The news of Winnie Khumalo’s passing has left many in shock and sorrow.
As a beloved figure in the South African music scene, her impact was profound, and her legacy will surely endure.
In her final moments, the words she shared with her family were filled with deep emotion and love, reflecting the strong bonds she had cultivated throughout her life.
Her daughter, Rethabile Khumalo, has been particularly vocal about the pain of losing her mother.
In interviews, she has shared the intimate details of Winnie’s last moments, emphasizing how important it was for them to be together as a family during this difficult time.
Rethabile described the atmosphere as both somber and filled with warmth, as they reminisced about cherished memories and the love they shared.
Winnie’s last words were not only a farewell but also a testament to her strength and resilience.
She expressed gratitude for her family and the support they provided her throughout her life.
This heartfelt message resonated with those present, leaving them with a sense of comfort amidst their grief.
The profound sadness surrounding her passing is matched only by the love and respect she garnered throughout her career.
Fans and fellow artists alike have taken to social media to express their condolences, sharing their own memories and tributes to the music legend.
As we reflect on Winnie Khumalo’s life, it is essential to remember the joy and inspiration she brought to so many through her music.
Her powerful voice and emotional depth touched the hearts of countless listeners, creating a lasting bond that will not be easily forgotten.
In the wake of her passing, Rethabile and the rest of the family are committed to honoring her legacy.
They plan to celebrate her life through a memorial service that will showcase her contributions to music and the profound impact she had on those around her.
This gathering will provide an opportunity for fans and loved ones to come together, share their stories, and pay tribute to a remarkable woman whose spirit will continue to inspire.
Winnie Khumalo’s last words serve as a poignant reminder of the importance of love, family, and the connections we forge throughout our lives.
As we mourn her loss, let us also celebrate the incredible life she lived and the music that will forever echo in our hearts.
Her legacy is not just in her songs but in the lives she touched and the love she shared with those around her.
Rest in peace, Winnie Khumalo.
You will be deeply missed, but your spirit will live on through your music and the memories we hold dear.
Legendary South African actress and singer Winnie Khumalo, best known for her hit song ‘Live My Life,’ has died at 51 after a short illness, a family representative confirmed.
Family spokesperson, Tshephi Rakeepile, confirmed that Khumalo died on Tuesday after a short illness.
In an interview with the SABC, Rakeepile expressed that the family is in deep sorrow, saying: “We are deeply saddened as a family to announce the death of our dearly beloved sister, a mother, our friend; she passed away after a short illness and as a family at this stage we are deeply saddened.”
Khumalo was the mother of singer Rethabile Khumalo and the late boxing champion Digaan Thobela’s son, Thabo Khumalo.
Rakeepile disclosed that Khumalo was alone when she fell ill and her daughter was not present at that time.
“Well, yes, she was sick at that moment and her daughter was out, but it was her daughter (Rethabile) that actually came back home to come and collect her so that she could be taken to the hospital,” she said.
According to Rakeepile, Rethabile tried to help her mother when she arrived home.
“She did try to help her at that time; at that moment she was really not well.”
Rakeepile said Khumalo died on her way to the hospital to get medical attention.
“But unfortunately, on their drive to the hospital, that’s when she passed away, because when they arrived at the hospital, they pronounced the death on arrival.”
The cause of her death is unknown at the moment; however, she said the family is at a “loss” and devastated by Khumalo’s death.
Khumalo leaves behind three grandchildren and extended family who are mourning her death.
Winnie Khumalo was born in Mofolo, north Soweto, and began her music career at the age of 15.
She released her debut album Hey Laitie, Tshina Tshina, which was produced by music legend Sello Chicco Twala.
In the early 1980s, she released a gospel album titled Dlamini, followed by another gospel album titled Izoni Zami in the 1990s, produced by Pastor Langa Dube.
Khumalo has worked with notable musicians such as the late Brenda Fassie as a backing vocalist and collaborated with the likes of Pure Magic Sipho Mbele, Brothers of Peace (B.O.P), Bongo Maffin, Zonke Dikana, and DJ Cleo.
Khumalo has graced small television screens on SABC’s series Mponeng and Muvhango, portraying the role of a sangoma (traditional healer).
She also played in a stage play called The Journey, including Thwala’s film Madluphuthu.
After taking a break from the music industry to raise her children, Khumalo made a successful comeback in 2008, with a mature album titled I Just Wanna Live My Life, which was produced and distributed by Kalawa Jazzmee Records Oskido “Oscar” Mdlongwa.
The album was a hit, selling more than 25,000 copies and earning a gold record, with its smash single, I Just Wanna Live My Life, dominating the music charts, receiving nominations, including the Channel O Music Awards.
Khumalo went on to take the music industry by storm by releasing another hit song titled Mina Ngiyohlala Nginje, composed by Twala, which saw her rocking the stage with former president Jacob Zuma during the 2009 African National Congress (ANC) election campaigns.
Following the news of her death, social media has been flooded with tributes from fans, supporters, and the public paying tribute and honoring the late singer.
Many have shared their favorite songs and memories, reflecting on how Winnie Khumalo’s music inspired them and shaped their lives.
As the outpouring of grief continues, it is clear that Winnie Khumalo’s legacy will live on through her music and the countless individuals she touched throughout her life.
Her story is one of perseverance, talent, and an unwavering commitment to her craft, making her a true icon in the South African music industry.
In this time of mourning, it is essential to remember the joy she brought to so many and the impact her artistry had on the cultural landscape of South Africa.
Winnie Khumalo’s journey reminds us of the power of music to connect people, heal wounds, and bring joy even in the darkest of times.
As we reflect on her life, let us honor her memory by celebrating her contributions to music and the legacy she leaves behind.
Her spirit will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of artists and musicians, reminding us all of the importance of creativity, passion, and love in our lives.
Rest in peace, Winnie Khumalo. Your voice may have been silenced, but your music will forever resonate in our hearts.
You will be remembered not just for your songs, but for the love and light you brought into this world.