Supplementary Article
Saturday, July 9, 1988 | Temba Independence Stadium, Hammanskraal
The mass funeral service for the late John Noko Mamarege, Ferrington Oupa Motaung, and Godfrey Mpolayeng Modise took place on Saturday, July 9, 1988, at Temba Independence Stadium in Hammanskraal, north of Pretoria. This deeply moving and solemn event was attended by over 5,000 mourners, including family members, friends, and community members, who gathered in grief and solidarity.
The legal and educational professions were well represented, along with students and staff from the University of the North, where all three men had studied before their untimely deaths. The event garnered coverage from both local and national media.
The families appointed Mr. STT Mogotsi and the late Mr. ET Tsiane as program directors for the day. Both were respected community figures known for their dignity and service. Heartfelt formal obituaries were presented in the following order:
- Obituary of Noko Mamarege by LT Moeng
- Obituary of Oupa Motaung by AR Sentle
- Obituary of Mpolayeng Modise by PR Ramasia
Clergy from various faiths led prayers and reflections, honoring the departed with scriptural readings, blessings, and words of comfort. The Temba Adult Choir and Moretele Sings Choir provided inspiring hymns and musical tributes, creating a reverent atmosphere that enveloped the stadium.
Several speakers paid tribute to the personal and professional lives of these young men:
- Advocates C. Makhafola, S. Phiri, and S. Maboa reflected on the contributions of Mamarege and Motaung to the legal field.
- Mr. Solly Malebye, a close friend of Mpolayeng Modise, shared personal memories of their enduring friendship and shared aspirations.
- Dr. J.A.P. Mphafudi and Mr. J. Molwantwa delivered tributes on behalf of the People’s Social Club and Black Like Me, emphasizing the broader community’s sense of loss.
- The Dean of Students and a representative from the Student Representative Council of the University of the North spoke on behalf of the students and academic community, reflecting on the impact and promise of these young men.
The official eulogy was delivered by the late Honourable Mr. T.M. Tlhabane, then-Minister of Water Affairs in the Bophuthatswana government and a respected Temba resident. In a deeply emotional closing, he stated:
“Noko, Oupa, and Mpolayeng were three young men with bright futures ahead of them, united not just in death, but in purpose. They dreamed not only for themselves but for their families, communities, and a better South Africa. They were sons, brothers, friends, students, and emerging leaders. Their lives were marked by purpose, driven by service, and filled with promise.
Though the pain of their loss weighs heavily on us, we are inspired by their examples. Their dedication to education, justice, and community upliftment encourages us to live purposefully and carry their dreams forward. May we honor them not only in memory but through action—by pursuing justice, educating children, and uplifting lives.”
Biographical Summaries
John Madingoane Noko Mamarege (1958–1988)
Born on June 21, 1958, in Lady Selbourne, Pretoria, Noko Mamarege began his early schooling at Eastwood Lower Primary School and completed Standard 6 in 1972 at Legoso Higher Primary School in Temba, Hammanskraal. He finished high school in 1977 at Kgatlatlou High School in Sekhukhune with a university exemption. In 1978, he enrolled at the University of the North for a B.Juris degree. After graduating, he joined the Department of Justice in Bophuthatswana, serving as a Public Prosecutor and later as a Magistrate until 1985. At the time of his death on July 2, 1988, he was pursuing his LLB degree.
Ferrington Oupa Motaung (1963–1988)
Born on February 17, 1963, in Alexandra, Johannesburg, Oupa Motaung completed his primary education at Refitlhile Higher Primary School in Temba. He graduated in 1980 from Matlaisane High School with university exemption. In 1981, he registered for a B. Juris degree at the University of the North, graduating in 1984. He worked at the Makhafola law firm as an article clerk until 1987. At the time of his passing, he was completing his LLB degree.
Godfrey Mpolayeng Modise (1963–1988)
Born on June 16, 1963, in Walmansthal, Pretoria, Mpolayeng Modise started his education at Refitlhile Higher Primary School. He attended Hans Kekana High School and graduated from Lolwane High School in 1984. In 1986, he enrolled in a B. Paed program at the University of the North, completing his studies in 1987. At the time of his passing, he was pursuing postgraduate studies for a B. Paed Honours degree.