Legendary South African actor and Birch Acres resident Sello Motloung was laid to rest at Westpark Cemetery, on September 21.
Motloung collapsed on September 15 at his home and rushed to the hospital, where he later died.
On September 21, family, friends and colleagues gathered at his home to celebrate his life, legacy and contributions to the television and film industries.
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Motloung featured in several popular television series, including Ring of Lies, The Queen, Rockville, Isidingo, Yho Christmas and The Wife.
He also appeared in films including Invictus as Mandela’s doctor, An Act of Defiance as Nelson Mandela and Happiness is a Four-Letter Word.
He was an M-Net All Africa Film Awards nominee for best-supporting actor for Chikin Biznis.
During the service, his sons, neighbours and even the MEC’s representatives and many more paid heart-warming tribute to Motloung.
“On September 14, my parents came home from a night vigil at church. My mom fell asleep, and I stayed awake with my pops.
“While I was still awake, I hugged him and told him I loved him. He said he loved me too, and no matter what we had been through and all the achievements that came my way, he would always be proud of me.
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“What hurts me is that I never thought those would be his last words to me,” said Reatile Motloung.
Reatile remembers his dad as a humble person.
“When we are outside, he never wanted to be seen as a celebrity. He always wanted to be seen as someone who knows how to put a beautiful smile on everyone’s faces.”
“Anything he said would always make you feel better. If you ever had a problem and you go to him, he always had a solution,” said Reatile.
Vuyo Motloung said he never thought this day would come so soon.
“This man was one of the most humble guys I have met. He was sweet, kind and funny. No person would support you like Sello,” said Vuyo.
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Khothatso Motloung said his father was the greatest human he had ever known.
“The biggest thing I will miss about my father is his presence in my life. Losing him reminded me how much of a boy I am, who still needs his father to hold his hand,” he said.
“My father was present for many things in my life, like my first day of school, concerts, and every flight I took to school in the Western Cape.
“I now ask myself how I will move forward from now on when I have to buy my first car and house and when I have my first child.”
Family spokesperson William Moraka remembered Motloung as a humble and family-orientated man.
“He loved his wife and three children dearly. As much as he was a public figure in terms of career, he preferred a private life,” said Moraka.
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He said Motloung had a great sense of humour and had ways of making everyone comfortable around him.
“What a jolly person we have lost.”
Motloung is survived by his older brother Thabo, his beloved wife Nthabiseng, and their three sons, Khothatso, Vuyo, and Reatile, who were his greatest joy.
His legacy also lives on through his nephew, nieces, and grandchild, who will carry forward his values of kindness, creativity, and resilience.
Motloung’s life was a powerful reminder that the arts can break down barriers, unite people, and inspire future generations.
“His absence will be felt, but the memories of the lives he touched and the works he created will ensure his legacy endures.”
