The Selborne College community is mourning the loss of one of its most dedicated and beloved sons, Alan Parsons, who passed away on Thursday April 10, after suffering a severe stroke.
Parsons was a cherished old boy and long-serving staff member whose contribution to the institution extended far beyond the school gates. He served as the executive director and past president of the Old Selbornian Association, giving generously of his time, energy and heart to the school he loved so dearly.
Parsons is survived by his son Luke, his brothers Peter and Roger and the rest of his family.
Selborne College posted a statement on their Facebook page, saying: “Alan’s role at Selborne College was never just a job, it was a calling.
“He had a remarkable way of bringing people together, with quiet humility, a warm smile, and a deep love for the college that was evident in everything he did.”
As a pupil, Parsons left a lasting mark. He was a prefect, colours recipient for both rugby and rowing, part of the Old Guard and contributed to the ‘In Black and White’ school newspaper.
His involvement with the school community continued in later years, where he not only coached rugby but was also instrumental in media and communications, live streaming school events, and compiling weekly sporting results for wider distribution. He played a vital role in the photographic society and spearheaded several signature events, including the annual Old Selbornian Association golf day fundraiser and the much-loved spit braai on founders’ weekend.
Parson’s friends, family and peers shared many tributes for Parson on social media, sharing heartfelt stories and memories that they have shared with him throughout the years.
“Alan truly embodied the qualities that I believe Selborne stands for; grit, determination, humility, and resilience, One of our fellow Selbornians in a 1981 WhatsApp group summed it up perfectly: Alan was ‘Mr. Selborne,” wrote Old Boy Darryl Vides wrote, while another tribute, from Mbasa Tsetsana, described Parsons as a true and stellar human being and gentleman with a heart of humility, servitude, love and gold.
Warren Darley of the Old Boys Western Cape described him as a loyal servant to the College and the many Old Boys over the years.
“Alan was a voice of reason in a world of uncertainty and Selborne will miss his manner and contributions to all things Selbornian,” said Darley.
