SA’s iconic actress: Connie Chiume remembered in memorial service

A fitting memorial service for a magnificent icon was held at Oasis of Life Family Church in Daveyton on August 13 in honour of well-known actress, Connie Chiume.

Her entertainment industry friends, family, government dignitaries and fans packed the church which was decorated with beautiful flowers and candles.

Melodic tunes from Chiume’s library compilation were played at the venue during the memorial which left mourners singing and dancing in celebration of her life.

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Actors and actresses who worked with her took turns to pay tribute to Chiume as they marvelled at the fact that through her death, she was able to bring everyone in the entertainment industry together in one room.

Rose Mankazana, who was Chiume’s neighbour when she lived in Farramere Gardens took to the podium with seven other women who lived in the area with Chiume.

Mankazana said she knew Chiume in 2001 while she was still living with her mom, MaNdlovu.

“Connie was not a celebrity to us but a big sister. She was an aunt and a grandmother to our children who grew up in front of her.

“She was humble, loving, warm and very caring. She treated us equally as neighbours and she never undermined us.

“She would go with us to bereavements and when she was not around she would send condolences to the affected family. She never spoke about her career while sitting with us,” said Mankazana.

Desiree Markgraaff, who produced Yizo Yizo said driving into Daveyton brought back a flood of memories.

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“This was where, as a young producer, I first watched the magic of Ma Connie on screen who played a single mother who was grappling with raising teenage children.

“Connie lived her truth through her craft. While she enjoyed the fame of being a celebrity, she never became a slave through it.

“Her truth was in acting and she had an incredible skill to tap into our emotions and to make us think or feel,” said Markgraaff.

Another industry colleague, Owen Sejake said when he met Chiume in the 70s, she used to say strange things sometimes.

He described her as a dynamic woman, an artist and teacher who could dance, sing and act.

Renowned actor, director and playwright John Kani said she called him ‘Bhut’wami’ (my brother) which made him feel special.

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Chiume died on August 6 at Garden City Hospital in Johannesburg after a period of illness.

She previously lived in Farrarmere with her family before moving to Kempton Park.

The internationally acclaimed actress has featured in notable films and television shows such as Black Panther, Yizo Yizo 2, Gomora, Rhythm City, Black Is King, Blessers and Zone 14.

Her funeral will be held on August 15 at Oasis of Life Family Church.