She Prayed Until Her Last Breath, Family Mourns Mother Killed After Church Service

 The family of a 62-year-old woman who perished in the horrific road accident that claimed 12 lives on the R81 near Ga-Sekgopo in Limpopo says they will forever remember her as a prayer warrior whose faith defined her life until its tragic end.

The accident which occurred on Sunday afternoon involved a minibus taxi carrying congregants returning from a church conference. Authorities confirmed that the vehicle collided head-on with a truck, igniting a fiery crash that left families shattered and communities reeling.

For the Mohlala family the loss of their matriarch affectionately known as Mme Mmapule is immeasurable. Speaking with heavy hearts her eldest son described her as the backbone of the family and a woman whose mornings began with hymns and evenings ended with whispered prayers.

She prayed until her last breath. Even when she had nothing she always gave thanks to God he said. We find comfort knowing she left this world while returning from God work.

Community members in Ga-Sekgopo echoed these sentiments calling her a mother not only to her children but to the wider village. Neighbours recalled how her small home often became a gathering place for prayer meetings offering spiritual refuge to those in distress.

Transport Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga has since expressed her condolences calling the crash a national tragedy that underscores the urgent need to curb reckless driving and improve road safety. Limpopo authorities have launched an investigation with preliminary reports suggesting fatigue and speeding may have been contributing factors.

The South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO) also extended its sympathies urging operators to prioritise passenger safety particularly during long-distance religious and cultural trips.

Funeral arrangements for the 12 victims are underway with local churches planning a joint memorial service later this week. For the Mohlala family however the preparations are bittersweet. Our mother was supposed to lead us in prayer this Sunday said her youngest daughter wiping away tears. Now we will be praying for her.

As the community gathers to mourn, her story stands as a reminder of the fragility of life on South Africa’s roads and of a woman who, in the words of her family never stopped believing, even in her final journey.