Derek Watts’ memorial service

Derek Watts

Cape Town — Following the tragic death of veteran journalist Derek Watts this past week, his family announced his memorial service will take place on Thursday 31 August.

Derek passed away at the age of 74 after a long battle with lung cancer.

He had been struggling with his health this year, including a battle with sepsis.

In July, he retired after 35 years in the industry and his death left many devastated and sending messages of condolences to his family.

The family said the memorial service will be a private event for family and close family friends only, but the service will be live-streamed.

According to The South African, Derek’s daughter, Kirsty, wrote a touching tribute to her father on her Facebook page. She expressed how much she loved her father and described him as a “superhero” and “an angel on earth”.

“My dad, my superhero, my best friend, my biggest role model, my everything.

“No words can describe the agony of losing you. No amount of thank yous could be said for everything you did for me. No expressions of love could describe how much I absolutely adored you.”
“You were the kindest, most generous, friendliest, funniest, humblest and most exceptional person I know.”
“I am the luckiest girl alive to have had you as a dad. You supported me and loved me no matter what, always willing to help, always up for some fun and always making me laugh.”
“You touched so many lives and were always willing to give to others long before yourself. This world is a much better place because you were in it ❤️“
“My heart is broken, I will always love you and I will always be grateful for the time we had. You were an angel on earth and now heaven has gained one of the best ones ❤️“

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Compiled by Matthew Petersen

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