Vilisi Verebasoga, from Tavualevu Village, is grappling with the unexpected loss of her husband, Jope Tuivanuavou, who tragically died in a locomotive accident at Lausa, Tavua, around noon on Wednesday. The 55-year-old was pronounced dead at the scene, while a fellow worker sustained serious injuries and is currently being treated at Aspen Medical Lautoka Hospital.
The accident occurred while the duo was transporting sugarcane to the Lautoka Mill, with eyewitness accounts indicating that the locomotive derailed from a sugarcane bridge.
Verebasoga described her husband as a devoted man of faith, serving as the senior pastor of the Fiji Evangelical Church’s Tavua branch. “I was at home when one of the workers informed me about the accident, and it profoundly impacted me. Even amidst this tragedy, I give thanks to God. I had been receiving signs from Him, prompting me to fast for a week,” she shared.
She recounted that during the previous night’s prayer meeting, her husband had invited the group to stay at their home. On the fateful morning, she awoke him to pray, sensing something was amiss. After their prayer session, they shared breakfast and a hug before he departed for work. “Our last exchange was our goodbye,” she mentioned.
Earlier in the week, Tuivanuavou had communicated with their children residing in New Zealand, Kadavu, and at home, encouraging them to take care of themselves. “Our children are struggling to cope with his sudden passing, as he was a humble, caring, healthy family man,” said Verebasoga.
Reflecting on her faith, she quoted Proverbs 19:21, stating, “We may have many plans, but God’s will prevails.” She expressed peace in accepting her husband’s fate, knowing he is in the Lord’s care.
Funeral arrangements will be finalized following Mr. Tuivanuavou’s post-mortem. Ms. Verebasoga mentioned that relatives from New Zealand are expected to arrive next week, potentially to coincide with the funeral services. He is survived by his wife, eight children, and four grandchildren.