Social media unites behind George family following the tragic death of 12-year-old
Morgan Mentoor.
Image: Facebook
“This is by far the saddest news of 2026. I don’t know this child but I feel immense sadness…
“He is so handsome… may God be with his family during this tragedy.”
That’s just one of the social media comments this past week following the tragic death of 12-year-old Morgan Mentoor from George on May 23, 2026.
The young karate champion’s life was honoured in a string of viral posts last week, with reports emerging that he has taken his own life.
His mother, Gaynor, said that she had shared her story and said they would “cling to his loving memory”.
Gaynor had shared numerous posts of her talented son.
Sunday morning was yet another tough one for Morgan’s mom. As she was getting ready to go to church, she wrote on Facebook: “Die tyd maak ons kla vir kerk, as ek sy klere stryk, en hy sien dit is nie swart broek en wit t-shirt nie, dan moes ek weer alles oorstryk. Morgan, Sondae gaan ek jou miss Morgie Porkie. (By this time we are getting ready for church. When I iron his clothes and he sees that it’s not black pants and a white t-shirt, then I have to iron everything again.)
“Vir wie moet ek dophou in kerk? Wie gaan my siel na kerk uittrek en se wat was gese?” (Who should I look out for in church? Who will tease me after church?)
Her pain was shared by thousands all over South Africa.
Morgan was an altar boy at St Paul’s Anglican Church in Conville, made videos professing his faith, and was dedicated to his karate and those who met him knew how special he was.
One person wrote: “People who got to know him will feel and understand your pain. I met him and the short amount of time he captured not only my heart, but of the whole team he was part of…
“To his mom, no one knows how you’re feeling, take your time, cherish all the memories. Soft be thy rest Morgan, till we meet again.”
At Outeniqua Primary where he went to school, fellow learners wrote letters to the karate kid - often referring to him as the GOAT - Greatest of All Time.
A tribute from his school described the young champ as someone who “touched” the school community.
Morgan serving in church.
Image: Facebook
The Facebook post read: “With deep sadness, we say goodbye to Morgan Mentoor, a beloved Grade 6 learner whose life touched our school community.
“We celebrate his life, his smile, his presence, and the beautiful memories he leaves behind. Even though our hearts are aching, we remain grateful for the time we shared with him.”