Dr Franklin Sonn remembered for his humility and honour

Cape Town
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Camray Clarke

24 November 2025 | 4:13

A memorial service took place at the Groote Kerk in the Cape Town CBD on Saturday, where mourners and gathered to reflect on his life and his legacy.

Dr Franklin Sonn remembered for his humility and honour

Educator, diplomat and business leader Dr Franklin Sonn. Picture: @MatiesResearch/X

Anti-apartheid and community activist Dr Franklin Sonn will be remembered for his humility and his humour.

A memorial service took place at the Groote Kerk in the Cape Town CBD on Saturday, where mourners and gathered to reflect on his life and his legacy.

Sonn died earlier in November at the age of 86.

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Hailed as a great patriot, the anti-apartheid stalwart was honoured at Groote Kerk on Adderley Street, a venue worthy of his stature and the dignity he commanded in life.

Mourners gathered Saturday morning to honour the beloved husband, family man, and nation builder, who was rememberedfor his lifelong contribution to justice and commitment to the people of South Africa.

Several prominent figures attended the service, including former Finance Minister Trevor Manuel.

"Strength, wisdom, far-sightedness - in my interactions with Franklin Sonn, those three attributes were in many respect what marked him, his life and interactions."

Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) Chancellor and best friend to Sonn, Professor Brian Figadji was also in attendance.

"I benefitted enormously from Franklin's generosity. He created opportunities for me guided my career in ways that leaves me eternally grateful.

Mourners agreed that Sonn's life of service and leadership left a legacy that would inspire generations to come.

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