The beloved former deputy chairperson of the Orlando Pirates Football Club, Donald Daniel “DD” Dhliwayo, has passed away.
Dhliwayo’s family confirmed the tragic news, saying that he passed away on May 1 following a brief illness. He would have celebrated his 99th birthday in a few months.
Kutlwano Dhliwayo, the son of the renowned educator, told Sunday World that the family was still having a hard time accepting his father’s passing.
“The death has come as a shock to the family. He had been suffering from pneumonia and was in the intensive care unit for about six weeks,” said Kutlwano.
“He was starting to get better; he gave us hope, and then around 11pm last week Thursday, he left us.”
Dhliwayo leaves a remarkable legacy of commitment to sports, education, and bettering his community.
In the 1970s, he served as the legendary Buccaneers’ deputy chairman before becoming the team’s chairman.
Dhliwayo is remembered for his effectiveness in shaping the team into one of Africa’s most respected football clubs and securing sponsorships for the club.
A father figure to many people
On and off the pitch, his leadership contributed to laying the groundwork for the club’s future achievements.
He was passionate about more than just football, though.
A lifelong educator, Dhliwayo was dedicated to teaching for at least 40 years and served as the principal of Leratong Primary School.
He was known not only as a teacher but also as a mentor and father figure to many people. His generosity was legendary, often using his own money to pay for students’ school fees and daily needs.
In the 1960s, he partnered with fellow community leader and colleague Thamsanqa Khambule to establish the Rand Bursary Fund, which supported students in pursuing higher education during a time when opportunities were scarce.
Even after retiring from classroom teaching, Dhliwayo’s dedication to learning remained strong.
He went on to open his own school, DD Dhliwayo Primary School, further cementing his role as a pillar of the community in Soweto.
“I only hope that he will be remembered for the good he has done. We have been trying to understand that he is no more, and we truly believe that his life should be celebrated,” said Kutlwano.
Dhliwayo had 14 children. Over time, though, six of his children passed away. He left behind over 50 grandchildren and eight children. His children have been looking after him over the last 20 years.
