DJ, publicist and fashion designer Maria McCloy, 50, has died at a Johannesburg hospital following heart failure.
Image: X.
Tributes are pouring in for well-known media personality Maria McCloy.
The DJ, publicist and fashion designer passed away yesterday, May 12, at Milpark Hospital in Johannesburg following heart failure.
The family confirmed her death in a statement today, May 13.
"Maria - a vibrant and creative soul who embraced life wholeheartedly as a DJ, publicist and fashion designer - was loved by her family, friends, colleagues and community at large. Her kindness, warmth, generosity and unwavering love for those around her touched many lives and will never be forgotten," read the statement.
It continued: "She had a special way of bringing people together and her presence brought comfort, laughter and love to all who knew her. She leaves behind her mother and two beloved sisters, Thandiwe and Natasha, along with countless family members and friends who are devastated by this loss."
The family has requested privacy as they mourn her passing and thanked the public for the messages of support and condolences received.
Since the news broke, tributes have poured in from Mzansi celebrities, friends and colleagues, who worked with McCloy over the years.
Kwaito sensation, TKZee wrote on X: "You wrote the very first article published about us. Thank you for being a day 1 believer and a foundation stone that shaped the 'New South Africa’s' youth culture. Rest now, Maria McCloy. Your race is run. Thank you for your time, and we’ll see you out there."
Poet and activist Ntsiki Mazwai shared: "A mighty tree has fallen ... Yesterday started so beautifully and ended so tragically. My big sister ... you did so much for the culture. Thank you."
Chrispin Phiri, spokesperson for DIRCO, said: "Our very own Maria Podesta. A cultural icon in many respects. Definitely gone too soon. Rest In Peace, Maria McCloy."
Journalist Clement Manyathela commented: "Oh, Maria. Rest in Power. What an industry GIANT! A cultural pioneer!"
@Buhlebonga commented: "Who is going to champion the culture now? I'm so gutted, Maria. You left us at your prime! You were part of many dope moments in the culture.
"You lived a full life. Rest In Peace to one of the greats! Maria McCloy will be a name remembered for generations!"
Details regarding McCloy's memorial and funeral service will be communicated in due course.