It has been a harrowing 48 hours and Jayde’s short life and the manner of her death has touched so many, not only in South Africa, but all over the world, that I feel totally inadequate to do justice to the overwhelming response we have had during this sad time. In my years as a teacher at Riebeek College I cannot recall such a momentous reaction to a loss such as this.
My sincere thanks to everyone, who has offered their condolences, their services and their love. During all this sadness for Jayde’s families and her Riebeek family, love has permeated throughout the school and the Uitenhage community. I believe that it is this love that has sustained us and helped us to cope in the best manner possible.
I’m a proud principal as the manner in which the staff and girls have dealt with this traumatic loss has been a shining example of courage, respect and register. There has been an atmosphere of calm and serene sadness in the school during which we have continued to function to the best of our ability out of respect to Mrs Panayiotou’s special memory. I believe that Mrs Panayiotou is proud of all of you young ladies as she watches over us this morning. We are going to celebrate her life and thank God for the privilege of having had her as a much loved, exemplary teacher at our school.
The days, weeks, months and years ahead of us, are going to help us work through our personal grief, pain and anger. It will happen to each one of us at different stages, but I believe in the end we shall all receive hope and peace. I once read that the love we give and receive is all that matters and all that is remembered. Suffering disappears; love remains.
I have very vivid memories of Jayde as a student at Riebeek from Grade 4 to 12. She was such a cute, neat, petite little girl, who always had the most gorgeous and generous smile. This never changed. As a highly respected, capable, compassionate young teacher, much loved by staff and girls alike, Mrs Panayiotou was a valued member of the Riebeek staff and the Riebeek community.
The response and support on social media from all over the world, has been absolutely overwhelming and tells the story of a life well lived. People have felt the loss of a beautiful, special teacher, person and friend. I think that this untimely, tragic loss of such a young teacher whose life held so much promise, resonated with everyone’s emotions, knowing that a class full of young, vulnerable children, has been robbed of someone they loved and respected dearly.
I often passed Jayde in the passages and I would smile at her and jokingly say with great fondness, “Jaydee!” Without fail, her face always lit up with her unique smile that seemed to radiate warmth. I clearly remember that that was the last thing I actually said to her on Monday, when passing her on my way back to the office.
Maya Angelou once said, “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel,” and I believe these words testify to the way Jayde lived her life. She had the capacity to make everyone with whom she came in contact, feel good about themselves. This is a rare gift. I don’t think that she ever realized this special gift that she so willingly, abundantly and quite unobtrusively lavished on those around her.
As a Riebeek staff member, Jayde was so professional, with a work ethic that was unsurpassed. She never moaned about having to do extra work, she was the first to offer to help anyone. She did not suffer lazy people readily. She didn’t know how to be lazy. Her work was meticulous, well planned and executed, innovative and exciting. More impressive than all these wonderful skills and talents that came so naturally to Jayde, was her positive and encouraging attitude. Jayde understood the concept of never giving up and I am sure she would have approved of the way you all kept the faith over these past days. We had faith right up until we knew that all was lost. We never gave up on you Jayde. When the news finally came, only then did we allow ourselves to grieve and mourn for our loss and for the unimaginable suffering of her beloved family.
I have over the past few days received and read an immeasurable number of tributes, condolences and poignant messages. However, I have been humbled by the realization that it would be an impossible task to convey to you in one speech, the sheer enormity of the love that has come our way. Jaydee, I have honestly felt your gentle presence while reading the outpouring of sincere emotions in all the words of so many children, adults both friend and stranger: while listening to the endless heartfelt messages, while watching the messaged balloons rise up to you
while feeling the emptiness of your chair in the staffroom while observing the immense effect your death has had on thousands and thousands of people worldwide. I have felt your gentle precence...while just loving and missing you.
The words from the song, “See you again” goes as follows: “It’s been a long day without you, my friend. And I’ll tell you all about it when I see you again. We’ve come a long way from where we began. Oh, I’ll tell you all about it when I see you again. When I see you again.”
Jayde, once a Riebeek angel…always a Riebeek angel.
TRIBUTES
we might not be able to see you but I bet you can see us. I hope you like the balloons we sent you they say they are your favourite colours. did you get the letters we stapled to them? every now and then I light your candle and watch it burn I put my hand over it and feel the warmth it reminds how you always used to say your prefab was a tanning bed that's how hot it was.
I miss your smile, laugh and sweet, selfless personality.
RIP Mrs Panayiotou
I never knew Jayde, but every single post I have read about her tells a story of a beautiful, happy, feisty, compasionate, loving, caring, strong lady. That is exactly what is portrayed in all the photo's of her. She was always smiling.
My heart goes out to everyone that knew her.
Our Heavenly Father has his own agenda with our lives and though we are left with all the questions, He always knows best.
Stars are openings in Heaven
Where the Love of our Lost Ones
Shines down upon us
To let us know they're happy.
May you find peace and solace in time to come.
Jayde, if you're looking down on this earth, please ask God to keep his hand over everyone left behind.
In your short lifetime you touched many people.
God bless you
R.I.P. Jayde (Smiling Angel)
Dearest Jayde, our friend, our sister,
Last night for the first time since this nightmare started we laughed and smiled, as we all sat sharing memories of you from our 23 years of friendship.
From the very first day of school in Grade 1, all the way up until Matric and many years after, we were together, and boy did we have some amazing times together. You were so loved Jayde, by absolutely everyone who knew you.
A few of us wrote personal messages to you, which I have shared:
A message from Cheyyann Barton, nee Richter:
Jayde,
As we say our final “see you laters” I am comforted by the fact that you are seated by our fathers feet, overwhelmed by his absolute glory! For us you have left too soon to meet your maker, for him he is gaining his child in paradise! The ultimate reward in life is yours, as hard as it is for us left here. As you look down I pray that you will see what has come from this, the legend you are leaving behind! You have marked the turn around in society and united many! You will always make a difference! 22 years of friendship leaves me with beautiful memories that I will cherish forever! As the scooter gang we rocked Uitenhage! As our hearts are sore, may you find your rest easy in the love of our father. You will always be loved Jayde! Rest in peace my beautiful friend. You are leaving behind a legacy!
Kerry Lawson, nee Meiting:
Jayde, you could always light up a room with your beautiful smile. Now, as you rest in peace, your smile will continue to light up so many hearts! Gone far too soon, but never forgotten! The world now knows what we have for years, there is no one else as kind, caring, compassionate or as special and precious as you are. God picks the prettiest flowers first. Till we see you again precious Jayde.
Many Jubber, nee Botha:
Jayde, hope heaven is as beautiful as I have always imagined. God surely gained a beautiful soul. We miss you. Sooo many people miss you. We are thinking about you all the time. I know you are looking down on us and thinking the same. Man, I am writing this with tears running down my face! Yes, we might not have stayed in contact after school, but please know this, you will always be my friend. Since the day I met you when we were 5 years old. Shine bright.
Melissa Viljoen, nee Armstrong:
Jayde, today we have lost a beautiful soul and a truly amazing friend. We love you so much and miss you and we will always keep you alive in our memories and thoughts. Today we are smiling as we remember what an amazing friend you are. Your smile could lighten up anybody’s day! You have touched millions and God has picked his best flower to join him in heaven. He has the most prized possession with him today as Jayde you are an angel! I will miss you my dear friend.
Nicole Dickinson, nee Rothman:
Jayde, no words can describe just how amazing you were! Words like strong, beautiful, compassionate, caring, loving and feisty come to mind. We are so much richer for having had you as our friend for these past 23 years, and will always treasure every single memory we have of you! I think we can all agree that you had a profound impact on each and every one of our lives, and I promise that no one will ever forget just how special you were! I know you hated saying goodbye, so I will rather say “see you later.” Sleep sweet my darling friend, and soar high with the angels in heaven.
Jayde, we will never ever forget you. We will remember you always, and carry your love with us wherever we go.
To the pupils of Riebeek College, the staff, her friends and family, we share in your pain and grief. We are thinking of each and every one of you, praying for comfort during this indescribably painful time.
Melissa shared a short poem with us, which are just the perfect words at this time:
An Eternal Memory
Until we meet again:
Those special memories of you
Will always bring a smile
If only I could have you back
For just a little while
Then we could sit and talk again
Just like we used to do
You always meant so very much
And always will do too
The fact that you’re no longer here
Will always cause me pain
But you’ve forever in my heart
Until we meet again
May your amazing soul rest in peace our friend, our sister.
We love you
With much love from
Kerry Lawson, Nicole Dickinson, Melissa Viljoen, Kerry-Leigh Connachan, Mariette Claasen, Jennifer Cuyler Cohen, Kelly Swift, Candra Neilson, Mandy Jubber, Candra Nielson, Tara Griffiths
Class of 2003
Do not stand at my grave and weep
I am not there. I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow.
I am the diamond glints on snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain.
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the morning's hush
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry;
I am not there. I did not die
“I think Jayde was a kindred spirit to many people”¦To me, she was the person who kept on reminding me of all the good in the world. Her dedication to causes and people were humbling and so sincere. Memories with Jayde that light up my face is when we shared our child-like moments. Sharing happy dances, jumping on the jumping castle together and tobogganing at full speed. She is not just a person to call 'friend', she shared herself with others and made you feel cared for. I will celebrate you my friend.” Mrs Stroebel remembers pizza and coke deliveries on Friday last lesson (delivered at the back gate to make sure they did “not get into trouble”. Mrs Viljoen loved Jayde’s laugh, how cheered up the staff all the time and Jayde pinching her nose to contain her laughter. Mrs T. Woods remembers her sitting in the staffroom putting her sunglasses on upside down and tying her hair up in a high pony and swinging her head around and around like a helicopter. Mrs Panayiotou taught her how to drive the older school bus and they rode around the block practicing gearing down and parking. Mrs Gunter pictures sitting in her chair in the staff room, saying pow pow pow and kicking her legs. She would bounce on her chair doing this whenever she got excited. Other staff members spoke of Jayde’s personality: feisty, enthusiastic, respectful, dependable, loyal, filled with integrity, strong, courageous, modest, highly capable but unassuming, lovely laughter, her #goodvibes, how if she did something then it would be done precisely, neatly and thoroughly, how she was not a moaner but a do-er. She has a lovely laugh. She had a fantastic manner with children - empathetic but firm and she instinctively knew when to be which of the two. She cared about people, principles and animals. She never shied away from hard work. She was the best kind of teacher because she is a role model. And, most of all, she is very much loved because she touched lives. Mrs T. Woods sums it up: “We, the staff, are all feeling devastated by the loss of Jayde. It was senseless. She was a gem of a friend. Someone always willing to go the extra mile for the people she loved. I think that heaven couldn't wait to see her.”
ï„Ž
your pretty face
nor your pretty clothes
and the money you had.
they will remember
the melody in your laugh
and the way you loved
and the beauty of your heart
and the bravery of your spirit
and the kindness of your soul.
they won't remember what
you looked like
they won't remember what
you had.
they will remember you
and the words you told them
and the life you spoke to them
and the water you used
to bring to life the dead garden
in their souls
and they will remember the
sunshine in your smile
and the stars that
hid in your eyes.
RIP beautiful Jayde. Gone but never will you be forgotten
Matric class of 2003
My sincere condolences go to the family, friends, staff and learners of Riebeek College. I pray to God that he may give you the strength to endure the difficult time which lays ahead of you. May loving memories of "Jayde" and the love of family surround you and give you strength, peace and comfort today and always.
RIP Jayde.
God Bless.
Heike Hellmann - Class of 1988
"Once a Riebeek Girl, ..... always a Riebeek Girl!"
Your amazing smile will always be remembered and I'll forever remember you hockey advice. Thank you for playing a role in my life. Heaven really couldn't wait for you to be home.
Roshni Johnson - class of 2010
God Bless
Leandre Pietersen (nee Vermaak)
Matric Class of 2002
It is with great sadness and tears streaming down my face that I am writing this.
Just want to express my deepest condolences to the principal, teachers and learners of Riebeek College on the passing of our dearest teacher Jayde Panayiotou.
For every life has a purpose to fill, a purpose which us humans can seldom infer. But she was a gift from heaven, whose purpose was to make this world understand what love, friendship, goodness, and humbleness was all about. Goodness belongs to heaven, and I know she is watching us from there, bestowing her beautiful smile upon us. May her soul rest in peace. Life would never be the same without her presence and I know her absence will be greatly felt by her family, friends and the whole Riebeek College, including us as parents. Her infectious laughter and cheerful nature has always brought joy to everyone's lives and she had such a great impact on the lives of our girls.
We will continue to honour her memory and have you in all our prayers. You are not alone. We are with you and so is God.
The Bible conveys a message that death is not the end of life; it is only the body that perishes, the spirit can never die ... it continues to live. This thought brings a lot of comfort during the time of sorrow. When the heart weeps for the end of a dear one's life, the mind tells you that this is not the end, but a new beginning of the journey with God. Nonetheless, when grief over death, strikes us, it becomes difficult to be able to think rationally, especially when a loved one leaves us so suddenly at such a young age. May her soul RIP.
I leave you with this verse:
"Verily, verily, I say unto you, he that heareth my word, and believeth on Him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life." - John 5:24-26
Gone, but not forgotten. The memories live on. RIP sweet angel.
Monique Hansia
(Mother of Kay Hansia)
Rest in peace jayde
Ex-Riebeek girl
Raziah Mohamed class if 2006
R Carelse
Western Cape
Although I did not know Jayde , I am so deeply saddened by this tragedy and for your enormous loss! Jayde was such a beautiful woman and her inner beauty shone through just as much through her beautiful & warm smile.
God has undoubtedly called a true , loyal and beautiful angel to be by his side.
May his peace be with you all today as your remember and mourn the loss a beautiful daughter , wife , family member and friend and may you find comfort in the blessing of having know her and all the wonderful memories you have to cherish.
Jayde , may your sould rest in peace and may you always know joy , laughter and love in the arms of our loving Father!
Thank you for sharing your shining light with the world. You will always be remembered!
Love
Justine ( Durban )
xxxxxx
I followed with horror and then sadness the story of Jayde, as she resided only 5 minutes away from where my family and I live in PE.
I did not know her personally but being an ex-Riebeek girl myself I can only imagine how the school is feeling about the loss of a beloved teacher and colleague.
The school was a tight knit family even back in the day when I attended.
Love, hugs and prayers to all those effected by her loss.
Helen Alberts (nee Maisey)
STD 5W - 1989
large. What a stupid senseless act depriving so many people of a
beautiful and dedicated teacher. Such a traumatic experience for all
the beautiful young girls who are so lucky to have a loving and caring
body of teachers to help them through this terrible time. Bev Fourie.
Class of 69
Once a Riebeek girl, always a Riebeek girl. This loss has touch lives far and wide.
There is not much that one can say in times like these, except to say that everyone who is feeling this loss is in my thoughts.
Keep strong, hold each other, and take care of one another. Celebrate the life lived so that you can mourn the soul that has been lost.
Thinking of you all.
Your life, as beautiful as you, will be remembered and honoured for the wonderful woman you were. God has called you back to be with him. He always calls back the best first. Riebeek, I pray for healing over the staff and pupils.
" We begin to remember not just that you died, but that you lived. And that your life gave us memories too beautiful to forget"
Maybe gone but not forgotten
Rest well.....xox
Jenny Cohen
My heartfelt condolences, what a painful loss.
I may not have known Jayde personally as she was one ahead when
I was a student at Riebeeck but what happened to her pains me so much.
Looking at all her pictures and reading all the comments below tells what a
Wonderful individual she was. Her smile is so radiant and so genuine.
Go well Jayde, Go well fellow Riebeek Girl. You are an angel now. You will be extremely missed
I hope your soul will rest in eternal peace.
RIP JAYDE
Millicent Jack " Class of 2004 "
Once a Riebeek Girl, Always a Ribeek Girl
You have gone to soon Miss Inggs, but i salute you.
Losing this precious precious angel to inhumane actions is what makes it harderto deal with. Mrs P I hVe known my whole schooling career when she started teaching at Riebeek till I matriculated. I even had the opportunity to gain insight and motivation from her while doing my practical at Riebeek in 2013. Mrs P or Miss Inggs as I know you best.
"Its been a long day without you my friend"
let the light guide you home. Your legacy will forever live on. not Only in Riebeek but all over.
once a Riebeek girl always a Riebeek girl.
Go well Ma'am
Lynley. x
When people ask me about her, I'd say - she was a beautiful woman, inside and out. She had such an amazing heart full of compassion for those around her. I am blessed to have received the opportunity to get to know her when assisting at Riebeek. Jayde was always willing to help, because that's who she was. Everyone loved her and the kids would have such a huge smile on her face whenever they saw her. The day came last year where I had to say 'goodbye' because it was time for me to move on. You hugged me that day, and told me that if I need anything - I should call. Thank you Jayde for being who you are. I will never forget you. Your laugh and your smile... lives on in my mind, and you will forever live on in my heart.
“Your positive attitude, bright personality and your beautiful smile shall dwell inside the buildings of Riebeek College and in my heart.”
“You taught us things that made us proud, you are now in a better place”
“Walking in the corridors and seeing that everlasting smile, always turned my bad day into the best day. I remember coming to you, going through some tough times at home and not a single day did you hesitate to give me comfort. You always out yourself in my shoes and made me realise that people do care. I thank the Lord for having met such a loving soul like you.”
“I enjoy the memories we had. I remember before the hockey festival you gave the whole team pink headbands to play with, and as a team we took a selfie. I also remember on Monday 20th April when I was excited to get number 9 written on my bottle.”
“I love you so much and I guess heaven couldn’t wait to see you. So go on, go home and remember that you are an angel. We love you from the moon and back, from earth to pluto and back. We hope to see you again soon.”
“Mrs Panayioutou, you taught me life skills I needed. You made me laugh and you made my school days happier. No one can replace you, you are amazing,”
“She was amazing. Beautiful. Colourful. Colourful because she stood out, she was a rainbow in my grey cloud. Mrs Panayioutou was always there for me when I needed her. She was my role model as I looked up to her. She was a mentor and hero. Mrs P was strong and brave. I am so blessed to be able to have known her. May her soul rest in peace and fly free.”
“Mrs Panayioutou, a true reflection of our living God. I may not have known you very well, but your presence touched my soul too. We will celebrate and remember the time you shared with us.”
“Owl miss you Mrs P always. I will treasure the moments you walked into class and made me laugh.”
Dear Mrs P
You were one of the best teachers I knew. You will always have a place in our hearts. No body on this planet could ever replace you as you were so amazing. The whole of grade 6 and the school misses you. May you rest in peace.
Love Caitlin Peters
“Jayde Panayioutou was the brightest and happiest teacher I know. She was always there when somebody wanted to talk or just cry on her shoulder. She taught me for two years and said she would follow us till matric. When, in grade 7, she got engaged, we planned her wedding and the dress she would wear. This was three years ago. She has touched many hearts, not only at Riebeek but everywhere in the Eastern Cape. She was such a beautiful person, she was honest, loyal and kind and she made it seem as if there were no evil in this world. She is in a better place and we have to rest our hearts knowing that she would want our lives to continues and move on, no matter what. She is still with us even though we cannot see her.”
“Dear Mrs P. I miss you, but I know Ill see you one day. RIP I have lots of things to tell you, but Ill see you in Heaven.”
“Mrs P was and always will be an important person in my life, that I will always remember. Mrs P was not only my grade 6 and 7 teacher, but a great role model for me. Her beauty shone from the inside out for everyone to see and love. There are many wonderful memories that we have of her, memories we will cherish. Mrs P was a wonderful person and we are fortunate to say we knew an angel.”
Dance around the golden clouds
For the lord has chosen you to be with him
And we should feel nothing but proud
Although he has taken you from us
And our pain a lifetime will last
Your memory will never escape us
But make us glad for the time we did have
Your face will always be hidden
Deep inside our hearts
Each precious moment you gave us
Shall never, ever depart
So go and run free with the angels
As they sing so tenderly
And please be sure to tell them
To take good care of you for me"
My heart is so incredibly sad for Jayde's family, friends and colleagues. Jayde will be sorely missed but never ever forgotten!
I wish to send my condolences to Jayde's family, friends and everyone who is deeply affected by her passing, it really has shattered the hearts of many souls.
I have known her since my high school days when she was still teaching the young ones. Young woman with such an amazing spirit and character.
You might be gone but will forever remain in the hearts of many girls who looked up to you.
May your wonderful soul rest in peace and may we always remember that "Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted." Matthew 5:4
Once a Riebeek girl, always a Riebeek girl.
Zimasa Jam Jam
Class of 2009
Its easy to replace a hockey manager , but its not easy to replace you .
You such an incredible , talented , intelligent and beautiful young lady , heaven must be rejoicing to have recieved an angel like you .
You're legacy goes on forever .
Once a riebeek girl ? Always a riebeek girl <3
Ora et labora
My gaurdian angel ♥
I wish to express my sincerest condolences on the passing of Mrs Panayiotou. My heart goes out to Jayde's family, friends, the school and the girls during this very tragic time.
I have known Jayde since our days at College Hill, until we matriculated in 2003. I will remember her for always for being a sweet and kind lady. Beautiful with an equally beautiful heart.
In times like these, I often seek refuge in a hymn that was always sung at Founders Day - Let us now praise famous men. This hymn is derived from Ecclesiastics chapter 44. I am particularly drawn to verse 12 which reads as follows 'Their seed standeth fast, and their glory shall not be blotted out'
May Jayde's seed stand fast, and may her glory never be blotted out.
Rest in Peace, Old Girl.
Sincerest condolences,
Phumelela Maliza
Matric Class of 2003
Sleep well Jayde. We salute and love you dearly,
This poised, beautiful and caring soul was a pupil at Riebeek College when I taught there, and later returned to the school as a much-loved, progressive and popular teacher. Her strong friendships with Cherise Swanepoel and others, the respect she earned through both her character and profession and the national outpouring of grief at her tragic passing are a bold tribute to a woman of purpose - one who lived to serve others; to love wholeheartedly; to imbue her environment with joy. We salute you, precious Jayde Panayiotou. In this time of unutterable sadness, you have touched the lives of thousands upon thousands, many of whom never met you, but who hold you, and those who love you, in their hearts today - and forever. 'Goodnight sweet princess; and flights of angels sing thee to thy rest'.
It is unbearable to even come to terms with the events of the past two days pertaining to Mrs Panayiotou's kidnapping and death. Never could any of us had thought that such a thing would happen to such a delightful and beautiful soul.
Just like everyone who had heard the devastating news of her kidnapping yesterday, I prayed for her safe arrival and deliverance to her family. Additional prayers went up for her from my Connect group, fellow ministers and friends. My aim is to say the pain is felt by all of us and though it all seems surreal, we have to trust that through this whole ordeal, the presence of God was upon Mrs Panayiotou and still is.
I will never forget the tender spirit she carried. It was a spirit of love, compassion and joy. Her beautiful, sparkling smile and approachable character made Mrs P a favourite even among the high school girls. I will never forget the lovely times I had in her classroom and the life lessons I learned from observing and interacting with her. Although Mrs P, whom many of us still saw as "Miss Inggs", may be thought of as gone too soon, she leaves a legacy and a spark with each Riebeek girl and family member.
To her family, I pray that God's grace and mercy be upon you now more than ever before. May you find comfort in His loving arms and May His peace bring rest to your souls. May He wipe all your tears and turn your mourning into dancing.
Our prayers continue to be with you during this time.
With humble condolences
Asisipho Tsotsa