Death of popular religious leader
Zululand is grieving the sudden death of Reverend Mafu
‘FATHER, awu Baba, awu Father.’
After collapsing at his home on Wednesday evening a week before his birthday, a beloved eSikhaleni religious leader, Reverend Isiah Mafu (73), whispered these last words.
While others were in a state of panic, Mafu called on his faith and used his final moments to communicate with the God he had served all his life.
This much-loved pastor and philanthropist collapsed in his home at KwaNdaye Reserve while surrounded by his family .
He was rushed to Thokozani Clinic where he died soon after arrival.
‘He suffered from diabetes, but was apparently managing it well. On Wednesday, he conducted all his normal duties with no signs of being sick,’ said sister-in-law Nompumelelo Makhanya.
‘Soon after supper he started moving from one chair to another, but the family didn’t think much of it until he collapsed.’
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Mafu was a leader of the Grace Evangelical Church, a known humanitarian, teacher and a devoted man of God.
He was involved in many charitable initiatives, including building a crèche for underprivileged children in the area.
On Monday his son Ndumiso told Eyethu Bay Watch that his father was a man filled with love and a people’s person.
‘He constantly expressed his love to his children. That’s one thing we will take from him, his ability to love and spread love,’ Ndumiso said.
Heartfelt messages of condolences have been pouring in from all walks of life.
Thousands have stated their shock on various social media platforms, while others expressed their gratitude, sharing stories on how he helped them in life.
His niece and Miss South Africa top 5 finalists, Sihle Makhanya, said the family suffered a terrible loss, but she will always remember him as a great uncle and leader.
‘He was my hero, a man amongst men who had so much love for his family, congregation and the community. He made me grow as a person and in Christ, and always encouraged me to use my fame as a platform to do good for others.’
Mafu was laid to rest on Saturday and is survived by his wife Nokuthulason. son Ndumiso and daughter Ziphozomusa.
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