Honoring Johanna Mazibuko: A Journey Through Three Centuries

It’s not every day that we hear about someone who lived through three centuries, but Johanna Mazibuko, who sadly passed away on March 3, 2023, at the age of 128, was one such extraordinary individual. As South Africa’s oldest recorded woman, she became a living testament to resilience, familial love, and the rich history of her country.

Born on May 11, 1894, Mazibuko’s life was a saga of change and endurance. From witnessing the tumultuous events of the 20th century to navigating the complexities of the 21st, she experienced it all—transformations in society, culture, and technology. Imagine the stories she could tell!

Her family shared the heart-wrenching news of her passing, which came just two months shy of her 129th birthday. Thandiwe Wesinyana, affectionately known as MmaLerato and also her caregiver and daughter-in-law, recounted the moments surrounding Mazibuko’s last words. As MmaLerato returned home amidst a heavy downpour, she had no idea that tragedy was about to strike. Upon entering her home, she was met with the sorrows of family—“Ouma is gone,” her sister Elisa said, marking a moment that would resonate with the family forever.

MmaLerato recalled the wisdom Mazibuko imparted during their last moments together. In a touching moment filled with laughter amid grief, she shared how her mother-in-law advised her to go to church, take care of her family, and even teased about dietary preferences, suggesting red meat over chicken intestines, calling it a light-hearted jab at masculinity. These bits of advice are gems that her family will treasure, echoes of a bygone era that remind them of the importance of family and faith.

Mazibuko’s legacy is profound. She leaves behind not just two surviving children, but also the memory of five others who have passed, alongside 50 grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren. This large family tree is a testament to a life devoted to nurturing and sustaining love across generations. They remember her as a pillar of strength—the glue that held them together through thick and thin.

In a world that is constantly changing, the values of family, community, and tradition remain timeless, and Mazibuko embodied this beautifully. As her family mourns her passing, they also celebrate a rich legacy of wisdom, strength, and love—a legacy that will undoubtedly live on in their hearts and stories for many years to come.

As we remember Johanna Mazibuko, let’s take a moment to reflect on the importance of our elders and the invaluable lessons they share. After all, we’ve all lost a mother or a maternal figure at some point—those who guided us, shaped our values, and showed us the essence of resilience. In honoring their memories, we keep their wisdom alive in our hearts and lives.