The Portuguese community of Welkom, and the greater Matjhabeng community, is mourning the tragic loss of life of a beautiful and vibrant young girl who died as a result of severe burns she sustained during a horrific fire incident at her home.
Serena de Sousa (17) died on Friday, 4 July, in the Welkom Medi-Clinic after she was admitted to ICU with severe burn wounds on Wednesday, 18 June.
In a profoundly sad message from the Young Adult Portuguese Society (Yaps), they extended their deepest condolences to her father Alberto de Sousa and her sister Kyara de Sousa.
“Serena’s light touched the lives of many, and her memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. She was a cherished individual whose warmth, kindness, and spirit left an indelible mark on her family, friends, and community. Her loss is deeply felt, and we join together in mourning her departure while celebrating the beautiful legacy she leaves behind,” read the statement.
“We are heartbroken by Serena’s passing,” said Dinarte Menezes, media department of Yaps.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with Alberto, Kyara, and their loved ones during this difficult time. We honor Serena’s memory and offer our unwavering support to her family as they navigate this profound loss.”
“We have no doubt that Serena’s absence will be deeply felt by everyone, from her family and friends to her schoolmates and the wider community” said Micaela de Gouveia, Yaps Chairperson.
A mere three months ago, in April, Serena celebrated one of the highlights of her matric year when she attended the St Dominic’s College matric dance in a stunning red creation.
In a message of Facebook, her school wrote that is with profound sadness that they must share the heartbreaking news of the passing of one of their dear pupils.
“Serena was a cherished part of our school family — a gentle soul with a bright spirit who brought warmth, kindness, and light to those around her. Her presence touched the hearts of her classmates, teachers, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. We mourn her loss deeply and extend our heartfelt condolences to Serena’s family and her peers. No words can truly ease the pain of losing someone so young and so loved,” says the statement.
Serena’s tragic loss of life follows a horrific fire when her mother Theresa Martins (53) doused herself and her teenage daughter with petrol and then set them both alight. The mother died in the flames.
- The celebration of the life of Serena de Sousa will take place on Sunday 13 July at 14:00 at the St Dominic’s Catholic Church in Welkom. To honour who Serena was please wear light colours to the funeral. If possible, something purple.
