18-07-2025
Oldest DHS Old Boy dies at age 102
DURBAN High School (DHS) is mourning the loss of the oldest DHS Old Boy, Selwyn Lurie, who died on Thursday at home, three weeks before his 103rd birthday.
On the school's social media, DHS said, 'Mr Lurie's long and inspiring life was a testament to the enduring spirit of Durban High School. We were honoured to have shared a special moment with him earlier this year, when our boys had the privilege of hearing his heartfelt video message on Founders Day — a message that will now be remembered even more dearly.
'Our thoughts and prayers are with the Lurie family during this time of loss. May his memory continue to inspire generations of DHS boys to come.'
Lurie's passing was confirmed by his family who described him as a person with a lot of energy, love and care. On Facebook, Vanessa Jubiler Lurie said, 'We are heartbroken to share the loss of our beloved father, Selwyn Lurie, this morning July 17, the 21st of Tammuz. Our amazing Pa is now at peace with his beloved wife and our mom Barbara, and their son and our brother Alon. Pa died peacefully in his sleep at home at the age of 102, three weeks before his 103rd birthday.'
Lurie lived a full and interesting life, as a fighter pilot in WW2, builder of Ashkelon in the early days of the state of Israel, CEO of a leading textile manufacturer in South Africa, and the co-founder of Kehillat Ahavat Yisrael in San Diego, US.
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'Pa was the driving force of our family, the best father, grandfather and great-grandfather in the world. Family meant everything to him, and of all his incredible accomplishments, the one he was most proud of was the family he and Ma built. We are honoured and grateful beyond measure to have had such incredible parents, for the endless love they brought to all of us, and for the countless ways in which they helped, guided, supported and adored each of us, our children and our grandchildren,' said Vanessa.
Condolences have been pouring in for the Lurie family. Clifton School in Morningside wrote, 'We share in your grief at the passing of a beloved member of your Old Boys family. May Mr Lurie's dear soul rest in eternal peace.'
Erika Collins said, 'Condolences to his family and friends. Sounds like he achieved a lot in his full life.'
Neil Peter Lamble added, 'What a man, what an amazing innings and what a passionate supporter of his old school DHS. RIP Selwyn – and deepest condolences to your family.'
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