A sombre mood has engulfed the village of Tshituni in the Nzhelele area, following the death of a prominent community member. Mr Daniel Lavhelesani Ravhidziwa (80), affectionately known as "The Carpenter," passed away on 19 November at Elim Hospital after a long illness.
Ravhidziwa was widely regarded as a Good Samaritan, known for his generosity in donating wheelchairs to people with disabilities who could not afford them. His nickname, "The Carpenter," reflected his skill in the trade.
Vhamusanda Vho Nnzudzeni Netshituni described Ravhidziwa as a dedicated community builder and a versatile individual. "Ravhidziwa was a great community builder and a jack-of-all-trades," he said.
He further lauded him as a humble servant of the community, a simple yet gracious and decent father. "He had great faith and was deeply grounded in his Christian beliefs, which made him a man of integrity," he said.
The deceased's daughter, Ms Vuledzani Ravhidziwa, said the family had hoped her father would recover and continue his work in the community. "We are saddened by his passing because we, as a family, and many community members depended on his wisdom and advice in this village," she said.
She described her father as a remarkable man whose contributions would be remembered forever. "I am proud to be the offspring of a man regarded as one of the greatest leaders Vhembe has ever produced," she said.
Ravhidziwa will be laid to rest at Tshituni tsha Ntha on Friday, 29 November, at 10:00.