School is struck by tragedy after beloved teacher dies
A beloved special development teacher has died suddenly, leaving a Victorian school community reeling and her heartbroken children scrambling to bring her remains home.
Mercy Linda Kaphametengo Makuwira passed away suddenly on Tuesday after years of service at the Dandenong Valley Special Development School.
Her daughters Gladys, 28, and Patience, 30, said the five surviving children were ‘heartbroken’.
“My mother was a remarkable woman who faced life’s challenges with resilience, grace and boundless love,” they said.
‘Even though Mom has had a difficult time in recent years after an accident at work, she remained the smart, funny and caring mother who raised us.
“She loved to dance to music while cleaning on Sunday mornings, and she loved to bring home random plants, stoves, and pillows.
“She was a great cook and always enjoyed cooking and feeding others.
“Her care for others extended beyond our family. She was passionate about her work as a special development teacher because she positively impacted the lives of children and families with disabilities.”
Beloved special development teacher Mercy Linda Kaphametengo Makuwira passed away suddenly on Tuesday
Gladys and Patience said their mother taught them to be kind.
“She was the strongest person we ever knew, and through her we learned the true meaning of unconditional love and standing up for others,” they said.
The children are now trying to send Ms Makuwira’s remains to her siblings in her hometown of Chimbiya, Malawi.
“(It) reflects her deep connection to her roots and her enduring love for family. At the same time, she built a beautiful life in Melbourne, surrounded by friends who became like family.
“We want to create a space here in Australia for her community to also honor her memory.”
The family reportedly left the south-east African country in 1999 to live in Armidale, NSW.
They later settled in Melbourne’s south-east before Ms Makuwira’s husband returned to Malawi.
The oldest have opened one fundraising to help their mother return home.
“We humbly ask for your support to help us fulfill her wishes. Your contributions will help cover the costs of her repatriation back to Malawi, funeral expenses and memorial services,” they wrote.
“Thank you for your generosity, kindness and prayers during this difficult time.”