Sebokeng was overcome with grief and heartbreak as family members, friends, classmates, and community members gathered to bid a final farewell to 16-year-old Buhle Radebe, a Grade 11 learner from Hoërskool Vanderbijlpark, who tragically lost her life in the devastating Vaal scholar transport accident.
The funeral service, held in Sebokeng, was marked by uncontrollable tears, heartfelt prayers, and worship songs that echoed through the venue as mourners struggled to come to terms with the loss of such a young life. Buhle was one of the 14 learners who died when the scholar transport taxi they were travelling in collided with a truck along the Golden Highway on Monday, a tragedy that has shaken the nation and reignited concerns over learner transport safety.
Buhle was remembered by those who knew her as a lively, loving, and kind-hearted teenager whose presence brought warmth to every room she entered. Friends described her as bubbly and full of life, someone who always wore a smile and never hesitated to uplift others. Teachers and classmates spoke of her dedication to her schoolwork and her respectful nature, saying she had a promising future ahead of her.
One of the most emotional moments of the service came when Buhle’s mother, widely known on social media as the “Lady in Red,” addressed mourners. With a trembling voice and visible pain, she described her daughter as a devoted prayer warrior whose faith went beyond her years. She shared how Buhle would often lead prayers at home and encourage even older family members to trust God during difficult times.
Her testimony moved the congregation to tears as she reflected on how painful it was to lose her child while seeing her image circulate on social media. Despite her heartbreak, she spoke words of faith and hope, reminding mourners that Buhle lived a life rooted in prayer and love.
Pastors and church leaders who led the service emphasized the importance of unity and compassion during this painful time. They called on communities and authorities to ensure that such tragedies are prevented in the future, especially when it comes to the safety of learners who rely on scholar transport every day.
The atmosphere was heavy with sorrow as Buhle’s white coffin was carried to its final resting place. She was laid to rest at Jacob Skop Cemetery in Sebokeng, where family members wept openly, struggling to let go of a daughter, sister, and friend taken far too soon.
As the soil covered her grave, mourners released white balloons into the sky, symbolising Buhle’s pure spirit and the love that will continue to live on in the hearts of those she touched. Her death has left a deep wound in the Sebokeng community and beyond, serving as a painful reminder of how fragile life can be.
Gone too soon, Buhle Radebe will be remembered not only for how she died, but for how she lived — with faith, kindness, and a heart full of love. 
