Memorial service to honour Mayosi
The Eastern Cape government will celebrate acclaimed cardiology professor Bongani Mayosi’s life at a memorial service in East London on Thursday.
Mayosi, 51, committed suicide last week because he had been depressed, his family said at the time.
His memorial service will be at the Calvary Christian Church (formerly Quigney Baptist Church) from 1pm. Provincial government spokesperson Sonwabo Mbananga on Wednesday said it was with profound sadness that premier Phumulo Masualle learnt of Mayosi’s suicide.
Mayosi was an Mthatha-born cardiologist who carved his name in history books as a brilliant academic.
In 2009, then president Jacob Zuma bestowed the country’s highest honour, The Order of Mapungubwe, on Mayosi for his contribution to the field of medicine.
Last year, he was elected to the US National Academy of Medicine, and was the only African representative out of 10 international members elected.
“The fact that he was a recipient of The Order of Mapungubwe is a demonstration that he was exceptional in his field. He worked towards transforming the medical community and we are aware of the pull he had among young people,” Mbananga said.
He said because Mayosi would be buried in the Western Cape, it was only fitting that the province host a memorial service to honour him.
Provincial health superintendent-general Dr Thobile Mbengashe said Mayosi was much loved by all who encountered him.
“He was one of the most prolific academic scholars in the country. He was concerned about the poor and the disadvantaged,” Mbengashe said.
Columnist Ray Hartle, who received a heart transplant two years ago, described Mayosi as a great mind.