The late Connie Chiume. File image
After the shocking news of the death of legendary actress, Connie Chiume, on Tuesday, August 6, the dates for her funeral and memorial service have been announced.
Chiume’s memorial service will be on Tuesday, August 13, at noon and her funeral service on Thursday, August 15, from 8am. Both services will be at Oasis of Life Family Church in Daveyton, Gauteng.
The “Gomora” and “Black Panther” actor died at the age of 72 at Garden City Hospital. Her cause of death has not been disclosed.
“The Chiume family regrets to inform you of the passing of the international(ly) acclaimed award-winning actress Connie Chiume,” read a statement on Chiume’s social media.
In a follow-up statement, the family of the actress also expressed their heartfelt gratitude for the public’s support.
“The Chiume family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude for all the messages of support and condolences during this difficult time, as they cope with the loss of their mother, Connie. Her children would like to express their deep appreciation to the doctors and nursing staff who provided exceptional care during her stay.”
Chiume was best known for her starring role as Mamokete “Kete” Khuse, an upstanding, moral woman and maternal figure in the fictional community on e.tv soapie “Rhythm City”.
She played the role between 2007 and 2016. She also appeared in shows like “Zone 14”, “Soul City”, “Mazinyo Dot Q” and “Gomora”.
Chiume was celebrated for her appearances in the Marvel film, “Black Panther”, and Beyoncé’s “Black is King”.
In addition to earning multiple South African film and television awards throughout her career, the South African Sport, Arts and Culture Department presented Chiume with the Living Legend Award at the inaugural Cultural and Creative Industry Awards in March.
“Her performances brought joy, inspiration and a sense of pride to countless South Africans. She was more than an actress; she was a beacon of strength, resilience and grace,” Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture of South Africa Gayton McKenzie said in a statement after her death.
The government paid tribute by writing on X: “Our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of multi-award winning and legendary actress Connie Chiume. Her outstanding work will always be remembered. #RIPConnieChiume.”