Final goodbye: Mandela’s farewell in ancestral home

by: The Voice Online
published: 15 December 2013

Nelson Mandela’s state funeral is under way at his ancestral home in Qunu, ending a week of commemorations for the anti-apartheid hero. Thousands of people – including foreign dignitaries – are attending the service, which blends state ceremonial with traditional rituals.

Members of his family attended an overnight vigil, with a traditional praise singer believed to be chanting details of his long journey and life.

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Delbert Tibbs, death row survivor, rest in peace

Delbert Tibbsby: Huffington Post 
published: 1 December 2013

A peacemaker is how people described Delbert Tibbs. On November 23, 2013, the death penalty abolition movement lost a beloved family member and friend when Delbert, 74, passed away in his home in Chicago.

Delbert Tibbs was many things. He was a sage, a poet, a leader and the nicest person you could ever meet, with an intellect, a spirit and a commitment that inspired all of us. It was an honor to know this peacemaker, and to learn from him.

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Nelson Mandela, hero and former president of South Africa, dies at 95

Nelson 'Madeba' Mandelaoriginally by: CTV News
published: 5 December 2013

A sombre South African President Jacob Zuma announced Mandela’s death in a television address. “Our nation has lost its greatest son. Our people have lost a father. Although we knew that this day would come, nothing can diminish our sense of a profound and enduring loss,” Zuma said.

“His tireless struggle for freedom earned him the respect of the world. His humility, his compassion and his humanity earned him their love.” Zuma said he has ordered all flags in South Africa to be lowered to half-mast, where they will remain until after what will be a state funeral.

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