A sudden tragedy has struck Tavualevu Village as Vilisi Verebasoga mourns the unexpected loss of her husband, Jope Tuivanuavou, who died in a locomotive accident on Wednesday. The incident occurred around noon in Lausa, Tavua, while Tuivanuavou, 55, was transporting sugarcane to the Lautoka Mill. Eyewitnesses reported that the locomotive derailed off a sugarcane bridge, resulting in his immediate death, while a colleague suffered serious injuries and is currently receiving treatment at Aspen Medical Lautoka Hospital.
Verebasoga described her late husband as a devoted man of faith, serving as a senior pastor at the Fiji Evangelical Church in Tavua. She recounted the moment she received the heartbreaking news, stating, “I was at home when one of the workers called me and told me what had happened; it really affected me.” Despite her grief, she expressed her gratitude to God for providing her with signs prior to the incident, leading her to fast for a week to seek guidance.
Reflecting on the days leading up to the tragedy, Verebasoga shared that after their prayer meeting on Tuesday night, her husband invited group members to spend the night at their home. The following morning, she awakened him to pray, as she had a premonition something might be wrong. After breakfast and a hug, they said their goodbyes, which would be their final moments together.
She also mentioned that earlier in the week, Tuivanuavou had spoken with their children, encouraging them to take care of themselves. The family is struggling to cope with his sudden passing, describing him as a humble and caring individual dedicated to his loved ones.
Though the pain of loss is palpable, Verebasoga finds solace in her faith, quoting Proverbs 19:21: “We may have many plans, but God’s will prevails.” She acknowledges that accepting this loss is part of her journey, and she feels at peace knowing her husband is in the Lord’s care.
Funeral arrangements will be made following Tuivanuavou’s post-mortem. His relatives from New Zealand are expected to arrive next week, suggesting the funeral may take place then. He is survived by his wife, eight children, and four grandchildren.