The Kaizer Chiefs family is in mourning after the news that legend Doctor Khumalo’s mother Mabel had passed away on Tuesday.

The news comes as the country is in lockdown due to the coronavirus pandemic, but both Chiefs chairman Kaizer Motaung and Orlando Pirates/PSL chairman Dr Irvin Khoza have commented on Mabel’s passing.

‘She was a wonderful person who played her supportive role in the background,’ said Motaung Snr.

‘I knew her in the late 60s when “Pro” [Doctor’s father, Eliakim] was playing for Moroka Swallows before joining us to form Kaizer Chiefs in 1970.

‘And, it is known that her son Doctor Khumalo grew up at Kaizer Chiefs and developed to be a household name in international football. We can only be grateful of the contribution that Mme Mabel made to Kaizer Chiefs and football in general,’ he concluded.

‘Mme Mabel Khumalo, mother of Doctor Khumalo, has departed,’ Khoza said.

‘Our hearts and prayers are with the Khumalo family. We received the sad news of the passing of your dear mother, Mme Mabel Khumalo, at this difficult time when our nation and the world are in lockdown.

‘We are grateful to Ausi Mabel for her role besides the legendary late Eliakim “Pro” Khumalo for nurturing an era-defining talent, Doctor Khumalo.’

With the Khumalos playing a storied part in the history of Kaizer Chiefs, the club also released a statement on Tuesday saying that everyone involved at the club is saddened by the news.

‘Kaizer Chiefs family is reeling with shock after receiving the sad news of the passing of Mme Mabel Khumalo. Mme Mabel Khumalo is the wife of the late Kaizer Chiefs stalwart and founding member, Eliakim “Pro” Khumalo, and the mother of the living legend Doctor Khumalo,’ the club said.

‘It is regrettable news to receive especially in this time when we are in distress due to the coronavirus pandemic that is currently creeping [over] the world. Words cannot describe our sympathy as Amakhosi to Doctor Khumalo and the entire bereaved family during this difficult time.’

Further details of the memorial service and burial are due to be announced later.