The mother of internationally acclaimed composer and producer Lebo M, Nomvula Morake, was given a heartfelt send-off on Tuesday, following her passing on February 28 at the age of 100.
The funeral service took place at the Fourways Memorial Chapel in Gauteng, where family, friends, and celebrity guests gathered to pay their final respects. After the ceremony, she was laid to rest at the Fourways Memorial Cemetery, marking the end of a long and remarkable life filled with love, strength, and resilience.
A Star-Studded Farewell
The funeral was attended by several high-profile figures from South Africa’s entertainment industry, reflecting the impact and legacy of the Morake family. Among the mourners were celebrated producer and playwright Duma Ka Ndlovu, radio personality Tbo Touch, veteran journalist Phil Molefe, media personality Anele Mdoda, Maskandi musician Khuzani, musical group Kwela Tebza, and television producer Vukile Zondi.
The ceremony was deeply emotional, with many in attendance remembering Magogo Morake as a warm, loving, and vibrant woman who touched the lives of those around her.
Messages of Comfort and Musical Tributes
Music played an important role in the service, as a way of honoring Nomvula Morake’s life and legacy. The Soweto Spiritual Singers choir performed alongside her son, Lebo M, delivering a moving tribute through song.
Gospel artist Khaya Mthethwa, who could not attend in person, shared a recorded message of comfort for the grieving family. His message was one of strength, healing, and remembrance, reinforcing how Morake’s spirit and legacy would live on through her loved ones.
Memories of a Life Well Lived
Throughout the service, speakers took turns sharing their fondest memories of Magogo Morake, highlighting her humor, kindness, and unwavering strength.
One of the most touching tributes came from Matron Renee Richards, who spoke about Morake’s final years at the Waterfall Frail Care Centre, where she was loved by both staff and residents.
“Magogo Morake was a joyful person. She was famously known at the centre for her jokes and singing abilities,” Richards recalled.
Her words painted a picture of a spirited and vibrant woman who continued to bring joy and laughter to those around her, even in her later years.
A Daughter’s Love and Tribute
Perhaps the most emotional moment of the funeral was when her daughter, Lindi Morake, took the stage to share her heartfelt tribute to her late mother.
“Mama was a strong person. She dedicated her life to everyone by showing love and respect. She was a lovely person to have around and was active. You’d think she wasn’t 100 years old,” she said.
Her words captured the essence of Nomvula Morake’s life, emphasizing her strength, kindness, and unwavering love for her family and those around her.
A Legacy That Lives On
Though Nomvula Morake is no longer physically present, her legacy remains strong through her children, grandchildren, and all the lives she touched. Her son, Lebo M, has built a name for himself on global stages, making significant contributions to the music and entertainment industry. His extraordinary talent and passion for music are testaments to the strong foundation of love and support that his mother provided.
The celebration of her life was not just about mourning her passing but also about honoring the incredible journey she took—a century filled with love, laughter, and resilience.
As family, friends, and admirers said their final goodbyes, one thing was clear: Nomvula Morake’s memory will continue to shine brightly through the lives she touched and the legacy she leaves behind.
