Mzansi pays tribute to gospel legend Deborah Fraser
Tributes have been pouring in for veteran gospel singer Deborah Fraser, who died yesterday afternoon.
She was 56.
The star’s family confirmed the news in a statement on social media, saying the singer had died in the presence of loved ones after suffering a short illness.
“It is with deep sadness to inform you of the passing of our beloved mother, sister, aunt, friend and gospel musician Dr Deborah Fraser following a short illness.
“She passed today after midday, in the presence of her family and friends.”
Luanda Ramatswi, a gospel singer who had been mentored by Fraser, said she was like a mother to him and was always a phone call away.
He said Fraser had been battling to walk recently and her feet were ailing her.
“She could walk, but not for long because she stayed in hospital for two months in January and February so the body was still not well because she is an elder.
“She would walk for a while and then get tired — that’s why she was performing in a wheelchair, because she couldn’t stand for that long, because her body was not well at all.
“Mme Deborah loved jokes, wherever she was she was always happy ... she was a very good and a very straightforward person.
“If she didn’t like it she would say it straight away,” he said.
Social media has been flooded with fond memories of Fraser’s music and the effect it has had on people’s lives.
The gospel singer died just hours after Gomora actor Siyabonga Zubane was laid to rest.
Fraser released multiple albums and won the SABC Crown Gospel Music award in the Best Female Artist category.
She also won Sama, Metro and Kora awards for best gospel artist.