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Long-time Red Beach resident Simonne Marie Dyer died suddenly on November 29, surrounded by family.
Simonne was a much-loved mother and grandmother and a familiar face across the Hibiscus Coast community, where she dedicated much of her life to service.
A pastor at Gateway Church on the Hibiscus Coast, friends Frank Rigg and Graham Braddock say her faith was central to her life and shaped her commitment to helping others, both locally and overseas. She also served as president of Grey Power Hibiscus Coast, advocating for older residents and keeping members informed and engaged.
Before settling on the Coast, Simonne spent 15 years working aboard the hospital ship Anastasis with Mercy Ships. During that time she served in the Caribbean, including Jamaica and the Dominican Republic, and was on hand during the 1985 Mexico earthquake. It was through this work that she met her second husband, Bob Dyer, an eye surgeon from San Diego who volunteered on the ship. He later joined her full time, and together they continued their humanitarian work.
In the early 1990s Simonne was appointed chief executive of the Anastasis, overseeing missions throughout West Africa. Under her leadership, the ship provided life-changing surgery to thousands of people. She also raised funds to establish a women-only operating theatre in Ghana, helping address the high number of women and babies dying in childbirth due to limited medical facilities.
Her connection to Ghana extended beyond medical missions. Simonne was honoured with the title of Queen Mother of the Ga tribe in the Tema district, recognising her contribution to the local community.
From 2000, she also led development work in East Timor through the Heta Trust, focusing on the village of Laulora. Over more than two decades, the project rebuilt homes, improved access to fresh water, installed toilets, delivered hygiene education and renovated schools. She travelled regularly to the region alongside friend Joan Bays.
Simonne maintained a strong interest in public life and international affairs. In 2009 she stood as a candidate for the Kiwi Party in the Mt Albert electorate.
Friends from Gateway Church say she will be remembered for her compassion, determination and unwavering belief in practical action to improve people’s lives. She will be greatly missed by her family, friends and the wider community.
