Heaven needed you more …

Two beautiful people passed away this past week.

One of them we at the News knew very well and the other person was quite well-known in the community.

One lost her battle against a terrible disease while the other succumb to various ailments.

Fifteen-year-old Ruby Ballack and 33-year-old Riaan Smit have entered eternity and we, together with the community, mourn their deaths.

We have been following Ruby’s story for the past two years. She suffered from restrictive cardiomyopathy and pulmonary hypertension, and desperately needed a heart transplant. On the day of her death, a fundraiser was being held for her. Although Ruby is no longer with us, her death was not in vain. A lot of awareness about organ donation has been created and if that was the purpose of Ruby’s life, then I for one believe she served it well.

We at the News did not know Riaan well, but after speaking to the congregation he served, we will not have enough paper to print his incredible story.

His untimely death has been described as a major loss for the community. Words like angel, remarkable, loving, caring, devoted, legend and beloved were used in the messages posted on his Facebook wall.

Sometimes one realises the true value and impact people had on others only after they have passed on.

We here at the News extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of both Ruby and Riaan.

May you find peace and comfort in our Lord.

Rest in peace, Ruby and Riaan.