SA showers Patricia de Lille with support after husband's death
Public works minister Patricia de Lille has been flooded with messages of condolences and support from scores of South Africans after she announced the death of her husband, Edwin on Monday.
Edwin died on Sunday after a long illness.
The minister described her late husband of 49 years as a loving father and husband who supported her in all her endeavours.
“Our marriage was built on respect. Eddie was a true partner in the sense of the word and never stopped me from following my convictions. There was respect and support until his final days and I will miss him dearly.”
The couple had one child.
De Lille's department said it was shocked by the news, and commended the minister for her commitment to her work despite her husband's illness.
“The news has come as a great shock to all of us who never saw Minister de Lille's strength and commitment to her work wavering during this time of her husband's illness. She continued to display the utmost diligence and professionalism in her work,” it said.
Politicians, friends and average South Africans filled social media with messages for the minister, offering their condolences.
Our condolences Minister 🙏🏿
— Julius Sello Malema (@Julius_S_Malema) February 8, 2021
Andre and I extend our deepest sympathies to our dear friend, @ForGoodZA Leader & Minister of Public Works, @PatriciaDeLille on the passing of her husband Eddie last night. We send our love & support to Patricia, their son Alistair, and the De Lille family.
— Brett Herron 🇿🇦 (@brettherron) February 8, 2021
Sincere condolences to Aunty Pat, Alistair and the rest of the de Lille family on the passing of Edwin de Lille. Will keep them in my prayers during this very difficult time.🙏
— Ricardo Mackenzie (@ricardomackenzi) February 8, 2021
Sincere condolences Auntie Pat... May his soul rest in perfect peace 🙏🏾 https://t.co/pcSgmyY5V7
— Mbuyiseni Ndlozi (@MbuyiseniNdlozi) February 8, 2021
So sorry. https://t.co/QKSvjlqJ08
— Denzil Taylor (@DenzilTaylor) February 8, 2021
Condolences to you and the whole family. May his soul Rest In Peace.
— Mmusi Maimane (@MmusiMaimane) February 8, 2021
Our condolences leader. https://t.co/Vzn3LLsSA1
— Vuyisile Khumalo™ (@KHUMAVU) February 8, 2021
Strongs, auntie Pat ❤️ https://t.co/U3alpjVKck
— Aydon Windvogel (@AydWind) February 8, 2021
Terribly sorry for your loss Aunty Pat. Strength to you and the family ❤️🙏🏾 https://t.co/eOhQC2uCRq
— MaDlamini (@SpokyJama) February 8, 2021