SPECIAL Springbok troop founder passes away.
Lucy "Rakgadi" Mputla (69) of Makapanstad, North West, collapsed and was declared deceased at a local clinic on Friday, 1 May.
Her family said Lucy was in high spirits before her sudden passing, even preparing a meal for the Special Springbok troop members.
Her sister, Sabbath Modiba (71), said Lucy's unexpected death has left a deep wound.
"My sister was happy. I was with her on Friday, 1 May 2026, and even when she died. She collapsed and died at the gate of another troop member, not a member of the Special Springbok troop, when they were welcoming the body on Friday, before the burial on Saturday, 2 May. My sister loved troopers and died doing what she loved most," she said.
Sabbath added that they held a guard of honour for the late troop member and welcomed his body home.
Lucy had been looking forward to the funeral and showed no signs of illness.
"She was singing troop songs. She collapsed after 6pm outside the yard of the other deceased trooper," said Sabbath.
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Troopers rushed her to the clinic, where she was declared dead.
"We're hurt. We cried. We don't know the cause of her death. It's a great loss. She built us this house," said Sabbath, adding that Lucy was a retired teacher.
Lucy's daughter, Jane Mputla (51), described her mum as the family's pillar.
"She was the guide and guardian of everyone. She was a leader and a unifier. She was a God-sent. It's a big loss. We never thought she'd go, especially like this.
"Her grandchildren and troop members are heartbroken. They're asking themselves what will happen in December. Who will sit with them and cook for them?" said Jane.
She added that the loss is hard for everyone.
"She was a God-fearing woman. We communicated with her every day."
Two memorial services will be held on Wednesday, 6 May 2026, and Thursday, 7 May 2026.
Lucy will be laid to rest on Saturday, 9 May 2026, at Makapanstad Cemetery.
