Bernard Mqondisi Mahlangu (65), the long-standing owner of well-known Tomebutsi Funerals and Tombstones and leader of various Community Policing Forums in Mhluzi, has passed away.

The father of five died on November 5 after a brief illness, leaving behind a legacy of community service and inspiration.
Bernard was married to his long-time partner, Ntombi Mahlangu, and left behind five children.

The Middelburg Observer spoke to his daughter, Pearl Mahlangu, who described her father as nothing short of a visionary and a great pillar of the Mhluzi community as a whole. She said they were overwhelmed by the amount of support the community gave them.

Pearl said even when her father was feeling unwell, he still put the needs of the people before his health and made sure to give them the support they needed.

“We will remember him for his acts of service, his love, passion, and bubbly personality. He had a way of lighting up the room. We all smiled and laughed when he was around. And his peaceful heart, he always wanted to be at peace with everyone. He brought families, communities, and churches together.”

She told the Observer that they were devastated, heartbroken, and shocked as a family when they learnt of his passing, and it still feels like a bad dream.

“Many people took him as a father figure. He motivated and inspired a lot of people to dream beyond their imagination and turned them into visionaries. Words are simply not enough to describe him. He was a loving man, he loved us, and he loved his wife‚” said Pearl.

A memorial service in honour of Bernard’s life and the legacy he left behind will be held at the Eric Jiyane Hall in Mhluzi tomorrow (Thursday) at 10:00.
He will be laid to rest on Sunday, with the funeral service being held at the Adelaide Tambo Hall in Mhluzi.

The Mhluzi community, along with friends and family, will gather to pay tribute to the man whose dedication, kindness, and vision continue to resonate.