Julia Munyai (48), the late wife of Makhado Municipality's mayor, Samuel Munyai, was described as a loving, friendly and hardworking woman whose contributions towards the development of her community would forever be remembered. Munyai died at her home in Tshakhuma on 8 April after a long sickbed and was buried at the Tshakhuma Cemetery last Saturday (15 April).
Munyai, who had worked at the Vhembe District Municipality's Facilities Department for the past seven years, was fondly remembered by everyone who knew her. The funeral service was attended by members of the national parliament, led by the Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, ANC members, workers, friends and family members.
Addressing the mourners during the service, Minister Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said that losing an employee of Munyai's calibre was sad. "Her departure is a great loss to both the family, the community and to us as her employers. We have lost a dedicated official who was truly committed to her duties. To the family, we know that it is very painful to lose a loved one and we will give you some space to grieve. Grieving will ease your pain, although it will take time to heal from this painful tragedy," said Ntshavheni.
Mayor Munyai thanked the government, municipality and community for their support in their hour of mourning. "Although we are mourning, we are thankful for your support. We have seen you assisting the family from the first day our loved one passed on. This clearly demonstrates that you are full of love, care and responsibility. We don't have enough words to thank everyone who has been with us in this difficult time," he said.