A deeply emotional scene unfolded at the Gletwin family home in Harare as the bodies of businessman Wicknell Chivayo and his wife, Lucy “Lulu” Muteke, were brought home ahead of their burial scheduled for Thursday.
The arrival of the hearses triggered an outpouring of grief among relatives, friends and mourners who had gathered to pay their final respects. Some relatives embraced one another while others struggled to contain their tears. As the caskets were carried into the family compound, the atmosphere became increasingly emotional, with many mourners standing quietly with bowed heads.
Members of the Johane Masowe yeChishanu church, the religious community to which the couple belonged, also gathered at the residence. Dressed in white robes, church members led prayers and hymns as the mourners observed the solemn occasion. Their prayers and singing continued as family members and friends gathered around the home.
The Gletwin mansion has remained a focal point for those mourning the couple since their deaths in a helicopter crash at Kudenga Farm near Marondera on September 30. Five people who were aboard the aircraft reportedly died in the incident.
According to family members, the residence has remained open to people who have wanted to visit and offer their condolences. By evening, the compound had attracted relatives, friends, church officials and other well-wishers who came to stand with the bereaved family.
Church leaders had previously agreed to permit the use of caskets because of the condition of the remains. This represented a departure from the church’s customary burial practices. There has also been no public viewing of the bodies.
The deaths have left many mourners grieving what they described as a devastating double loss. Chivayo was widely recognised for his prominent public profile, wealth and acts of generosity, while Lucy was remembered fondly by those who knew her and her husband.
Family members expect thousands of people to attend the couple’s final farewell, with several prominent guests also anticipated.
Wicknell Chivayo and Lucy “Lulu” Muteke are scheduled to be buried side by side at Glen Forest Cemetery in Harare on Thursday, October 8, at 2pm.
As the family prepares for the final ceremony, prayers and hymns are expected to continue throughout the night as loved ones keep vigil and bid farewell to the couple.