RENOWNED gospel artist Lundi Tyamara was described as strong-willed, a people's person and full of life as he was laid to rest at Zwelethemba in Worcester yesterday.
Earlier his friends, family, fellow gospel artists and politicians had gathered at the Zwelethemba Stadium.
Tyamara died 11 days ago at the Edenvale Hospital in Gauteng where he had been treated for abdominal TB and pancreatic cancer.
He was first admitted to hospital in September, 2016.
Gospel artists in attendance included Rebecca Malope, Veliswa Skeyi, Deborah Fraser and the Jaziel Brothers. Renowned praise singer Zolani delivered a tribute to Tyamara.
Mourners and fans sang along and danced when some of the gospel artists performed on stage at the funeral - which also doubled-up as a free concert.
Malope composed a song specially dedicated to the gospel artist.
Tyamara, 38, was described as one of the best artists in his genre who had dreams of uplifting his family and community at large and would give with an open heart without wanting anything in return.
Tyamara’s cousin Nokuzola Tyamara said Lundi had taught the family love and would be remembered for his passion to succeed.
“He was never afraid to apologise when he wronged you. He was the backbone of the family. It is difficult to let it go.”
His friend Thobeka Sogwagwa, who had been beside Tyamara, during his hospital stay, told the mourners about the circumstances that led to his sudden death.
She said she had visited Tyamara in hospital almost every day and would spend hours encouraging him to be stronger.
“We shared moments, so many things with Lundi. He never wanted to see me out of his sight. Me and Lundi had a son and mother relationship.
"Lundi started being sick in September. He was in pain. The doctor assumed that he had too much acid in his body,” said Sogwagwa.
During November his condition deteriorated and he could not talk and was not eating, according to Sogwagwa.
Tyamara’s childhood friend Thulani Mangona said it was emotional and unbelievable that his friend was gone.
“Lundi chose to be happy. He never compromised his dream and he knew what he wanted in life. He was not boring and was sharing. We will remember him by his sense of humour,” Mangona told the mourners.
Tyamara’s manager, Anele Hlazo, described him as a shy person but very energetic when performing on stage.
“People don't know that side of him (of being shy),” said Hlazo.
Arts and Culture Minister Nathi Mthethwa said Tyamara had touched various people in different ways.