In memoriam: Dinah Veeris(1939-2024), guardian of Curaçao’s herbal heritage

It is with deep sadness that we share the news of Dinah Veeris’ passing. Dinah, a well-known herbalist from Curaçao, died on Wednesday September 4, 2024, at the age of 85. She was born in 1939 and dedicated her life to preserving and sharing the knowledge of medicinal plants on the island.

Botanical garden Den Paradera

In 1991, she realized her dream by creating Den Paradera, a botanical garden that became a place of healing and learning. This garden is home to many plants that have been used for generations in traditional medicine. Dinah’s work helped keep this important part of Curaçao’s heritage alive.

Danki pueblo di Kòrsou – Dinah Veeris

In her final message on Facebook, Dinah expressed her gratitude to everyone who helped her make her dream come true. She thanked the people of Curaçao for their support and said that her time had come to take care of the “heavenly garden.” Dinah also shared that she was passing on the responsibility of the garden to her children, who will continue her important work.

Dinah’s legacy will live on through her garden and the knowledge she preserved. Her contributions to herbal medicine and her love for Curaçao will not be forgotten.