Karabo Ntanzi
The funeral service of Xolisani MacDonald Mdunge, the last-born son of Daniel Zamokwakhe Mdunge and Elizabeth Sephiri Mdunge, was held at Tetlanyo High School on Saturday, 18 January 2026.
The hall was vibrating from the rich sound of choristers and a strong presence of the St Joseph Sodality, an indication that they were indeed bidding farewell to one of their own.
Xoli, as he was affectionately known, was schooled at Mankurwane Primary and Green Point Higher Primary and matriculated at Thabane High. He then proceeded to Moremogolo Technical College. He worked at various retail stores until. In 2007 he was appointed Chief Registration Clerk at the Deeds Office in the Department of Land and Rural Development, a position he occupied until his passing.
He was described as soft but stubborn, a proud Zulu man and humanitarian a member of Soldiers of the Cross. “Though thin in stature, Xoli carried a heart larger than his body. He often reminded others to “shake it off,” encouraging them to rise above the hardship and to claim their future with courage and dignity,” proclaimed the neighbour from Ramorwa Street, Simon Kantwani.
The deceased was a talented choral music singer. “With a unique sound which became his signature, although all the brothers sang very well”, a statement made by Cat Mokwena, a renowned Choral Music Conductor.
The 43-year-old was commended for his stylish dress code. Xoli will be remembered as a man whose kindness spoke louder than words. A loving father to his children.
Disebo Koadi, Xoli’s wife, explained that the deceased had been in and out of hospital since 2024 until the time of his death. Her message to her husband was, “You ran the race and you kept your promise.”
A family representative, Kwanelo Leokaoke, indicated that at some stage the family lost a lot of male members through death, pushing the deceased to grow and take responsibility at a young age, including performing family rituals as and when needed. “Xoli stood as a pillar of strength, continuity and hope. We honour his life, generosity and spirit. He may be gone from our sight, but his love, guidance and quietness will remain with us forever,” she lamented. Leokaoke thanked Disebo, the daughter-in-law, for caring for their brother and requested Xoli’s children to love each other.
His neighbours from CRU/1 (a block of flats in Roodepan), Lebogang Hantisi and Tyron, also attested to the kind of man he was and quoted scriptures from the Bible to comfort the family. “He carried himself with style and dignity, presented himself well, and always reminded us that even in simple things, excellence matters,” echoed Tyron’s words.
A childhood friend, Reverend Xoli Ntshontsho, reflected on their friendship and love for choral music. They met at high school, although Ntshontsho was at Tshireleco High; they sang in the same choir, Galeshewe Male Voices and later joined Galeshewe Marvellous Voices.
The duo made a pact that they would be each other’s best man at their respective weddings, a promise which Ntshontsho kept and was looking forward to fulfilling his duty to his friend.
A colleague from the Deeds Office, Unita Frazenberg, said the deceased had a special way of making everyone feel seen and valued. “He carried himself with the highest degree of integrity. His presence brought laughter, music and joy. It is difficult to express in words the depth of the loss we are feeling. He was not just a co-worker but a friend to many, a confidant and a source of encouragement. His kindness, humility and gentle spirit left a lasting mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him”, she testified.
The National Union of Public Service and Allied Workers (NUPSAW) Representative, Tebogo Maarman, indicated that Xoli served with pride. “He stood firmly for the rights and dignity of workers. Known to many as a man of principle and strength, he fought fearlessly for employees’ rights and never hesitated to raise his voice for fairness and equality. His commitment to justice was not only a duty, but a calling”, he said.
Maarman stated that the deceased played a vital role in the negotiations that led to the absorption of 49 general workers into government service.
The Catholic Church Representative, Christopher Modise, confirmed that Xoli was a parishioner at Our Lady of Fatima Shrine, where he received all his sacraments and grew up serving, starting as an Altar Server, Youth and chorister at the Choir. Later on he became a member of the St Joseph Sodality.
Xolisani MacDonald Mdunge, is survived by three siblings, wife, children and preceded by parents and three siblings.
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