Former Metro FM presenter Pearl Shongwe was found dead at her home in Johannesburg on 8 November. The former Daily Thetha host’s memorial service was held at M1 Studio at the SABC’s head office in Auckland Park, Johannesburg on Wednesday 16 November.

 

 

 

 

 

Her cousin Nomkhosi Shongwe, sister Nonhlanhla Shongwe and aunt Zinhle Nene shared touching tributes to her.

“If someone told me I would be standing here speaking about Pearl in the past tense I would’ve told them it was all lies. I need you to understand there was a lot I would’ve said and written about her,” said Nomkhosi.

“She was like a twin. I mothered her from the day she was born, and I would like to believe even on her last day on earth she knew that ‘uMama’, as she used to call me, has got my back. So I’ve written a little poem that I would like to recite, and the reason I chose to write a little poem was because Pearl encouraged me a lot. She used to say mama you’ve got such a great skill of writing, you are a great writer, it’s just a shame that you don’t believe so. So I would like to pay tribute to her in this little tribute that I’ve written for her,” said Nonhlanhla.

“She was and will always be our pride no matter how hard or painful life gets. Her respect, her smile, love and care was what matters to us,” said Nene.

Pearl
SABC 1 paid tribute to late presenter Pearl Shongwe. Images via Instagram @pearlshongwe.WHAT HAPPENED TO PEARL?
Sunday World reported that the late presenter was found dead at her home in Polofields, north of Joburg on Tuesday 8 November. A source told the publication that Shongwe was found dead by neighbours who alerted the police.

“The police are on the scene trying to establish the cause of her death,” said the source.

The late presenter’s family also released a statement confirming that she passed away in her sleep. The family spokesperson Khehla Tshabalala said it is with great sadness that the Shongwe family announces the untimely passing of Pearl.

“Our daughter was a celebrated radio broadcaster and TV presenter. Her presence will forever live on in our hearts,” he said.