Former Gaza hostage Tamir Nimrodi was laid to rest in Kfar Saba on Thursday after being returned during phase one of US President Donald Trump's Gaza peace plan.
“How am I supposed to say goodbye to my firstborn son? To my only son? How do you sum up 18 years together and two more years of longing?” Tamir’s mother, Herut Nimrodi, said at the funeral.
“I am saying goodbye to your body today, but not to you. Rest, my child. Your body has been through enough. Your soul is finally free… We will meet face to face again in the future, me with wrinkles and white hair, and you... You will remain forever my pure child, 18 years old.”
Tamir Nimrodi: A loving brother with a passion for education
For over two years, almost nothing had been known of the fate of 20-year-old Tamir Nimrodi. On Wednesday morning, it was announced that his remains were identified among the four deceased hostages returned Tuesday night.
The Nimrodi family was the only hostage family not to be told if their loved one will be returning alive or not, Tamir’s mother, Herut, told BBC News earlier this week. The family previously shared that there was serious concern for his welfare.
Before his abduction, Tamir was a loving brother to Mika and Amit and a valued member of his community, where he made it his personal mission to support lone soldiers. His role as an education officer was deeply meaningful for him, Herut has told Israeli media, as he spent much of his life struggling with ADHD.
Known for his thoughtful nature, Tamir had a love of trivia, quizzes, and cooking.
Danielle Greyman-Kennard contributed to this report.