Lady Beryl Dunstan, wife of former SA Governor Sir Donald Dunstan, dies aged 100

The wife of one of South Australia’s longest serving leaders has died, leaving behind a remarkable legacy at the age of 100.

Beryl, Lady Dunstan, wife of retiring SA Governor, Sir Donald Dunstan, receiving farewell wishes from the Lady Mayoress Angela Condous, at the National Council of Women cocktail party in Adelaide Town Hall in 1990.

The wife of a revered Army General and South Australia’s longest serving Governor has passed away aged 100.

Lady Beryl Dunstan, wife of late Governor Lieutenant General Sir Donald Dunstan, was born Beryl Dunningham in Sydney and was educated at SCEGGS School, living through the Great Depression and more than a century of change.

Lady Dunstan married Sir Donald upon his return from Japan in 1948 following the Second World War, relocating to South Australia after her husband was posted to Keswick Barracks.

Prince Charles and Diana, Princess of Wales, royal visit to Australia Mar-Apr 1983. Prince Charles and Princess Diana are welcomed by SA Premier John Bannon at Edinburgh RAAF base, watched by Beryl, Lady Dunstan, wife of SA Governor, Sir Donald Dunstan, 05 Apr 1983.

She dedicated her life to supporting her husband as he rose through the Australian Army ranks, serving his country in World War Two, the Korean War and in Vietnam.

Lady Dunstan represented and served the Australian people, while raising sons Richard and Jim, through her involvement with both the Australian Army, during Sir Donald’s time as Chief of Army, and her contributions at Government House in SA.

In 1979, when Sir Donald was elevated to a Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire, Beryl Dunstan became Lady Beryl Dunstan, which was how she was known to the people of South Australia during Sir Donald’s eight year term as Governor.

During that time, the Dunstans hosted politicians, dignitaries and royalty, notably Prince Charles and Princess Diana during their royal visit in 1983.

Former SA Governor Sir Donald Dunstan with wife Lady Berylin 2000.

King Charles and Princess Diana are welcomed by SA Premier John Bannon at Edinburgh RAAF base, watched by Beryl, Lady Dunstan, wife of SA Governor, Sir Donald Dunstan, 05 Apr 1983. Picture: File

She spent her years post-Government House in West Lakes, where she enjoyed sewing, gardening, cooking and tending to her goldfish.

Sir Donald passed away aged 88 in 2011, but Lady Dunstan’s warmth and humour continued to leave a lasting impression on those who knew her.

Lady Dunstan’s notice of passing said she leaves behind a loving family, who are “deeply grateful” for the many years and memories they shared with her over three generations.

“Lady Beryl has now been reunited with her beloved husband and their two sons Richard and Jim, a cherished family together once more,” the notice read.

A private funeral service will be held.