The memorial service for the late publicist and fashion designer Maria McCloy takes place on Wednesday, 20 May 2026. The service will be held at the Johannesburg Theatre from 11:00 until 14:00. Guests will gather under the dress code “Styled by Maria,” a tribute to her bold fashion identity and creative legacy.
Family, friends, and colleagues will come together to celebrate her life, reflecting on both her career achievements and the warmth she shared with those around her.
MARIA MCCLOY MEMORIAL SERVICE
Maria McCloy died on Tuesday evening, 12 May 2026, at Milpark Hospital in Johannesburg after suffering heart failure. She was 50 years old. Her family confirmed her passing in an official statement shared with the public.
In their tribute, her family described her as a vibrant and creative soul who embraced life wholeheartedly. They also remembered her for the love and warmth she extended to everyone she met throughout her life and career.
The statement read, “It is with deep sorrow and heavy hearts that we confirm the passing of our beloved sister and media industry giant, Maria McCloy (50). Maria sadly passed away on Tuesday evening, 12 May 2026 at Milpark Hospital in Johannesburg following heart failure.”
HER CAREER AND LEGACY
Maria McCloy co-founded the multimedia company Black Rage Productions alongside Kutloano Skosana and Addiel Dzinoreva in the mid-1990s. The company became known for its strong influence in South Africa’s entertainment and media landscape.
She also played a key role in Outrageous Records as one of its founding members. Through these ventures, Maria McCloy helped shape and develop the careers of several prominent South African talents, including Siyabonga Ngwekazi, ProVerb, and Reason.
MARIA MCCLOY FINAL TRIBUTE
As preparations continue for the memorial service, the industry reflects on Maria McCloy’s lasting impact. The “Styled by Maria” dress code reflects her bold fashion identity and creative influence.
Her memorial service will celebrate a life that shaped South African media, fashion, and entertainment, leaving behind a powerful and enduring legacy.
