KGOSI Maloka's family struggled to hold back their tears during his funeral service in Ga-Rankuwa, Tshwane, on Saturday, 10 February.
Despite the sadness that filled the room, they laid their loved one to rest in a dignified manner.
Many children and parents bid farewell to the 12-year-old boy, whom they said was their best friend and child, respectively.
Kgosi died on Thursday, 1 February, after he fell from a scholar bus, and the rear wheels went over him.
Mourners described Kgosi, who was a grade 6 pupil at Modiselle Primary School in Ga-Rankuwa, Tshwane, as a loving child.
He was laid to rest on Saturday, 10 February, at the Kgabalatsane graveyard.
His uncle, Tshepo Maloka, said Kgosi died a painful death as he narrated the incident to mourners.
"Just imagine a bus with two wheels rolling over his head. We know God is there. I'll never forget how he died," he said.
His other uncle, Thabelo Matshinga, said his nephew died young and left them heartbroken.
"May the family have peace and be comforted. What can separate us from God?" he said.
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Oratilwe Shaku (21), a neighbour said: "Kgosi, you left us heartbroken. Kgosi, my boy, rest in peace. We still love you and will always remember you."
A family friend, Lydia Makhathini, said they would remember Kgosi for all his good and bad traits.
"I want to thank everyone, especially from Zone 14 in Ga-Rankuwa. I've never seen such love. The parents of Zone 14 know that a child is a gift and a child belongs to everyone."
Kgosi's friend Koketso Sibanyoni (13) said: "I'll always remember him as my friend. May his soul rest in peace."
His school principal, Itumeleng Matlhoko said: "We were looking forward to teach him to become a better person in the community. Our role, as the school, is to build these children and help them grow having education to be able to stand on their own."
He said Kgosi's death was a loss to the school and to the education department.
Evangelical Christian Restoration Church representative, Thoko Mangwane, said Kgosi was lovable.
"Kgosi, we love you. We'll always remember you. You'll be in our hearts. You had a beautiful soul. We say rest well."
