The Sunday News
JOHANNESBURG — Television personality Simba Mhere was laid to rest in Johannesburg yesterday.
Hundreds of people gathered at the Rhema Bible Church to bid farewell to the man they knew as a “gentle giant”.
The Top Billing presenter was killed in a car crash last weekend on William Nicol Drive.
Close friend Kady-Shay O’Bryan also died in the accident and police are now investigating a case of negligence against the driver of the car that collided into Mhere’s vehicle.
Very emotional tributes were delivered by family and friends who said yesterday should be a celebration of Simba’s life.
As per Simba’s long standing request to friends lyrics from rap artiste, Kanye West’s So Amazing song were recited.
Friends say Mhere wanted the song to be played at his funeral in memory of what he said was an amazing life.
Top Billing executive producer Basetsana Kumalo said, “My nickname for Simba was my Nono. As big as he was. He was my boy and I loved him dearly.
“We will miss his raucous laughter and big bear hugs, but his work here is done.”
Jonathan Boyton Lee struggled to hold back his tears as he spoke about his friend and colleague Simba Mhere.
He and Mhere were planning to start a business together this year.
Some of Mhere’s other colleagues say they’re still shocked by his sudden passing.
Mhere was the youngest presenter at Top Billing, who stood out in a crowd of auditions in 2010.
