09 May 2025 Obituary: Dr Aubrey Parsons
Many in the food industry will be saddened to hear of Aubrey Parson’s passing, truly the loss of an industry icon. Sharon Bolel, executive director of SAAFFI, has penned this lovely and apt tribute to him….
Dr Aubrey Parsons …. Kind. Humble. Brilliant. Beloved.
It is with deep sadness and profound respect that we at SAAFFI share the news of the passing of Aubrey Parsons, a truly extraordinary man whose life touched countless others across the globe.
Aubrey passed away on Wednesday 7 May 2025, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, wisdom, and inspiration that will continue to resonate for generations.
A loyal and unwavering friend of SAAFFI [and SAAFoST] since its inception, Aubrey involved himself in the activities of the Association with his hallmark passion and enthusiasm, serving on the management committee, speaking at many SAAFFI conferences and mentoring many people in the sector.
Aubrey, a beacon of kindness, humility, and brilliance, was not only a scholar of remarkable intellect — holding, two doctorates and three master’s degrees — but also a man of uncommon grace and gentleness. His sharp mind was matched only by the warmth of his heart and the generosity of his spirit.
He received the University of Johannesburg Rector’s Medal for Outstanding Achievement, a fitting recognition for someone who gave his life in service of knowledge, mentorship, and the betterment of others.
Aubrey enjoyed a long and distinguished career in the flavour, fragrance, food, and cosmetic industries, where he was highly respected for his vast expertise and visionary insights. His contributions to these fields were both pioneering and profound, benefiting countless companies, colleagues, and consumers over the decades.
A lifelong educator, Aubrey dedicated much of his time to Technikon Witwatersrand, which later became the University of Johannesburg (UJ). There, he taught and mentored generations of students, many of whom still speak of him with deep affection and gratitude.
To them, he was not only a teacher, but also a mentor, guide, and lifelong friend. Despite his accolades, it was his humanity that people admired most.
Aubrey travelled to many countries, forging friendships, sharing knowledge, and learning from every culture he encountered. He was a global citizen in the truest sense — curious, open-hearted, and endlessly respectful of diversity. Whether speaking with a student, a stranger, or a head of state, he made every person feel heard, valued, and important.
Aubrey is survived by his daughter, Des dos Santos, one granddaughter, and three great-grandchildren. His love for his family was boundless. Aubrey was a devoted and attentive husband to his late wife, Arlene, who passed away in December 2020. They were married for 65 years.
He is mourned by his bereft family, a global community of friends, former students, and colleagues. His impact is immeasurable, and his absence will be deeply felt.
In celebrating his life, we remember a man who truly lived — who gave, taught, listened, and loved with all his heart. May his memory be a blessing, and may we honour his legacy by striving to be as kind, curious, and compassionate as he was.
A memorial service for the late Dr Aubrey Parsons will be held at 10h00 on 13 May at Martin’s Funeral Chapel, 564 Ontdekkers Rd, Florida.