Port Augusta’s long-serving mayor Nancy Joy Baluch AM has succumbed to cancer at Port Augusta Hospital, age 80.
She died surrounded by family just before 7pm on May 14.
The iconic mayor had suffered from the disease for more than a decade and although she was frail, she will be remembered for her strength and a pioneer for women in local government.
She served as the mayor of Port Augusta from 1981 to 1993 and from 1995 up until her death.
Deputy mayor Phil Greagen was distraught when he heard news of his close friend's death, calling her his "confidante".
"It wasn't always beer and skittles between us but we had our way of coming to a mutual agreement," he said.
The usual-bustling council chambers was a solemn back drop to staff in mourning, with one staff member saying Mrs Baluch was like family to everyone who worked there.
Do you have a photo of Joy you would like to share with us? Email rholliday@fairfaxmedia.com.au.
She was a fearless campaigner for curbing anti-social behaviour and changing outside perceptions on the city, and more recently dedicated much of her energy to seeing the close of the two coal-fired power stations.
An official ceremony naming the bridge connecting Port Augusta's east and west the Joy Baluch Bridge was planned for Friday and will go ahead as planned in her honour.
Her family, who is expected to attend the ceremony, asked for privacy as they deal with the loss of their mother and grandmother.
In a statement delivered by Port Augusta city manager Greg Perkin the family said, "Right up until Sunday, she was thinking of her community to the end.
"She wanted to live until 100 as she felt her job wasn't finished.
"She said she wanted to see the Central Oval development finished, and the power station closed and Port Augusta put on the world stage for solar thermal.
"The community couldn't ask for more.
"She will be sadly missed not just by us as our dearly beloved mother, but from the community.
"The number of calls we have and the love that has been expressed for her is overwhelming."
If you have a fond memory of Joy Baluch that you would like to share with the community, email kate.bilney@fairfaxmedia.com.au
