Thomas Sithole, 17, was with his friends at the time of his disappearance. His friends claim they only noticed he was missing after the cruise had ended. 

His body was recovered after a two-day search. A memorial service was held for him on Thursday at the Kompas-gemeente in Vanderbijlpark.

The memorial was attended by learners from different schools, churchmates, his friends, and his family. “We should have gratitude for the 17 years he was here and so many fond memories we have of him," said his rugby coach.

Thomas Sithole will be laid to rest on Saturday (24/1). Photo:Vaalweekblad

“Just speaking now, I’m thinking about his laugh, and how he would change the whole training session when he laughed.” The coach shared Psalm 34 verse 18: “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” 

His friends went up and shared their memories of him, describing him as a free-spirited individual who was wise at times, would make them laugh until their stomachs hurt, and was always there for them.

One of his teachers recalled the great conversations they’d always have after school, as Thomas would go to her class every day after school, just to say hi and beg to wash her car.

The body of Thomas was found on Monday, 12 January, by two boys on jet skis near the bridge at Stonehaven on the Vaal. 

Thomas was allegedly last seen during the cruise with a group of friends, who claim they realised he was missing when the boat was returning to its destination.

The incident reportedly happened at around 18:00, but his parents were only notified four hours later.

At the memorial service, his sister stood up and spoke strong words to the alleged perpetrator. “For those whose actions or inactions may have contributed towards Junior’s death, it is important you know we do not wish bad upon you; we would never want pain to follow you as it has followed us. 

“But I also cannot say we wish you well, so we stand here in the middle of that truth, we wish you no harm, but we offer no blessings. May the mercy of God be far, far away from you, and as you walk away, may his spirit haunt you. May it remind you a life still learning how to exist was cut short.”

These words were strongly condemned by the community leader, and he said he was “breaking the curse that was said.”

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OFM News/Zenande Mpame dg