09 Sep 2020

 Lillian Dennison (nee Taunyane), Miss Botswana 1970 has died aged 72. Dennison became Miss Botswana after winning Miss Shoshong in 1970.   

 Confirming her mother’s death during an interview on September 8, Yvonne Moruakgomo said her mother, who was born in Shoshong, died on September 5.

“She died peacefully at Shoshong Clinic after she never completely recovered from a stroke she suffered 20 years ago and another in 2018,” explained Moruakgomo.

Besides being a pageant title holder, Moruakgomo said her mother was also a businesswoman and a philanthropist.

“Her philanthropic work made her a hero in her home village where she was affectionately called Mummy by almost everyone because she was very accommodating,” she added.

Her friend, Dorcus Mokongwa described her as beautiful, loving and caring.

“I’m saying this because, unlike most people out there, Lillian raised many children in Shoshong who were not hers biologically, like her own. She was kind hearted and would go a long way to lend a hand to everyone who needed her help,” said Mokongwa.

“To me, she was not only an important friend, but my pillar and role model. She was my go to person, whether I was in sorrow or happiness, because she was never too busy for anyone, and she welcomed everyone with a beautiful smile, all the time,” she added.

Dennison is survived by her husband, Daniel Dennison, five daughters, 15 grandchildren and two siblings. She will be laid to rest in Shoshong on September 11 (Friday). ENDS