A heartfelt farewell for Alberton mother and son

On December 8, the halls of Doxa Deo Meyersdal echoed with sorrow and love as family and friends gathered to say their final farewells to Nadine Terblanche (32) and Ruandré Vorster (9).

The mother and her son were murdered on November 27.

The occasion was marked by Pastor Darius Prinsloo’s touching reflections on life, death and the enduring theme of hope.

The church, filled with the learners and staff from Laerskool Randhart on one side, stood witness to the emotional farewells as the two white coffins were solemnly carried out. After the service, doves, which are symbols of peace and remembrance, were let go and everyone watched them soar into the sky.

Prinsloo spoke about the importance of finding hope in the face of profound grief. He said while preparing for the service the word “hope” kept on coming up in his head. “The meaning of the name Nadine is hope,” he said.

A touching memorial video of Ruandré and Nadine also played during the service where people could go back down memory lane.

Nadine will be remembered for the boundless care she had for others. She loved her children deeply and would do anything for her family and friends. She was compassionate, funny and loving.

Ruandré was a real warrior and champion because he won his fight against cancer. He faced adversity with courage, always wearing a smile that lit up the darkest days. He will be remembered as the young boy who always lit up a room with his presence and who always made everyone smile.

Heartfelt letters from loved ones were read aloud, highlighting the impact Nadine and Ruandré had on those around them.

The procession then made its way to the Alberton Cemetery for the final chapter of this journey. At the gravesite, the coffins of Nadine and Ruandré were placed side by side. Friends decorated Ruandré’s coffin with a touching tribute, a dinosaur, rugby ball, and soft toys nestled among white roses. On Nadine’s coffin were white roses and a delicate teddy bear made of roses.

Nadine leaves behind a legacy cherished by her parents, daughter, partner and a circle of family and friends who will forever hold her in their hearts.

Ruandré’s departure leaves an emptiness felt deeply by his father, Rynart, aunt Carla, Cherié Vorster, grandmother Elize, grandfather Nico and the many lives he touched with his presence.

As the community gathers to mourn the loss of Nadine Terblanche and Ruandré Vorster, their memory lives on in the collective hearts of those who knew and loved them.

WATCH: Alberton community mourns death of mom and son