Picture: The tombstone damaged at Lokgabeng/Facebook
By OBAKENG MAJE
The Serolong family in Lokgabeng village, near Taung, was left dejected after their tombstones were vandalised by unknown people just a week after the unveiling.
Lesego Serolong said they held a successful ceremony on 30 September 2023 in honour of their grandfather, Daniel Masasa Serolong, grandmother, Sophie Galoname Serolong, and her father, Goitseone Staross Serolong.
She said Sophie was a philanthropist who contributed positively to the society. Lesego further said her grandmother as a teacher and a leader of society, always vanguard for a change is the lives of many.
“Sophie studied at the icon Tigerkloof near Vryburg and became a teacher a few years later. She taught at various schools across the country, including at Setshwarapelo Primary School in Lokgabeng. She was also involved in community work and as a leader of a Girl Guide initiative, she mentored a lot of girls.
“She advocated for education and this was a form of celebrating her legacy and influence, hence we did the celebration ceremony at her house. The celebration also included the unveiling of my father, Goitseone Staross Serolong’s tombstone, who was affectionately known as Motlotlegi Chesa in a Setswana drama during the Bophuthatswana era,” said Lesego.
She further said, her father was also a soldier by profession and a remarkable individual. Lesego added that Staross’ teachings and love, resonated uniquely and strongly.
“They left an irreplaceable void that only Christ can console. His distinct presence illuminated our lives. Every moment spent in his company is treasured and left a tapestry of memories woven with care and warmth.
“This also goes to the legacy that Daniel and Sophie left behind. She was a beacon of light that will forever inspire. Rakgadi’s unwavering faith and bundles of love enriched our lives and shaped our paths,” she said.
Lesego said they now have a scholar program under Sophie Serolong Umbrella, where they provide bursaries to young people. She said they were shattered after they were informed about the vandalism.
“We call on community members to assist with any information to ensure that culprits are brought to book. There might be a reward because I think it is not fair to destroy gravesites.
“We cannot fold our arms and let criminals target the sacred grounds. What surprises us is that nothing was stolen but some people just decided to vandalise those tombstones with a hammer for no apparent reason or only known to them,” said Lesego.
Meanwhile, the North West police spokesperson in Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati cluster, Warrant Officer Tryphosa van Rooyen said: “Yes, there is a criminal case that was opened and investigations are underway. The damages are estimated at R20 000.”
The Guardian 