FAMILY, friends and pupils gathered in Mofolo South, Soweto on Saturday, 2 September to pay their final respects to Siphiwe Moloi.
The 11-year-old died on Sunday, 27 August after he fell into a Johannesburg Water contractor's site. This after he tried to fetch a soccer ball which had fallen into a hole filed with water while he was playing with his friends.
Siphiwe took off his clothes and walked into the water without realising how deep it was. He then disappeared into the water at around 10am and his body was recovered after five hours.
During the funeral service, which was held at Siphiwe's home, various speakers described Siphiwe as a God-fearing child, who had already accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and personal saviour when he met his demise.
"Siphiwe paved his way with God. It's like he knew he wouldn't live until 20," said a pastor.
ALSO READ| Joburg fire: My friend died in his bed
Ward 37 Councillor, Papi Chetsanga, said they currently find themselves in a battle of losing young people.
"These young people were supposed to be writing their own books. At any point in life, you are writing a story. Siphiwe was around a loving family; he grew up in a family with love and kindness. It's very heartbreaking to lose such a young person. Our condolences can never comfort the family. Only the one above can do that," said Chetsanga.
Family members read out messages on the flowers and one of them read: "We will forever love you and miss you."
Siphiwe's obituary read as follows:
I Siphiwe Tshepo Moloi was a learner at eGugu Primary School. I am sad that I left you at a time like this, but it was the will of God. I love you family, friends and my fellow learners. I will be with my forefathers.
Siphiwe leaves behind his parents, siblings and relatives. He was laid to rest at Oliphantvlei Cemetery.
The family received an undertaker and funeral package paid by the contractors responsible for the hole in which the young boy fell into.
