'Daddy' laid to rest

GRAAFF-REINET NEWS - The St. Phillips Anglican Church at uMasizakhe was packed as the community of Graaff-Reinet and surrounding areas as far as Upington, Knysna, Middelburg, Noupoort and Murraysburg attended the burial service for the late Bhuti "Eddie" Edward Mhaba to pay their last respects.

The funeral service was conducted by Rev Klaas of the St Phillips Anglican Church in uMasizakhe.

Mhlaba was affectionately known as "Daddy," while his teammates from the ABC rugby team called him "Pres," as he was President of the team for life.

He worked at Botha's Garage as a petrol attendant for many years until he retired.

Family members said he will be remembered as a very caring, soft-spoken and a God-loving person.

Thembekile Nabo, who did the eulogy, said about Bhuti: "I stand here today to speak about a struggle activist, a father, a visionary leader par excellence, a unifier, a teacher and an administrator.The St Phillips Anglican Church at uMasizakhe was packed as the community paid their last respects to the late Bhuti "Eddie" Edward Mhaba. Photos: Neco Bokwe

These are just some of the attributes displayed by our President."

"Bhuti Eddie was also a sports activist, a rugby fanatic, a humble sportsman, a gallant fighter for the freedom of sport and a community builder. Tata uMhaba was a selfless leader who was not a boss but a true leader.

"He was a humble person, a leader with integrity, a leader who had an enormously positive impact on young people who later in their lives became MPs, MECs, professionals, businessmen and women," Nabo said.

Thembekile Nabo, who spoke on behalf of the ABC Rugby Club, delivered a passionate eulogy at the church service for Edward Mhaba.