"Fought the Good Fight": Hoedspruit Christian School Mourns Learner After Brave Battle with Illness
- Hoedspruit Christian School shared a heartfelt farewell to learner Troy Matthysen on 27 October on Facebook
- Troy faced a long illness and was remembered for his strength, perseverance and quiet faith throughout his journey
- The school community extended its deepest condolences to the Matthysen family as they grieve his loss
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A Limpopo school community is in mourning after one of its learners passed away following a prolonged battle with illness. Hoedspruit Christian School shared the news of Troy Matthysen's passing on 27 October, describing him as a young man who faced his final days with remarkable courage and an unwavering faith in Christ.

Source: Facebook
The school posted a heartfelt tribute on Facebook, honouring Troy's memory with warmth and deep sadness. In the message, the school described how Troy had carried himself throughout his battle with an invasive brain tumour, with strength, perseverance and a quiet belief that moved those who knew him.
Those at Hoedspruit Christian School said Troy's spirit left a lasting impression on everyone around him. The tribute noted that he faced his circumstances without losing his faith, and that this was something his school family would always carry with them. The school chose a scripture from 2 Timothy 4:7 to close the memorial card: "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." The verse, which speaks of a life lived with purpose and conviction, felt fitting for the young man they were saying goodbye to.
Alongside the tribute to Troy, the school extended its condolences to the Matthysen family, acknowledging the love and dedication they showed throughout his journey. The message made clear that his absence would be deeply felt. Read the school's full tribute to Troy Matthysen:
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Mzansi mourns Hoedspruit Christian School learner
Many people across South Africa offered their condolences in the comments section of Hoedspruit Christian School's post:
Bridgette Mmatshepo Mashile wrote:
"Rest in peace, young man 🙌"
Wanda Coetzer said:
"Heartfelt condolences"
Elarda Venter shared [in Afrikaans]:
"I can only say: I hold everyone who knew him, loved him and supported him so faithfully, sooo tightly in my heart. All the words in all the languages spoken on this entire earth are truly totally inadequate to bring any comfort to his loved ones..."
Virginia Tsaks wrote:
"Rest in peace"
Phumzile Pinky said:
"RIP Troy till we meet again."
Hlulani Amogelang Khoza added:
"Rest well Troy 🕊🕊💔💔"
Nomathemba Reneilwe Xulu shared:
"Rest well Troy."
Other Briefly News stories about tragic learner deaths
- Curro Salt Rock in KwaZulu-Natal announced the tragic passing of Grade 10 pupil Katleho Ngecoboye' Nkosi Tsotetsi on 27 October 2026, describing him as a natural leader and a beautiful soul gone far too soon.
- St. Ida's Primary School in Stellenbosch, Western Cape, was plunged into mourning following the sudden passing of Grade R learner Berto Lee Adams after a road crash on the morning of 23 October 2026.
- Laerskool Totius in Boston, Bellville (Western Cape), shared the devastating news of the passing of eight-year-old Grade 2 learner Nero van Niekerk following an accident on 16 October 2026.
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Source: Briefly News

