The Shongwe mass funeral service was held on Sunday, 2nd January 2022 at Mbikwa Cindi Hall in Daveyton where mourners came in larger numbers to show their last respect to the deceased.
The service was honoured by The City of Ekurhuleni, the Ekurhuleni Executive Mayor’s office and Mayor Tania Campell, Political parties, Bishops and all Clergymen and women, the B3 funeral services and the Daveyton community at large.
The accident took place on the Schoemanskloof Road where a Toyota sedan and a Volkswagen hatchback collided and claimed six lives and a three-year-old girl who survived the accident. Among those who lost their lives was a one-year-old boy, four adults of the Shongwe family and Zandile Mazibuko the daughter-in-law of the Shongwe family who was pregnant at the time of the incident.
According to the spokesperson of the family, Nhlanhla X. Shongwe explained to Ekurhuleni News that the deceased were on their way to Nelspruit after the late Sibongile Shongwe Kubayi and late Nomgqibelo Shongwe were summoned to attend a family ceremony in Nelspruit, it was with sadness that their souls perished before they even got to their destination.
“As a family, we were very shocked and heartbroken when we received the news, and we are in pain about the death of our loved ones, especially in such a horrible circumstance. We usually see these kinds of accidents on TV and never thought one day it will hit home,” said Shongwe.
The family describes the deceased as loving, caring, energetic and supportive. They were always there for the family when they were needed. They had their own special traits, it is for this reason that they will be always cherished and loved.
Prior to the accident, the Shongwe family had a family gathering on Christmas day in Hammanskraal where they were in unity and in a joyous mood.
“The way we were so happy we didn’t know that we were saying our goodbyes to some of the family members. Everyone was free-spirited and excited, it is one of the remarkable days that we will remember as a family”.
The shongwe family would like to give their sincere and heartfelt gratitude to the support received when they were at their lowest, from the time they received the horrific passing of their loved ones till the last day.
By Simphiwe Nkosi
