Renowned musician and retired university lecturer, Dr Yolisa Priscilla Nompula was laid to rest at her ancestral home of Sigubudwini in Flagstaff on 29 August 2026.
Dr Nompula passed away unexpectedly at her Umhlanga Rocks home in Durban on 17 August 2026 at the age of 78 years. Dr Nompula, the third born child out of eleven children of the late Gerald Nompula, a school principal and musician Mr Gerald Nompula and Grace Nompula born Maquthu. Dr Nompula received her primary education at Mketengeni primary school in Holy Cross in Flagstaff and secondary education at Palmerton Senior Secondary School in Lusikisiki. She trained as a teacher at Sigcau Teacher Training College.
She started teaching at Swane JSS and later at Holy Cross JSS. She later enrolled at the University of Zululand where she obtained a Bachelor of Music and later Master of Music degree. She was employed as a lecturer in Music at the University of Transkei now known as Walter Sisulu University. She also had a slot in Radio Transkei where she produced Classical Music
Yolisa Nompula left the University of Transkei and went to her sister who was living in the United States of America, Dr Nomusic Morobe. While in the United States of America Yolisa Nompula completed a Doctor of Philosophy in Music. Dr Yolisa Nompula returned to South Africa and was employed as Music lecturer at the University of KwaZulu-Natal until her retirement. Dr Nompula was an adjudicator of music competitions for Sasce Old Mutual, Melting Pot, Department of Arts and Culture. She was an examiner of Music for Umalusi in Matric examinations. She was a member of Durban Philharmonic Orchestra.
Chief Diliza Ndabankulu of the Siphaqeni Traditional Council described Dr Nompula as one of the great musicians from Pondoland who raised the flag of Pondoland with other great musicians, Mr Mziwandile Ngqobe and Mr Lihle Biata. The Chief said Pondoland has lost great patriots. They will for ever remember them. Members of the Durban Philharmonic Orchestra rendered soulful pieces of music at the funeral. Her longtime friend and confidant, Miss N Kango described how they enjoyed overseas holidays in countries in Asia and Europe. Messages of condolence from University of KwaZulu-Natal and Durban North community were passed at the funeral. The funeral service was conducted by Rev Dean Nomatshila of Anglican Church. Dr Nompula s only son, Siyabulela Nompula pre deceased her. Dr Nompula is survived by her grandson Sihle Nompula, her sister’s and brother. Rest in peace Dibakazi Dlomo Ngqolomsila, you will ever be remembered.