A much-loved special development teacher has died suddenly, leaving a Victorian school community reeling and her heartbroken children struggling to bring her remains home.
Mercy Linda Kaphamentengo Makuwira passed away suddenly on Tuesday after years of service at Dandenong Valley Special Development School.
His daughters Gladys, 28, and Patience, 30, said his five surviving children were “heartbroken.”
“Mom was an extraordinary woman who faced life’s challenges with resilience, grace and boundless love,” they said.
‘Although Mum faced a difficult few years after an injury at work, she remained the bright, fun and caring mother who raised us.
‘She loved dancing to music on Sunday mornings while cleaning, she loved bringing home plants, kitchen appliances and random cushions.
‘She was an incredible cook and always enjoyed cooking and feeding others.
‘His concern for others extended beyond our family. She was passionate about her work as a special development teacher as it positively impacted the lives of children and families living with disabilities.’
Beloved special development teacher Mercy Linda Kaphamentengo Makuwira died suddenly on Tuesday
Gladys and Patience said their mother taught them to be kind.
“She was the strongest person we have ever known, and through her, we have learned the true meaning of unconditional love and showing up for others,” they said.
The children are now trying to send Mrs Makuwira’s remains to be laid to rest alongside her siblings in her hometown of Chimbiya, Malawi.
‘(It reflects) his deep connection to his roots and his enduring love for family. At the same time, she built a beautiful life in Melbourne surrounded by friends who became her family.
“We would like to create a space here in Australia for his community to also honor his memory.”
The family reportedly left the southeast African country in 1999 to live in Armidale, New South Wales.
They later settled in southeast Melbourne, before Makuwira’s husband returned to Malawi.
The elders have opened a fundraising to help his mother return home.
‘We humbly ask for your support to help us fulfill your wishes. “Your contributions will help cover the costs of his repatriation to Malawi, funeral costs and memorial services,” they wrote.
“Thank you for your generosity, kindness and prayers during this difficult time.”