THE creative industry is mourning the death of Dr Graeme Douglas Gilfillan (62).
He died on Sunday, 21 May at his home in Yeoville, Joburg.
Family spokesman and his brother, Berin Gilfillan told Daily Sun they suspect a heart attack.
"He was found lying next to his bed with his phone next to him. We suspect a heart attack and we are waiting for an autopsy report to confirm our suspicions. Otherwise, we don’t suspect any foul play," said Berin.
He described Graeme as "a lawyer who fought for artists. He was the voice of reason and he fought for justice and fairness in the industry. He became a father to many South African artists."
He said the funeral service will be on Saturday, 27 May at the Joburg Country Club. He said Graeme had enemies, but he had more friends.
"He was loved by many people. His work spoke for itself," said Berin.
His niece, Jessica Gilfilan said: "Right now our family is grieving his loss heavily. In his Will he said that his tombstone should read, 'Pumped Up, Thundering, and Mint Condition... No Issues'. He would be the first to remind me he is with ancestors now, with whom he has listened to and worked for throughout his career."
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Tlou "Dj Cleo" Monyepao, who worked with Graeme, said: "I was alerted yesterday morning that there was a problem. His driver went to his house but there was no response. He peeped through the window and saw him lying down. By the time I arrived at his house, he was already declared dead."
DJ Cleo said he worked with him throughout his music career.
"DJ Fresh introduced me to him and that was 23 years ago. Graeme became a father to me. He protected my music interests. He took care of my music career and handled all my contracts. He specialised in intellectual property and he was also my legal advisor. We had our ups and down, but we always found each other," said DJ Cleo.
Some of the people who worked with Graeme include Ringo Madlingozi, Miriam Makeba, Brenda Fassie, Boom Shaka, Oskido and Cassper Nyovest.
