The South African media and entertainment industry is mourning the passing of renowned publicist, DJ, and fashion designer Maria McCloy, who died on Tuesday evening at the age of 50.
According to a statement released by her family, McCloy passed away at Milpark Hospital in Johannesburg following a heart failure.
Describing her as a “vibrant and creative soul”, the family said McCloy embraced life wholeheartedly and made a lasting impact on everyone around her through her work and personality.
“Her kindness, warmth, generosity, and unwavering love for those around her touched many lives and will never be forgotten,” the statement reads.
McCloy built a respected name for herself in the entertainment and lifestyle industries over the years, earning admiration from colleagues, friends, and clients alike.
Known for her sharp eye for fashion, creative flair, and energetic presence, she became a familiar figure in Johannesburg’s media and social circles.
Bringing people together
She helped shape the city’s creative landscape since the 1990s, from co-founding the groundbreaking Black Rage Productions and Outrageous Records, which helped launch the careers of artists like Proverb and Reason, to building a celebrated Afrocentric accessories and fashion label.
Beyond her professional achievements, those close to her remembered her as someone who brought people together and created spaces filled with laughter, comfort, and love.
The family said they were devastated by the loss and asked for privacy to grieve.
“She had a special way of bringing people together, and her presence brought comfort, laughter and love to all who knew her,” the statement reads further.
McCloy is survived by her mother and sisters, Thandiwe and Natasha, as well as extended family members and close friends.
The family also expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support and condolences since they announced the news of her death.
They expect to communicate the details regarding her memorial and funeral services in due course.
- Renowned South African publicist, DJ, and fashion designer Maria McCloy died at age 50 from heart failure at Milpark Hospital, Johannesburg.
- McCloy was celebrated for her vibrant personality, creative contributions, and significant impact on the media, entertainment, and fashion industries since the 1990s.
- She co-founded Black Rage Productions and Outrageous Records, which launched the careers of artists like Proverb and Reason, and created a notable Afrocentric fashion label.
- Remembered for her kindness and ability to bring people together, McCloy was a cherished figure in Johannesburg’s social and creative circles.
- She is survived by her mother, sisters Thandiwe and Natasha, family, and friends; her family has requested privacy and will announce memorial details later.
“Her kindness, warmth, generosity, and unwavering love for those around her touched many lives and will never be forgotten,” the statement reads.
McCloy built a respected name for herself in the entertainment and lifestyle industries over the years, earning admiration from colleagues, friends, and clients alike.
Known for her sharp eye for fashion, creative flair, and energetic presence, she became a familiar figure in Johannesburg’s media and social circles.
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McCloy is survived by her mother and sisters,
