Murdered deputy principal’s husband speaks out
“My wife's death destroyed me to the core of my being. It hurts more than any other agony Iven ever felt."
Whether a partner dies suddenly or after a protracted illness, losing a spouse can be traumatic.
ALSO READ: Shock as deputy principal is gunned down
Wiseman Ngendane, the husband of deputy principal of Phomolong Secondary School, Thembisile Ngendane (50), has been overwhelmed by her sudden death.
Ngendane was killed when three suspects shot and killed the deputy principal on January 21.
This has had a significant impact on the lives of the school learners, staff, family and friends.
Ngendane paid homage to her by saying she was unshakeable in her Christian faith and a rock in their family and others’ lives.
“My wife’s death destroyed me to the core of my being. It hurts more than any other agony I’ve ever felt. My emotions, mind, and life have been left with an emptiness that is filled with agony. We had a fantastic and blessed life together for over 20 years.
“My wife was my closest friend, with whom I would share everything. “Now I am alone with our two children.
“I miss her. I feel as if a piece of me is missing. It’s difficult to accept her death.
“Nothing is more viscerally accurate than the reality that a person who has lost a loved one to a crime has gone through unimaginable pain. This is why I hope the police find the criminals who killed my wife and that justice is done,” said Ngendane
The deputy principal has been remembered for her support of the learners at the Phomolong school.
“She instilled not only academic knowledge but also shared ethical principles and embedded morality, transforming the learners’ and personalities,” Ngendane said.
Her death also saddened Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga, who visited the school, after her murder. She also advised the learners to do their best in the face of adversity.
“I’d like to express to the school teachers and learners that their suffering is our suffering,” said Motshekga.
According to communications officer Sgt Moremi at Rabie Ridge SAPS, Ngendane was gunned down when she was driving out of the school gate.
“Three gunmen allegedly shot her three times through the passenger window when they appeared out of nowhere.
“She then jumped out of her vehicle in an attempt to avoid the hail of bullets, but she fell beside the car. While she was on the ground, one of the shooters allegedly shot her again and then fled without taking anything from her,” said Moremi.
“Our psychosocial unit visited the school on January 24 to conduct counselling and support to all those affected by this incident. She was a dedicated, industrious teacher who was also well-liked by many in the school and community,” said Gauteng education spokesperson Steve Mabona.
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