Johannesburg - Masefaku Sophia Motlanthe was remembered for her humanity and love - in a jam-packed, emotional and moving memorial service, on Thursday.
Deputy President Kgalema Motlanthe's mother passed away last Friday - a day before his wedding to long-term partner Gugu Mtshali in Houghton, Johannesburg.
She died of natural causes at her home in Meadowlands, Soweto. She was 89-years-old.
Deputy President Motlanthe did not attend the memorial service - as he was not feeling well, but several community members, as well as anti-apartheid activist, Sophia Williams De Bruyn, Cyril Ramaphosa, and Gwede Mantashe, Irvin Khoza, Trevor Manuel and Paul Mashatile attended the memorial service.
Home Affairs Minister Naledi Pandor, who spoke on behalf of government, said she was one of the pillars of strength for the deputy president during the period of detention and imprisonment in Robben Island.
“In more ways than one, the late Mrs Motlanthe was indeed one of the millions of unsung heroes of our people, who in many ways than one supported the cause of freedom through moral, financial and material support,” said Minister Pandor.
Friends spoke about her humble spirit -- even when her son became the Deputy President of the country.
“MaMotlanthe never changed because her son was in a top position, she still opened her home to us,” one of the former community members said.
Family members said she embodied love and passion for everyone around her.
President Jacob Zuma was among the first who conveyed his condolences to the family. In his message on Monday President Zuma said: "The nation's thoughts and prayers are with the Deputy President's family at this sad moment. I wish to convey, on behalf of government and the people of South Africa, our deepest words of condolence. May her soul rest in peace”.
MaMotlanthe will be laid to rest on Saturday. – SAnews.gov.za
