A Premonition of Death
Lindo Mazibuko was one of 13 passengers who tragically lost their lives in a horrific bus accident on the R21 Northbound near the R24 split, close to OR Tambo International Airport, on Tuesday, March 11.
His close friend and colleague, Sibusiso Mbele, shared an eerie revelation at Lindo’s memorial service, held on Saturday, March 15, at Tshongweni in Katlehong, Ekurhuleni. Sibusiso believed that Lindo had sensed his impending death.
A Farewell Message
On the morning of the accident, Lindo posted a touching message on his WhatsApp status:
“When you experience loss, people say you’ll go through the five stages of grief… Denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. What they don’t tell you is that you’ll cycle through them all every day.”
For Sibusiso, this message felt like a farewell, a preparation for those who knew and loved Lindo.
“He knew we would all have questions about his sudden and unbelievable passing. Today, we are struggling to accept his absence, but his message gives us strength,” Sibusiso said.
A Brotherly Bond
Sibusiso and Lindo met in 2022 while working in transportation. Their friendship grew beyond colleagues, with Lindo always looking out for him.
“When Lindo left his previous job, he promised he would take me along to his new company. He kept his word. Now, his passing has left a void in my life. Every time I see the truck he used to drive, I feel like I’ll see him again. May his soul rest in peace,” Sibusiso added.
Mourning a Generous Soul
Mbekezeli Zondi, another close friend, expressed his heartbreak over Lindo’s passing.
“Lindo was a kind and generous man. On Sunday, March 9, we spent the whole day together. He was happy, full of life, and had just bought a Corsa. We celebrated with him, not knowing it would be the last time,” Zondi said.
He recalled Lindo’s love for fast cars and how he often joked, saying, “One day, these cars might be the end of me.” Tragically, he lost his life in a bus accident instead.
A Family’s Pain
Lindo’s cousin, Ayanda Dubazane, described him as a devoted family man who cared deeply for his loved ones.
“We have lost someone irreplaceable. He was always there for us, always ready to help. It’s hard to accept he is gone, but we place our trust in God,” Ayanda said.
His wife, Nomndeni Mkhize, was too overcome with grief to speak. Her heartfelt message was read aloud by her relative, Thandeka Nxele.
“My love, you were the best person I ever met. You respected everyone, young and old. My heart is shattered.”
A Life Cut Short, But Never Forgotten
As mourners gathered to pay their respects, the pain of losing Lindo was evident. His tragic passing has left a deep void in the lives of his family, friends, and colleagues. Though his life was cut short, his memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.