At the special official funeral in KwaMbonambi, KwaZulu-Natal, Philisiwe Mthethwa, the widow of the late Ambassador to France, Nathi Mthethwa, was visibly overcome with emotion as relatives recited her farewell message to the man she called the love of her life. The somber atmosphere was a stark reminder of the tragic circumstances surrounding Nathi’s untimely death after falling from the 22nd floor of a hotel in Paris.
Family and friends came together to pay tribute to Nathi, a man remembered not only for his diplomatic achievements but also for his nurturing spirit and unwavering courage. Philisiwe, married to Nathi for 12 cherished years, chose to have a relative read her moving tribute aloud. In her heartfelt message, she expressed, “I cannot ask God why for love this great can never be explained nor measured by time.” She continued with a declaration of his everlasting importance, stating, “You are my sunshine, my eternal flame, and though death has hidden you from my eyes, nothing can quench the fire you’ve lit in my soul.”
The service resonated with tributes describing Nathi as a devoted family man, whose laughter filled their home and who provided a sense of calm amidst life’s challenges. His son, Mkhululi, shared the invaluable lessons his father imparted, teaching him and his siblings resilience and humility. “You have been a shining example to your children, the grandchildren, the community, our nation and the world at large,” Mkhululi proclaimed as he paid his respects to his father, honouring him with the words, “Hamba Kahle, Nkonyane! Mthethwa! Mthethwa! Mthethwa! Mthethwa!”
Despite the overwhelming grief, Mkhululi noted that his sisters were still too distraught to speak publicly about their loss, a reflection of the deep emotional pain shared by the family. As he returned to his seat, he paused to embrace his mother, a silent act of solidarity amidst the sorrow.