Struggle icon and poet, Don Mattera, was laid to rest on Monday night at the Heroes Acre in Westpark Cemetery.
Don Mattera was born on 30 November 1935 and died on 18 July 2022 at the age of 87. He died at his home in Protea North, Soweto.
Family spokesperson, Joseph Cotty, said Mattera was buried in accordance with Islamic rites.
Mattera’s sister Gaylina Mattera said growing up around the award-winning poet, author and journalist was magical.
“He is the one who raised me and played a father’s role in my life. He uplifted a lot of journalists and made an impact on many people’s lives. And there will never be a leader like him.”
Poet Ntsiki Mazwai said, “I am sad, but I have to understand death is part of life. He has passed the baton to us younger poets. Now I must use my voice of conscience to uplift the youth.”
Minister of Sports, Art and Culture, Nathi Mthethwa said Don has always used his words as a sword.
