Stellenbosch Hospice remembers those brave loved ones at remembrance service

As a fierce storm swept through Stellenbosch on Sunday 19 April, flooding roads and keeping most residents indoors, a group of families stepped out into the rain, making their way through waterlogged streets to attend the annual remembrance service of Stellenbosch Hospice at Stellenbosch
 United church.

The service, led by Stellenbosch Hospice general manager Jennilee Geduld, honoured patients who died in 2025.

Pastor Dr Sheridon Adonis, a Stellenbosch native who also walked the path of loss, spoke of his own experience of witnessing a loved one being cared for by the local hospice, and especially the comfort to be drawn from having shared a love-filled life with someone, albeit on borrowed time, creating memories that will live on.

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Hospice’s role

An emotionally-charged song by Jesmone Damonse drew tears from many in the room, a moment of empathy among those present, side by side united in their grief, some clasping photographs. A few sat in silence, eyes fixed ahead.

Then there was that simple, central, symbolic act, the lighting of candles, one by one, each lit by a hospice staff member in memory of each patient who died. Each flame signified they lived on in in the hearts of those who loved and cared for them.

Each in his or her final chapter had been touched by the care of a team that works largely out of public view.

It is ceremonies such as these that offer a glimpse into the role the hospice movement plays in society. It is not only about the end of life; it is about dignity, comfort and presence when it matters most, ensuring no-one faces their final days alone or in pain, and families are supported long after the loss.

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Community support

As the service drew to a close Geduld expressed gratitude to key donors – Die Het Jan Marais Nationale Fonds, Remgro, the Jannie Mouton Foundation, the provincial Department of Health and Wellness, Stellenbosch Municipality, local businesses, volunteers and private donors, who contribute quietly and behind the scenes.

Geduld paid tribute to the nurses, caregivers, social workers and staff, whom she described as “walking angels”, a reflection on how they show up each day to perform their special role.

She also honoured Sister Yvonne Joubert, who served Stellenbosch Hospice from 1991 until her retirement in March this year.

For decades she visited patients at their homes, in town and on surrounding farms, bringing palliative care to those who could not reach it themselves. 

Stellenbosch Hospice depends on community support to keep its services running. Without it the reach of hospice care shrinks even if the need never does.

Geduld got all present to close the service with the words: “We will remember them… We will remember them”.