21 Nov 2025

As the sun rises, the community of Thamaga, at Kontle/Ga-Motswere ward and the nation are still reeling in shock following the sudden passing of a cherised photographer of note, Godfrey Mpuse, a brother to many, devoted husband and father to not only his children, but the entire community.

With lowered heads and hearts still filled with pain and sorrow, it was difficult to find the right words to describe his persona, more so that they were confronted with the reality of facing life without him.

In an interview on Wednesday, family members described him as a man of many fronts. He was everything that the family and the nation desired in a man. His elder sister, Ms Mmawillie Mpuse said Goddy, as he was affectionately called, was a loving and caring person.

She said he grew up being spoiled mainly by his mother who loved him more and always brought him the nicest things while other salivated.

Ms Mpuse said while they were growing up, their mother would bring some sweets with her, and the first person to get a share was Godfrey because the mother loved him dearly. She added that Godfrey felt like he was the youngest even though he had a younger brother.

She hastened to say that Godfrey was too afraid to face danger, and his younger brother who was always around and willing to help, often came to his rescue. Ms Mpuse said he was never interested in physical brawls or fighting, more so that the mother was always there to protect him.

His uncle, Mr Seakgano Moarabi described Godfrey as a friendly person.

“He was a loving person, a unifier and a community builder who always wanted people to live in peace and harmony,” he said.

Mr Moarabi described his nephew as a hard worker who cared for others more than one can imagine. He said even in their ward, he was always available and willing to partake in social activities.

He said Godfrey was a child they loved and cherished, always sent on endless errands on behalf of the family and fully executed them without questioning.

The aunt, Ms Gasenoga Mompati said Godfrey was a cheerful person who loved everyone and his mother dearly. She said whenever he visited his mother, he would not leave without passing by her house.

Ms Boipelo Ramphana, one of Godfrey’s relatives described him as a man who wanted perfection and things to be done orderly. She recollected the sweet memories of his wedding which was one of the best she has ever seen. 

“We worked together to put forth a memorable wedding just as he wanted it to be,” she said.

Ms Ramphana said Godfrey was a visionary, a man who wanted to leave inheritance for his children. She added that he was a generous person and would go all out to assist his siblings. Ms Ramphana said the death of her nephew had left wound in their hearts that would  take time heal.

Another family member, Mr Shosha Leso described Godfrey as a visionary, the man one would find comfort, who also worked with eagerness to see developments happening in their community.

He concurred with other speakers that Godfrey was helpful to many people in the community and his presence would be missed by his family, friends and the nation.

His niece, Ms Marea Mpuse described him as a caring and loving person. She said her uncle was unifier, with the demeanor that attracted many to associate with and get comfort in gatherings where he was present, a man who wanted people happy all the time, a leader of repute and orderliness.

Ms Mpuse said they would forever miss his cheerfulness, compassion, care and love. ENDS