Posted in News on Jul 23, 2017.
A moving and passionate home-going service was held for ‘Theo’ at a packed Leondale Community Hall in Germiston.
The Amakhosi delegation to the service was led by Supporters Relations Manager, Cecil Motaung. Numerous teammates of Doctor Khumalo in the Kaizer Chiefs legends team were also present, including Abel Shongwe, Wellington Manyathi, Brian Baloyi, Gardner Seale, Derrick Spencer, Stanton Fredericks, Tsepo Molatedi, MacDonald Mukansi and Fabian McCarthy.
The Kaizer Chiefs choir beautifully rendered a variety of songs.
Former Glamour Boy, Ntsie Maphike was one of the speakers at the service, which also included the Minister of Police, Fikile Mbalula.
Theonada Khumalo left behind her daughter Aurora, her husband (Gordon Ashley Mohulatsi), two brothers (Troy and Diego), father, mother, grandmother and her awesome brother, Carl Khumalo, with whom she grew up. Carl had the following to say about his late sister:
“As bubbly as she was, her crazy personality outshined her mood swings. As stunning as she was, she always brought life to a dull moment. A leader of a pack, she always stood firm for what she believed in. Hard headed, direct and outspoken she was, a true loving soldier, who always protected those close to her.”
Cecil Motaung read a message from Amakhosi Chairman, Kaizer Motaung, which was addressed to Doctor Khumalo:
“I am deeply saddened about the passing of your dearest daughter Theonada Livin Khumalo. To lose a child, especially at this tender age, is devastating. I am aware of the love and the bond you shared with Theonada and I can only imagine the pain you are enduring at this moment.
“I was informed of the loving speech she recently rendered at your 50th birthday. May you find strength and peace in this time, including through the beautiful memories you shared together.”
Doctor Khumalo twice “tried to phone” his daughter at the start of a moving tribute. He only got her voice message.
At his 50th birthday party, ‘Theo’ had told Doctor: “My dad is the strictest person I know. He also taught me to work hard. Dad, I can’t thank you enough. I love you so much.”
“The death of a child is like losing your breath,” another speaker mentioned. There was one common theme in all the words spoken - Theonada Livin Khumalo was a humble young woman full of love, with respect for others, always smiling and cheerful.
At the end of his speech, Ntsie Maphike addressed Khumalo directly: “Doctor, we are with you in these trying times.”
The burial was held at the Elspark Cemetery.