Gone too soon.

Family, friends and even a nearby school paid their last respects to young Steven Clerence Naibuka yesterday at the Methodist Church in Nabua.

Ten-year-old Steven was one of the two fatalities from the bus accident in Lakena in Nausori last week.

Steven’s cousin and namesake said the family was still in shock about losing such a loving soul.

“He was my namesake. He was liked by everyone and he had a special place as both his parents had passed away,” Mr Naibuka said.

“His mother Amelia passed away last year and father Vetaia in April. He was being looked after by Elena, his stepmom.

“This was one of the reasons why the family members always looked after my yaca (namesake).”

The church was full as the morning service started on a gloomy and rainy Thursday.

After the moving church service, Steven’s body was taken to his school in Nausori where his school mates had a chance to say their final goodbyes.

Steven was buried at the Nasinu Cemetery.

Edited by Susana Tuilau