The family of a South African nurse who died from Covid-19 have thanked “the people of Scotland” for attending her funeral in their place.
Johanna Daniels worked at a care centre in Dundee but tragically died last month just days before her birthday.
Her service of remembrance was attended by a number of close friends but sadly her sons, Patrick Daniels and Brandy Van Staden, who still live in South Africa, couldn’t come.
The “selfless and dedicated” 67-year-old worked at the Pitkerro Care Centre and was rushed to hospital on April 12.
She tested positive for coronavirus and died the following day after her condition quickly deteriorated.
Mourners heard how Johanna was born in De Aar, Northern Cape, South Africa, before moving to Tayside in 2003 for work and later became a British citizen.
Her family, friends and colleagues say she loved helping others and often worked extra hours because she was so passionate about nursing.
Paying tribute to his mum, Patrick said: “She was the glue of our family and the best mother.
“God chose her specially for us. We were blessed, not only because she was our mother but because she loved us unconditionally.
“To the people in Scotland, thank you for being there for her, my family appreciate it.
“They were there for our mother when we could not. The love you showed shows us how much you loved her. From the bottom of our hearts we thank you and want you to know we appreciate it.
“Thank you to everyone for their prayers.”
While Brandy added: “My mum was a very hard working, ambitious, and caring person, who loved to help others.
“She put herself last, loved us dearly and was very religious.
“We have found it very difficult being away from home for so many years and now not being able to be there for her.”
The Record revealed last month that nine people – including Johanna – died at the care home.
Management confirmed the fatalities after a former care worker revealed she had resigned in “disgust” at the conditions she was forced to work under while tackling the Covid-19 pandemic.
She has reported Pitkerro to the Care Inspectorate, which confirmed it was “considering all information” carefully.
Operator Hudson Healthcare has strenuously denied any wrongdoing, stating it had followed national safety guidance “every step of the way”.
