Ali - Celebration of Life: A Tribute to Alison Elizabeth Thomson (1975–2025)

Summary

• Ali was born on 28 January 1975 in Pietermaritzburg, the cherished daughter of Derek and Esma Thomson and the youngest sister to James, Angus, Cath, and Judy. Her early years spanned Scottsville Primary and Carter High, where she pursued a wide range of sports and developed a lifelong love of adventure. A childhood gift—a canoe—sparked a passion for paddling that would accompany her through many challenges, including multiple finishes of the Duzi Canoe Marathon, reflecting her grit and zest for life. She studied agriculture at Cedara College, forming enduring friendships along the way, before moving to London at 21, where she celebrated milestones and broadened her horizons. (N/A)

• Ali built a life around family, partnership, and motherhood. She met James in London, returned with him to Tzaneen, and they had two sons, Angus and Murray; later, with Terence, she welcomed a third son, Guy. Her boys were the central motivation in her life, and she stewarded a home filled with love, connection, and courage through both joyful times and hardships. Her journey also included resilience in the face of a prolonged illness, culminating in her passing on 3 December 2025. (N/A)

• The memorial service held on 24 January 2026 at St Paul’s Anglican Church brought together family, friends, and loved ones in a tribute that blended prayer, scripture, and music. The program featured opening readings, psalms, congregational prayers, and eulogies from family members and close friends, interwoven with beloved hymns and meaningful reflections. A Swan-themed poem and quotes highlighted themes of transformation, memory, and grace, underscoring Ali’s enduring legacy as a sister, mother, and friend who united people and inspired courage. (N/A)

Ali - Celebration of Life - 24 January 2026 - Flipbook by Fleepit