Following the passing of the esteemed praise poet Dr. Bishop Jessica Mbangeni on Saturday, August 31, her family has announced details for her memorial service. The service is scheduled to take place at 2 p.m. on Friday, September 6, at The Market Theatre in Johannesburg, where family, friends, and colleagues will gather to honour her life and contributions to the creative and cultural industries.
Dr. Mbangeni, celebrated for her powerful performances at prestigious events like the Nelson Mandela 46664 concert and former President Thabo Mbeki’s inauguration, left an indelible mark on South Africa’s cultural landscape. The memorial will reflect her deep commitment to her heritage, with attendees asked to wear traditional regalia as a tribute to her love for culture.
“She was more than just a world-celebrated praise singer and a musical maestro; she was a cultural cornerstone, a beacon of hope, and an unstoppable force for artistic expression and advocacy,” the Mbangeni family shared. “Her artistic brilliance transcended genres, and her powerful voice resonated with the spirit of the nation, celebrating the richness of our heritage while addressing contemporary social issues with grace and eloquence. She was a proud ambassador of her culture and our nation, and we feel it is fitting to honour her in a way that reflects her life’s work and passion.”
Known for her vibrant traditional attire and a voice that resonated with many, Mbangeni’s legacy of celebrating South Africa’s heritage with grace and pride will be remembered and cherished. In addition to the Johannesburg memorial, she will also be honoured in Jamaica on September 8, recognising her contributions to the global community.
