Actress Rosemary Zimu has shared the heartbreaking news of the passing of her beloved mother, paying tribute to the woman she describes as her greatest source of love, strength and prayer.
The award-winning actress poured out her grief in an emotional message that has touched fans and fellow celebrities across the country.
“I don’t know how to do this. I honestly don’t know how to live in a world where my mom isn’t just a phone call away. I don’t know how to make sense of this kind of pain. Bathong I’m heartbroken. I’m angry. I’m confused. Some moments I feel numb, and others I can’t stop crying,” Rosemary wrote.
While acknowledging her faith, the actress admitted that believing her mother is in a better place has not made the pain of losing her any easier.
“People say she’s in a better place, and with all my heart, I believe she is. Mara believing that doesn’t make me miss her any less.”
She reflected on the suffering her mother endured before her passing, finding comfort in the thought that she is finally free from pain.
“I also catch myself thinking about heaven. Where there’s no more pain medication, blood tests, doctors’ appointments, hospital rooms, needles and no more struggling to breathe. Just peace and the fullness of God’s presence. And somehow, in the middle of all this heartbreak, that thought gives me hope.”
Addressing her mother directly, Rosemary added: “I hope you’re smiling, Nkele. I hope you’re resting and that you’ve heard the words, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant.’
“Thank you for loving us the way you did. Thank you for every laugh, every hug, every prayer, every sacrifice. You were love itself, and the world is much emptier without you in it.
“I’ll spend the rest of my life missing you, but I’ll also spend it celebrating the gift that you were.
The heartfelt tribute was met with an outpouring of condolences from fans, colleagues and fellow entertainers, many offering messages of comfort and prayer as the actress navigates one of the most difficult moments of her life.
Rosemary Zimu has become one of South Africa’s most recognisable television stars over the past decade. She first gained widespread attention through appearances in popular local productions before cementing her place in the industry with standout performances in hit drama series.
She is best known for her role as Warona in The Queen, where she showcased her versatility as an actress. Rosemary later joined Savage Beauty, Netflix’s South African drama series, portraying the complex and ambitious Nandi, a performance that earned praise from audiences both locally and internationally.
Her career has also included roles in productions such as Isidingo, The Herd and Shadow, steadily building a reputation as one of the country’s most talented young actresses. Beyond acting, she has become a respected media personality and brand ambassador, admired for her authenticity and openness about life’s challenges.
