South Africa mourns the loss of acclaimed poet Dr Bishop Jessica Mbangeni, who passed away at Helen Joseph Hospital in Johannesburg after a brief illness.
"It was just a short illness," confirmed Zilungele Mbangeni, a family member, to TshisaLIVE. "Three weeks ago she was in Senegal, then earlier this week she was sick and got medical attention. She was fine and then got sick again. We took her to Helen Joseph and early this morning they called us to let us know she has passed away."
Dr Mbangeni, a contemporary voice rooted in the ancient oral traditions of her Nqamakwe, Eastern Cape upbringing, leaves behind a legacy of powerful verse and cultural impact.
"It is with deep sorrow and profound sadness that we, the family of Dr Bishop Jessica Mbangeni, announce her passing," the family stated. "Our beloved mother, sister and people's praised poet, Bishop Jessica Mbangeni, has left us to join the ancestors."
The family described Dr Mbangeni as "a beacon of light, a voice of wisdom, and a source of inspiration to many." They highlighted her immeasurable contributions as a praise poet, spiritual leader, and cultural ambassador, emphasizing that her legacy will continue to inspire.
"During this difficult time, we kindly ask for privacy as we mourn her passing," the family requested. "We are deeply appreciative of the love and support from friends and fans, and the community, but we request that you give us the space to grieve as a family."
Dr Mbangeni's passing is a significant loss for the South African literary and cultural landscape. Her powerful voice and unwavering commitment to her heritage will be deeply missed.
"It was just a short illness," confirmed Zilungele Mbangeni, a family member, to TshisaLIVE. "Three weeks ago she was in Senegal, then earlier this week she was sick and got medical attention. She was fine and then got sick again. We took her to Helen Joseph and early this morning they called us to let us know she has passed away."
Dr Mbangeni, a contemporary voice rooted in the ancient oral traditions of her Nqamakwe, Eastern Cape upbringing, leaves behind a legacy of powerful verse and cultural impact.
"It is with deep sorrow and profound sadness that we, the family of Dr Bishop Jessica Mbangeni, announce her passing," the family stated. "Our beloved mother, sister and people's praised poet, Bishop Jessica Mbangeni, has left us to join the ancestors."
The family described Dr Mbangeni as "a beacon of light, a voice of wisdom, and a source of inspiration to many." They highlighted her immeasurable contributions as a praise poet, spiritual leader, and cultural ambassador, emphasizing that her legacy will continue to inspire.
"During this difficult time, we kindly ask for privacy as we mourn her passing," the family requested. "We are deeply appreciative of the love and support from friends and fans, and the community, but we request that you give us the space to grieve as a family."
Dr Mbangeni's passing is a significant loss for the South African literary and cultural landscape. Her powerful voice and unwavering commitment to her heritage will be deeply missed.
