The first memorial service of Jabulani ‘HHP’ Tsambo was scheduled to hold at Newtown Music Factory (former Bassline) by 12 p.m. but friends and mourners were already there before the memorial began proper, a testament to HHP’s appeal as a musician and as a person.

HHP had been found dead at home. The cause was not made public by the family. But the public suspects suicide, HHP having spoken about suffering from depression and even attempting suicide three times in the past.

HHP’s memorial service drew friends and family and fellow artistes from far and wide. At the service it became apparent that HHP had been close to many people, was selfless, and touched a lot of lives.

Although HHP’s family has literally disowned Lerato Sengadi as HHP’s wife, saying in a statement released by the family’s spokesperson Nkululeko Ncana that she was HHP’s ex-fiancée and moved out of his house last year on her own accord, Lerato Sengadi was able to compose herself to deliver a commendation speech.

It was another touching moment when an emotional Lerato Sengadi, who was HHP’s media manager, reflected about her relationship with the songster in the following words that elicited sighs at the venue:

“OUR LOVE IS ONE WRITTEN ABOUT IN NOVELS, WRITTEN ABOUT IN SONGS AND ACTED OUT IN MOVIES. IT IS A LOVE THAT PEOPLE CAN ONLY DREAM ABOUT. SO I KNOW FOR SURE GOD DOES NOT MAKE MISTAKES.

“I WILL CONTINUE TO BE STRONG FOR YOU NOW AND PROTECT YOUR LEGACY LIKE I DID WHEN YOU WERE ALIVE. THERE WILL STILL BE SO MUCH SAID BUT I WILL TAKE THOSE LASHINGS WITH THE STRENGTH AND GRACE OF THE WARRIOR QUEEN YOU CHOSE TO SHARE YOUR LIFE WITH.”

Lerato Sengadi’s birthday is Today (Wednesday). At the memorial she moved some people to tears when she said this year’s would be a “strange” birthday for her as HHP wouldn’t be there to share it with her.

No less touching was the reflection by family and friends alike about HHP’s sunny personality. He was fun to be with, the humble celebrity with the goofy grin, someone you would want to spend time with.

Watch video of the memorial below: