Karabo Ntanzi
The Modise household in Bongani Street, Kimberley, will never be the same after the passing of 98-year-old Margareth Girly Modise. Her funeral service took place at Boitshoko Primary School on Sunday, 18 January 2026.
Aunt Girly or Ma Modise, as she was affectionately known, was a dedicated member of the 7th Day Adventist Church for more than five decades. A famous figure within Galeshewe as she was often seen walking around the township, visiting friends, comforting those who lost loved ones or just chat chatting to others and remind them about God’s love.
Described by fellow congregants and community members as a talented singer who led hymns and choruses at the right pitch, with different voices complementing each other.
A loving great-grandmother who adored her grandchildren and a mother to many, caring and offering a safe and stable home to those in need.
She was an avid Bible reader, with a passion for herbs and natural remedies. A plea was made to those who borrowed the deceased’s books to return them to the family. However, she was strict with her books. She would lend you a book today and come to fetch it tomorrow, regardless of whether you read it or not.
“Even during her illness, she read and analysed each medicine before consumption”, confirmed her granddaughter, Thana Sebesho. “Her health started deteriorating in October, yet she carried herself with dignity and strength. Nursing her was not an easy task, but God gave me the strength to endure. Even in her weakest moments, she held tightly to her independence, refusing to eat when she did not want to, nor use a stick or a nappy when offered. That was her nature: strong-willed, proud and determined,” indicated Thana.
Neighbour, Nelly Melaketso, spoke about their relationship of over 30 years, a bond rooted in genuine love. They visited each other often. Even when illness made visits difficult, their connection remained strong. They celebrated their birthdays together and shared harvests from Ma Melaketso’s yard.
A friend, Dabsie Tose said they met in 1971 and have been a family since then. Tose, learned love, faith and responsibility from their relationship. “Aunt Girly was a good mediator who helped settle matters and constantly reminded everyone that God’s love is embedded in the Bible. She was intelligent and could speak different languages. She worked with judges on the Northern Cape Bench during her heyday. Later, she became an Assessor and Translator in the Kimberley High Court. Unfortunately, changes were implemented that required formal qualifications, but she made her mark during her stay. She knew the Bible extensively and had the gift of interpreting not only the law, but also the Scripture. The church has truly lost a devoted member. A unifier who wanted everyone to live in peace, joy and harmony”, said Tose.
Pat Magina, a retired Social Worker at the Department of Social Development, defined her as a woman who strengthened others through her testimony, holding a Bible in one hand and love in the other. Magina indicated that the deceased played a critical role in shaping narratives that protected children in our country. “She was the first applicant to be considered for fostering children at the age of 70. The deceased facilitated meetings with other foster parents and mentored them. The first child placed in her care was a 14-year-old boy with social problems and in no time, the child was transformed. She did not only change a child; she changed a family and built a community”, Magina told mourners.
A family representative from Goeieman indicated that she was the longest surviving member of the family and a counselor to many. Her teachings will remain with them.
Her grandson learned from her that if life is difficult, however, it is only a chapter in a greater story. “She instilled in us, and the fostered children, that going to church was not an option but a must,” he said.
Her only surviving son, Tebogo Xulu, with his rich broadcaster’s voice, dedicated a song to his mother. “I usually Direct Programs or speak at funerals and weddings, but never did I imagine that one day I would be standing in front of my mother like this,” he uttered the chilling words.
Tebogo stated that he inherited strength, compassion and leadership qualities from his mother. He spoke of forgiveness and reminded people to live life in the present, not in reverse and to count their blessings constantly. He warned people against selfishness. “Although when I was younger, I was angry at my mom for taking in strange children. I was expected to share all that I had with them. I learned that even fostered or adopted children are children of love,” sharing his wisdom.
Tributes were delivered by Church representatives from organisations within the church, including the Youth President, Adventist Women’s Ministries. All speaking in one voice that she was a woman of prayer and of the Word of God. Who lived and walked by faith.
She was respectful, firm, reprimanded with love and did not allow people to laugh or eat during services.
MaModise continued teaching baptism classes until her old age. Her mind remained sharp and could read and see without glasses. She remained committed to God’s work until at the end of her life.
Her legacy will live on in her children, grandchildren, foster children, friends, church and community.
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