Thabiso Sikwane, DJ Fresh
- Radio and TV personality Thabiso Enid Sikwane died on 30 August 2024 after a sudden illness.
- Sikwane’s memorial service was held at 3C Ministries in Irene, Centurion.
- The seasoned broadcaster is survived by her ex-husband, four children, her mom and three siblings.
Radio and television personality Thabiso Enid Sikwane was remembered for her humility, service, and love for people from all walks of life.
On Friday, the 3C Ministries in Irene, Centurion, was filled with mourners donning bright African colours who came to bid the seasoned broadcaster farewell.
The 50-year-old died in the early hours in hospital after suffering from a headache.
Her ex-husband, DJ Fresh, visibly emotional, stood in front of mourners facing Thabiso’s white coffin and spoke his heart out. He said Thabiso was always right. She was intentional about what she wanted to do, and she did it. He said she left nothing unsaid.
“The one thing I’m going to miss the most about you is your volatile tongue, which was linked to your ever-hard-working mind. Whenever I was in public with you, I was forever worried about what you would say to whom because you didn’t agree with them. She was always quick to say when something was wrong. He said they decided to work together on the What A Week podcast because they wanted to talk about their journey and how they ended up where they did (divorced).
“We wanted to talk about all of that because we both learnt a lot from our union because this woman personified love; she forgave me more times than I deserved; I look back at the times she forgave me for whatever I have done or not done; she would relentlessly forgive me.
He said Thabiso was the reason they had a peaceful separation. She suggested family therapy and DJ Fresh said that’s why their families don’t believe they separated. He said he owed her a public apology for any heartache, heartbreak and embarrassment he caused her.
“I’m sorry, my friend, I’m sorry, Ma T, until we meet again,” he said.
Their children paid a moving tribute to their mom. Reneilwe, Wandida, Thato Jnr, and Lefika each took turns speaking from their hearts.
“Mama was a woman of love; I saw my mom go through the lowest of moments in life with her marriage, with work, and her faith in God and at the end of the day, she prevailed, waking up the next day happier than she was before,” said Thato Jnr.
Thato Jnr added:
I’m not upset that she is gone; I’m happy that she reached her ultimate goal in life, which is for God to be happy with what she did in her life so that she could go home.
Her parents-in-law, Mr and Mrs Sikwane (DJ Fresh’s parents), said their son did not marry an ordinary woman. Mr Sikwane said she was a resource in the family whose intellectual ability was above normal.
“We sat down and assessed what type of woman our son could marry. The first day I heard her on the radio, I knew she was not an ordinary wife. She has contributed immensely to my knowledge in terms of mind power. I’m an author as well, through Thabiso. We loved her beyond limits,” said Mr Sikwane, Sr.
Kagiso, Lebakang, and Gontse Matladi, Thabiso’s siblings, paid a moving tribute to their sister, each sharing what they adored about Thabiso.
“It’s been very difficult for me for the past week, but I know this is what she would’ve wanted, and I know she’s smiling down on me.”, Kagiso said.
She thanked DJ Fresh for the love and support he has given her and her children.
She said, “The world feels a little emptier without your laughter, kindness, and beautiful spirit. I will always cherish the memories we shared. The moments of joy and lessons you’ve taught me, and the love we had for each other. You were a beacon of my life, and though you are no longer with us, I know your light will continue to shine in my heart.”
READ | OBITUARY: Thabiso Sikwane remembered as brave and loving with a healing voice
Gontse Matladi said she and her sister had a special bond, and the age gap did not prohibit them from getting closer, though they did not live in the same house.
“To the world, she is a superstar and a celebrity, but to us, she is just a sister. I will miss her making my favourite food and bringing me things; she was my stylist. She was such a joker and a lovable person. I celebrate her, and we will always remember her. I hope that we keep her legacy going,” she said.
The broadcaster’s mom said she felt blessed because she did not know how her child was loved. She also thanked the Sikwane family for the unity they displayed even when their children announced their divorce in 2022.
She said, “She nourished so many lives; we thank God for giving us an apple with multiple vitamins.”
