The South African family of a “selfless and dedicated” Dundee nurse who died from Covid-19 have thanked locals for their love and kindness.
Johanna Daniels, 67, who worked at Pitkerro Care Centre, was taken to hospital with symptoms just days after her birthday on April 2.
Having tested positive, her condition quickly worsened and she died on April 13.
Born in De Aar, Northern Cape, South Africa, she moved to Dundee in 2003 for work and later became a British citizen.
Her family, friends and colleagues say she loved helping others and often worked extra hours because she was so passionate about nursing.
Her two sons Patrick Daniels and Brandy Van Staden, who still live in South Africa, have thanked people in Dundee for being there for her funeral when they could not.
Patrick said: “She was the glue of our family and the best mother.
“God chose her specially for us. We were blessed, not only because she was our mother but because she loved us unconditionally.
“To the people in Scotland, thank you for being there for her, my family appreciate it.
“They were there for our mother when we could not. The love you showed shows us how much you loved her. From the bottom of our hearts we thank you and want you to know we appreciate it.
“Thank you to everyone for their prayers.”
Brandy added: “My mum was a very hard working, ambitious, and caring person, who loved to help others.
“She put herself last, loved us dearly and was very religious.
“We have found it very difficult being away from home for so many years and now not being able to be there for her.”
A funeral for Johanna, whose maiden name was Van Steden, was held last Thursday at Dundee Crematorium and staff at Pitkerro paid a special tribute later that evening during the weekly 8pm clap for carers event.
Tracey Ingram from the Mains of Fintry Pipe Band organised a piper and a drummer for the event, which was streamed on Facebook live.
Chika (Amara) Ugwoke, senior health care assistant at Pitkerro Care Centre, said Johanna was like a mother to her.
She said: “Words cannot describe the pain and sadness your death brought to me my Mama…J. You were a priceless Gold, full of understanding, kindness and laughter.
“You were a humble teacher and a leader. I pray that you are happy wherever you are.”
Prisca Katsande, home manager at Pitkerro, said: “Everyone at Pitkerro Care Centre has been left heartbroken following the loss of nurse Johanna Daniels.
“She was an incredibly kind-hearted, selfless and dedicated person who will be missed by all who knew her.
“We are so grateful to have had the opportunity to work alongside Johanna and we cannot thank her enough for her deep commitment to our residents and her fellow staff.
“Our thoughts are with her family and many friends at this challenging time.”
