- Keith Grenville, founder of The Egyptian Society of South Africa (TESSA), passed away on 26 August.
- Known for his dedication to Egyptian heritage, Grenville also had a successful career in the performing arts.
- His legacy lives on through the society, which continues to promote understanding of Egypt’s rich culture and history.
“Keith always valued people who made a difference.” This is how Joseph Koetsier, the treasurer of The Egyptian Society of South Africa (TESSA), remembers the late Keith Grenville, the founding member of Society.
Grenville passed away on Monday 26 August. His dedication to preserving Egyptian culture and history has left a lasting impact both within the society and beyond.
Grenville, originally named Benugli, was born in England to a Jewish mother and an Italian Catholic father. He later adopted the stage name Grenville during his successful career in the performing arts. Before moving to South Africa, he was a celebrated Shakespearean actor in the United Kingdom (UK), appearing in various TV productions. His talent earned him prestigious awards, including The Three Leaf Award, the Fleur du Cap Theatre Award for Best Leading Actor in 1978 and Best Director in 1999, as well as the Vita Award for directing “Gulls” in 1987.
READ | The latest print editions of the People’s Post here
Grenville’s passion, however, extended beyond the stage.
His deep fascination with ancient Egypt led him to establish TESSA in 1996.
The society was founded with the mission to explore and understand Egypt’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage, from Cape to Cairo embeded on the society’s mission.
This year, TESSA celebrates its 28th anniversary.
Tour company
The society continues to hold monthly lectures on the first Tuesday of each month, helping members appreciate both ancient and contemporary Egypt.
Koetsier, a member since 2006, fondly remembers Grenville for his presence, voice, his knowledge and his unwavering commitment to the heritage of the countries he visited.
Koetsier said.
Grenville’s passion for Egypt also led him to start his own tour company, Egypt Today. He guided travellers to Egypt’s ancient wonders. His tours expanded to other countries, including Turkey, Russia, Morocco, India, Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia.
Even after stepping down as TESSA chair in 2006 due to ill health, Grenville remained an influential figure in the society. He delivered his final lecture on 22 October 2019, discussing Farouk, the last king of Egypt. Koetsier recalls how Grenville had a unique ability to make history come alive: “He was dedicated to ensuring that the legacy of Egypt endured.”
Grenville’s significant contributions to TESSA and his dedication to Egyptian heritage will be remembered for many years to come. As he once wrote on the occasion of the society’s 21st anniversary, “People should remember the great work that was laid and carry on the tradition.”
Grenville’s life was filled with passion, creativity and dedication. His legacy will continue to inspire those who seek to understand the heart of Africa and beyond.
