Consternation as no grave prepared for burial

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GEORGE NEWS AND VIDEO - The Papama family in George, in bereavement after the death of a beloved mother and grandmother, received a nasty surprise when they heard that no grave had been prepared for the burial that would have taken place today, Saturday 28 January.

Local family members and all the family who travelled from afar to attend the funeral, are gathered together now in Lawaaikamp at the family home, all consternated and not knowing what to do.

The deceased, Mrs Nomathafa Deborah Papama (81), passed away last week Thursday and is to be buried at the George Cemetery.

According to a grandson, Mmeli Sotshononda, Dove Funeral Services apparently forgot to book and dig the grave. "They only called after 16:00 yesterday (Friday 27 January) when the municipality had already closed. We are not able to do anything about it and we have of course made extensive arrangements and done meal preparations. My other grandmother is so upset, she has been in tears the whole morning," said Sotshononda.

He said Dove sent his grandmother's body to the family home, but then recalled it. "They are causing so much indignity. To go through such an ordeal in our time of grief is so unnecessary. I would like to know how Dove feels about the service they are giving."

The family is contemplating holding a memorial service today and the burial on Monday or Tuesday, when the grave can be prepared. Family members who travelled here will be extending their bus tickets to enable them to attend.

Dove regional manager Riana Rosendal was contacted. She promised that the matter would be resolved. "We are on our way to the family, but cannot provide any more details at the moment," she said.