“I’m beyond grief, sadness”

The only solace Dr Joseph Diescho has is that Jesus understands how he feels about the death of his close friend, prominent Anglican lay chaplain and businesswoman Ntombekhaya Yvonne September.

“Seven days and four hours ago I received two calls informing me that my friend was no more, Diescho said yesterday. “I’m not at the stage of grief yet. I’m beyond grief, sadness or mourning.

“I am angry… at the way society functions, at South Africa for the manner we go on with our business. I am angry at God,” he poured out of his heart.

Diescho was one of the people who paid tribute to September during a memorial service at St Alban’s Cathedral in Schoeman Street, Pretoria, yesterday.

The 45-year-old woman’s body was found in her Waterkloof home on January 6 after her domestic worker could not enter the house for two days.

Pretoria Anglican Bishop Jo Seoka had to call a locksmith to open the door before he and the worker discovered September lying face down on her bed.

Mourners yesterday packed the church, with white bouquets and lilac ribbons bordering a portrait of a woman who had clearly touched many lives. Pictures of her as a young girl, a pupil, student and later businesswoman flashed on screens.

Diescho said he was trying to understand, saying that even the Son of God, before He died, experienced anger, anxiety and despair, asking why God had forsaken him.

Another friend, Nonzame Sodladla said she prayed for strength, as there were so many memories of her and September together.

Pointing to where the two of them used to sit in church, Sodladla recalled how her friend loved to laugh, and how they prayed together every Wednesday. “Her maturity in spiritual growth amazed me.

“She was my rock when I lost my brother. My birthday was on August 10. I did not know it would be my last birthday with her.

“She invited me to breakfast at her house,” Sodladla smiled.

Then, fighting the tears, she added: “Funny thing is, I discussed my own funeral with her, telling her how I wanted it and if she would take care of my son. So this is very strange”. As she walked back to her seat, Sodladla repeated: “I love you. I love you.”

September’s younger brother, Dumisani, reminded all that, as Christians, they believed that death turned into victory, that there was eternal life after death.

“My sister loved laughing. She had an infectious smile. I always respected her bravery, how she devoted most of her life to serving Jesus Christ.”

As he choked on the tears, someone in the congregation started singing. All joined in until he had gathered his composure again.

Being involved in several companies and organisations, including the Basil Read construction company, the Omukunda Development Network and a shelter, several of her colleagues and work associates also sang her praises. All agreed that she was humble, yet dynamic, dedicated and “a shining light”.

September will be buried at the Pretoria East Cemetery tomorrow. The funeral service will be held in St Alban’s Cathedral. - Pretoria News