‘Mom was a fighter’: Chiume's children remember her strength
Connie Chiume, a legendary figure in South African television and film, was laid to rest with dignity and deep respect as family, friends, and colleagues gathered to honor her remarkable legacy.
The family and friends of the late actress Connie Chiume gathered at the Oasis of Life Family Church in Daveyton to bid a dignified farewell and celebrate her remarkable life and legacy.
Known to millions for her unforgettable roles in iconic South African productions such as “Gomora”, “Zone 14”, and “Rhythm City”, Chiume’s presence on screen was matched only by her warmth and generosity off-screen.
As those who knew her best came together to celebrate her life, it was clear that the legacy she leaves behind is one of immense talent, boundless kindness, and unwavering dedication to her craft.
The service saw a remarkable turnout, with many of South Africa’s entertainment luminaries present to pay their last respects.
The church was filled with familiar faces from television and film, all of whom had either worked with Chiume or been inspired by her trailblazing career.
The “Gomora” crew, who worked closely with her in one of her most recent roles, was in attendance, with Katlego Danke, who played her daughter on the show, described her as a larger-than-life figure and a very hard-working person.
The atmosphere was one of both sorrow and celebration as the gathering remembered the joy Chiume brought into their lives.
Rami Chuene, a close friend and fellow actress, led the service as the programme director. Her poised and heartfelt guidance through the proceedings set the tone for a moving tribute to a beloved icon.
“Connie was more than just a colleague,” Chuene said. “She was a mentor, a friend, and a beacon of hope for so many of us in this industry.”
Among the prominent figures in attendance were political leaders from the City of Ekurhuleni, including Speaker Cllr Nthabiseng Tshivhenga and MMC for Community Safety Cllr Sizakele Masuku.
Their presence underscored the significant impact Chiume had beyond the entertainment world.
In a special tribute to her contributions to South African culture, the South African Police Service (SAPS) and Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD) were also present at the funeral.
In a gesture of deep respect, the SAPS draped Chiume’s coffin with the South African flag, symbolizing her status as a national treasure.
The newly appointed Minister of Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, delivered the obituary, capturing the essence of Chiume’s contributions to South African culture.
“Connie was not just an actress,” McKenzie remarked. “She was a symbol of resilience, grace, and the enduring power of storytelling.”
Fikile Mbalula, a prominent political figure, also shared his reflections, stating, “She started a great thing in the industry, motivating a lot of young people. Sis Connie wrote a book, and today we are witnessing that book. She was a very lovely and bubbly person, determined in everything she pursued. We grew up watching her on TV.”
The most emotional moments of the service came from Chiume’s children—Tumi, Thabisile, Rameetse, Nolungelo, and Thando—who spoke of their mother’s unwavering strength and the love she poured into her family.
Tumi remembered her mother as a fierce advocate for justice within the entertainment industry, saying, “My mom was a fighter, always standing up for what was right.” Rameetse touched on the exploitation that his mother and many other actors faced, expressing his frustration.
“Who would work a 70-year-old woman for 16 hours a day?” Tumi echoed these sentiments, adding, “My mom was never rewarded enough for the work she did in the industry. She loved it so much, but she was in pain as the industry overworked her.”
Thando, following in her mother’s footsteps, vowed to carry on her mother’s legacy, pledging, “I am willing to go the extra mile to achieve the goals my mom would have wanted to accomplish.”
The children collectively expressed their gratitude for the values their mother instilled in them, emphasizing her teachings on humility, compassion, and a deep faith in Jesus Christ.
After the service, the procession moved to Crystal Park Cemetery, Lala NgoXolo, where Chiume was laid to rest with dignity and honour.
The public was invited to join the family in this final tribute, as they paid their respects to a woman who had given so much to the nation.
The service included a deeply moving musical tribute from her grandson, known by his stage name “Kulture,” who performed an original song titled “Rest in Peace” in her honour.
IOL