Jazz maestro's son: I feel empty and broken

ACTOR and jazz musician Thapelo Joseph Mofokeng was laid to rest.

The 74-year-old was buried at West Park Cemetery in Joburg on Saturday, 27 January.

Family and fellow artists spoke highly of Thapelo and described him as a loving and talented person.

Thapelo's son, Morena Mofokeng, told Daily Sun that he was deeply saddened by his father's death.

"I feel empty because a part of me misses him. I am so broken as we speak. He was a great person. My dad was always there for me," he said.

Patrick Pududu, Thapelo's father-in-law, said: "It's a sad loss, especially his voice. He was a man for many occasions, be it funerals, parties and events.

Family of the late jazz musician Thapelo Mofokeng during his funeral service at the Communal Hall in Orlando East, Soweto on Saturday.

Legendary actress Connie Chiume (middle) at the funeral service of Thapelo Mofokeng.

Legendary singer and actress Abigail Kubeka at the funeral of the late jazz musician, Thapelo Mofokeng.

"His voice was great and he was gifted. He was good at getting his message across with his voice."

Legendary singer and actress Abigail Kubeka said Thapelo was a true gentleman who always went the extra mile for others.

She said she was surprised when some of his industry colleagues were not there for him.

"It surprises me that most of his colleagues in the entertainment industry are not here to support the family during this difficult time. He was a true warrior and always stood up for others, but what can you say," Abigail said.

Florence Zandamela, a neighbour, said Thapelo was a great neighbour. He always invited them over when he organised events to celebrate with them.

"I have really lost a good friend and neighbour. He was such a perfect and peaceful person," she said.

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Legendary singer Sipho "Hotstix" Mabuse said that he had said a lot this week, but for today he was short of words.

"I've said a lot about him and our journey. All I can say is that he was a great person," he said.

Olafeni Katane told Daily Sun that she was very saddened when she learnt of her grandfather's death.

The coffin of Thapelo Mofokeng.

Jazz singer Sipho Hotstix Mabuse paying tribute to his late friend, Thapelo Joseph Mofokeng.

Yvonne Chaka Chaka at Thapelo Joseph Mofokeng's funeral.

Family and music friends of the late jazz musician Thapelo Mofokeng.

"I am numb as I speak. He was a very loud and cheerful person. I will always remember his funny moments. He was so peaceful and may his soul rest in peace," she said.

The musician is survived by four children - Morena, Mpumi, Thembi, Wandile - and grandchildren.

Although the funeral service went well, some friends and family members were not happy that he was not buried at the Heroes Acre for his contribution to the entertainment industry.

Mzansi stars honouring the late jazz musician, Thapelo Joseph Mofokeng. Photo by Phuti Mathobela.

The late singer Thapelo Joseph Mofokeng's son Morena Mofokeng and his cousin, Olafeni Katane, at West Park Cemetery in Joburg.

Mourners at the West Park Cemetery, Joburg. Photo by Phuti Mathobela.

Actress Thembi Nyandeni at West Park Cemetery, Joburg.

Jazz legend Sipho Mabuse at his friend Thapelo Joseph Mofokeng's funeral.

Family of the late jazz musician Thapelo Mofokeng at West Park Cemetery, Joburg.