Touching scenes unfolded at the Coetzenburg Centre in Stellenbosch on Saturday, 25 July 2026, as family, teammates, and loved ones gathered to bid a final farewell to former Bafana Bafana footballer Jayden Adams.
The 25-year-old midfielder was laid to rest in a solemn memorial service that highlighted his legacy both on and off the pitch.
Family Unites at Funeral Service
Among those paying their respects were both mothers of Adams’ children, Aqueelah Adendorf and Jody Solomons, who sat alongside one another throughout the service.
- Candle Lighting Ceremony: Both women were invited to light candles in honor of the late soccer star, while their young children—daughter Allaia-Jayda and son Jude—were surrounded by supportive family members.
- Social Media Reflection: Following the service, Solomons shared photographs with her young son on social media, drawing messages of support from well-wishers and fans offering condolences.
Adendorf Addresses Rumours and Calls for Respect
Meanwhile, Adams’ long-time partner, Aqueelah Adendorf, addressed online speculation and harassment surrounding his passing in a social media statement:
“The amount of false stories and assumptions being spread about me is heartbreaking. It’s unfair to make me the villain based on rumours. I don’t owe strangers an explanation. But I do ask for one thing; please stop spreading lies and stop using Jayden’s name to create a story,” Adendorf shared. “He deserves to be remembered with dignity and respect.”
Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie previously voiced concern over online harassment directed at the family, urging the public and football community to respect the family’s privacy and allow them to grieve.
