Mourners from around the province and surrounding areas met at the homestead of the Sikhwivhilu family of Ngovhela last Saturday (8 October) to pay their last respects to the late Mukegulu Vho-Elinah Ralinala Sikhwivhilu (104).
Granny Elinah was born in 1918 as part of the Ralinala royal family and married into the Sikhwivhilu royal family. She died at her home at Ngovhela on 3 October, following a long illness, and was buried at Tshiendeulu Tsha Ha-Ralinala Dopeni village.
Mourners described her as a woman of humour, respectful of others, friendly, very humble and a dedicated community builder.
According to community leader Mr Thinandavha Khampha, Granny Elinah was a pioneer, a born leader and a woman of vision. He said her passing had left the family and whole community with heavy hearts because she had been such an influential figure in the area.
He urged everyone to follow the good example set by Granny Elinah. "Her passing will undoubtedly leave a void too difficult to fill. Not only in the family, but also in our leadership structures," he said.
Her granddaughter, Ms Mashudu Sikhwivhilu, said: "My grandmother was a very dignified woman, but lived life to the fullest. Her death is hard on us all, but we will remember her time with us. She made sure that all her family members received education as she believed that it was the only tool that could bring development to the community. For so many years she served selflessly and faithfully, making herself available day and night to all who needed her," she said.