, Transkei, Eastern Cape, Getrude gave her life to Christ and to His Church early on. She was a dedicated professional nurse, and even while serving patients, she continued to pursue her studies at the University of the North — a testimony to her discipline and commitment to excellence. In 1961 she married Reverend Neville Ndabazewu Mncube. Their union was marked by both joy and sacrifice. In 1962 they were blessed with their daughter, Thandiwe Nomahlubi. Shortly after, Reverend Neville was arrested for political reasons and imprisoned on Robben Island. He was released in 1969 and later called into ministry. Through every trial, Getrude stood as a pillar of strength, prayer, and unwavering support. In 1971, God blessed them with a son, Vuyo Ntshontsholokozi Alfred. With Neville now serving as a Reverend in the MCSA, Getrude faithfully embraced her role as a Reverend’s wife, serving the Church with grace. Though they faced deep sorrow — losing their daughter in 1972 and again in 1974 she lost her husband in a car accident as well— Getrude leaned on God.
Getrude’s calling went far beyond the home. She served with distinction as, MCSA District President of Women’s Manyano and Area President of the World Federation of Methodist and Uniting Church Women (WFMUCW), Southern and East Africa Area. In her acceptance speech as Area President, she declared:
“With God’s help I will do His work. He will be a light on the way — not my intelligence, but only with God’s knowledge and wisdom.”
These words capture the humility, dependence on God, and bold faith that marked her entire ministry. She was a builder of women, a mentor to many, and a voice for the voiceless. Under her leadership, women were discipled, empowered, and mobilized for mission across the region.
Getrude retired in October 2003 and settled in Standerton. Even in retirement, she did not rest from the Lord’s work. She served on the boards of EOC and EOF NGOs, later as Chairperson, and continued to serve faithfully in her local MCSA church and community. Getrude Thenjiwe Mncube leaves behind a legacy of faith that endured trials, leadership that lifted others, and service that pointed always to Christ. We thank God for her life, for the women she raised, and for the witness she leaves in the Church. May her memory inspire us to serve with the same humility, courage, and reliance on God.
Amen.
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