A void that can never be filled

FROM Friday night family prayer meetings on Zoom, to hour-long conversations between siblings, in a short space of six weeks our family has been dealt a double blow – the untimely demise of two loved ones – Sunil and Babita Deokaran.

They were born 5th and 6th of eight children to parents Mothilall and Sisilee Deokaran of Phoenix.

Their childhood, although humble, was replete with loving and happy memories of a close-knit family.

Growing up in a household with many children, there was never a dull moment.

Sunil and Babita were ambitious and career-driven individuals who relocated to Joburg where they built their families and excelled in their professions.

Sunil was known for his caring, loving and giving nature and was often referred to as the disciplinarian of the family – as he was a no-nonsense guy.

He was someone we could always count on.

His love for children made him popular and well liked amongst young and old.

Babita’s brilliant mind, quick-witted humour and self-motivation made her soar to great heights in her career.

Her generosity and selflessness made her one of the most dependable people in our family and her kind-hearted disposition extended to those beyond our inner circle.

In early July, when Sunil fell ill with Covid-19, Babita welcomed him into her home with open arms. She was his caregiver up until he succumbed to the virus.

Little did we know that a mere six weeks later, she would be brutally gunned down right outside her home.

This is how she was rewarded for her dedication, honesty, and service to her country.

We have lost invaluable and irreplaceable members of our family.

The void we feel will never be filled. Our hearts are completely broken. Gone but never forgotten.