Beloved gospel star and pastor Neyi Zimu laid to rest in Alberton

The gospel star’s final resting place will be at Kromvlei Cemetery in Alberton, east of Johannesburg. 

The Lamb of God singer was also honoured at a memorial service over the weekend at the Change Bible Church, in Katlehong, near Johannesburg. The moving service was also attended by gospel greats, such as Rebecca Malope, Ayanda Ntanzi and Pastor Benjamin Dube.

Zimu’s funeral service will take place on Wednesday 11 December 2019 at the House of Treasures Ministries in Rispark, Johannesburg, with the burial at Kromvlei Cemetery, in Alberton. 

Zimu died last week Wednesday at the Busamed Hospital after a two-year battle with skin cancer. His wife, Nelisiwe, said he had undergone treatment, including chemotherapy. 

She had previously spoken about her husband’s resilience, saying he had fought until the end and continued singing and delivering sermons at his church, All Nations Revival Ministries, in Midrand which he founded 13 years ago.  

Fighting to the bitter end

In a video clip shared on YouTube, Zimu shared an uplifting message: 

“It doesn’t matter what happens in your life, God’s word must prevail. Remember many are the plans in a man’s heart, but it is God’s purpose that prevails. We are looking for God’s purpose, we are looking for God’s move to pave the way for us, so don’t give up. Don’t think you are ever by yourself.”

https://youtu.be/qyZMHf7hOQ8

Speaking at his memorial service, close friend pastor Benjamin Dube said Zimu had a passion for God and his ministry, always delivering on his promises.

He added that Zimu was regarded as a legend and had left a longstanding legacy which would positively influence generations to come. 

Tributes from EFF, celebrities

Tributes had been pouring in for Zimu with many celebrities sharing how his music had impacted them. TV presenter and MC Hulisani Ravele said she had his music on repeat as it helped her heal. 

“I’ve never cried so much over the loss of someone I didn’t know on a personal level. On the darkest days, he was on repeat, it was as if he himself sat in that darkness with me and ministered to me that there would be better days, and they came,” she wrote.

EFF party spokesperson Mbuyiseni Ndlozi also shared how he was touched by Zimu’s passing. He took to Twitter to react to the news. 

“The Vaal has lost a giant, SA has lost a musical titan, and gospel has lost a shepherd. But heaven has gained a worship and choir leader. His will rest in power,” he wrote. 

Zimu is survived by his wife and three children.