The distinguished globally renowned South African singer Sibongile Khumalo whose work spanned several musical boundaries has died. She was 63. SABC news reports that the jazz musician and opera singer ''will be laid to rest next Saturday in Johannesburg. She died from stroke-related complications.''

Known in South Africa as 'Mam Sibongile she had an extraordinary voice. Born in Soweto she performed at Nelson Mandela’s 75th birthday and 1994 presidential inauguration. The Steve Biko Foundation has paid tribute among many online by commenting that “Ms Khumalo’s warmth and generosity of spirit were matched only by the immense talent she demonstrated and the glorious voice that lifted our national spirits on so many occasions.”

Read a full obituary in The New York Times