When news of David Sejobe’s passing broke, it spread far beyond those who knew him, touching people who recognised something familiar in his kindness.
Johannesburg, South Africa (04 February 2026) – David Sejobe was not famous. He did not hold power or position. Yet his passing has united South Africans in a way that few stories ever do, reminding us that the people who shape our days are often the ones we pass in the street.
David tragically passed away on Friday. When the news broke on Saturday, it landed with a weight that rippled far beyond his family, friends and colleagues. It felt as though the country collectively stopped for a moment, trying to understand how the loss of one man could feel so personal to so many people. Some knew him well. Others only knew his smile. Many didn’t know his name at all, but they knew his presence. Since then, David’s story has moved from daily conversations into the national consciousness. His passing has made front-page news, and his name has trended across social media platforms as South Africans share memories, tributes and reflections. It is rare for a man who lived such an “unassuming” life to be spoken about so widely, and yet it feels entirely fitting. The attention has not been driven by spectacle but by recognition.
By Saturday afternoon, grief had already begun to turn into action. A crowdfunding campaign was launched by colleagues, hoping to raise R20,000 to help support David’s family. The intention was simple and practical: to assist with funeral and memorial expenses, and to offer immediate financial support as his loved ones faced the shock and pain of losing him. No one expected what would follow.
By Sunday, the total had climbed to R170,000.
On Monday, motorists, pedestrians and colleagues gathered outside MultiChoice’s offices in Randburg. Cars hooted. People whistled. Voices called out in celebration of a life that had become part of their daily rhythm. Candles and flowers were placed at the entrance, near the gate where David would normally stand, often jumping into the air as he greeted passing cars and people with unmistakable joy.
Rest in peace, David. Your smile and laughter will be missed by your Fidelity colleagues. For 12 years as a Security Officer, your positivity brightened our days.
Our condolences to David’s family, friends, and colleagues. #DavidSejobe #RestInPeace #Fidelity pic.twitter.com/2OEy4a3L4s
— Fidelity Services Group (@Fidelity_Secure) February 2, 2026
On Tuesday, a billboard went up across Bram Fischer Drive in his honour. Later that afternoon, MultiChoice staff and Randburg residents gathered outside the building, singing and cheering for passing traffic. Hundreds of motorists responded with hoots of their own, turning an ordinary weekday into a shared moment of remembrance.
The teams held a memorial for David Sejobe, celebrating and remembering his life, kindness, and the joy he brought to others. Donation to his family can be made here https://t.co/SG1GDHZYGB #davidsejobe pic.twitter.com/iu3kfUSycP
— Brenda (@b_dizzy) February 3, 2026
By Wednesday morning, the nation woke to the news that the crowdfunding campaign had reached R400,000.
Alongside the donations came an outpouring of words that revealed why David’s story has touched such a nerve.
“We didn’t all know your name, but we knew your smile.” Another simply said,
“The good we do lives on after us.”
Again and again, people spoke about how David made their days lighter, not through grand gestures, but through consistency, warmth and genuine care.
Some messages came from those who had known him for years.
“I walked past him every morning and afternoon to and from work,” one person shared. “His warm smile was consistent every single day. He had his own struggles, but still managed to make other people’s days better with his energy and positivity.”
Others came from people who had never met him but felt compelled to respond.
“I never knew David,” one comment read, “but I am glad his family is continuing to feel his impact.”
One particularly powerful message spoke about how far that impact has travelled. It described David as someone whose very existence sent ripples through society, reminding people to care, appreciate and gather together as one. The writer thanked him for helping people remember the good that exists among us, often unnoticed, often unsung. That is perhaps why this story has resonated so deeply. People who knew David say he was kind. People who didn’t know him are being moved to be kinder. His life has become a mirror, reflecting something many South Africans recognise and long for: a sense of connection that doesn’t rely on status or recognition.
South Africa has united in grief, but also in intention. To remember to be kinder to everyone, to greet one another and to acknowledge the humanity of all South Africans.
As one message urged, “Let’s turn his memory into a movement. Spread kindness. We need it more than ever.”
David’s story is tragic and heartbreaking, but it’s not about tragedy alone. It is about what happens when a life lived with generosity leaves a space that others rush to fill with care. You don’t need fame or power to change the tone of a nation. Sometimes all it takes is showing up with a smile, day after day, and meaning it. And in the way South Africa has responded, it’s clear that this kind of kindness does not disappear. It carries on… in all of us.
If only you were here to see this all, David. South Africa is a country that can many times feel divided, but you, your kindness, and your story have united us all.
Please click here to support the family with a donation.
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