Theophilus Clive Solomon, described as a social activist who tirelessly advocated for the betterment and resilience of the community, passed away on Saturday (29/10). Oom Clive, as he was called, succumbed to heart complications at the age of 78.
He is survived by his wife, Mavis, sons Theo and Claude, as well as six grandchildren.
Mavis described her late husband as a pillar of the community, adding that he would be missed.
“In those different roles in structures he was involved in, Clive has left footprints and shoes too big for anyone to fill. The shoes are even too big for our sons,” said Mavis.
“I accepted his passing as I saw he could not recover after falling ill earlier this year. He passed on, having kept to our marriage vows ‘till death do us part’.
“I fondly remember Clive for loving and caring for his family. In his hectic schedule, which included work and travelling because of activism, Clive fulfilled his role towards the family.
“Through him, I was taught to understand his passion for community upliftment.”
Clive Solomon’s impact in the community is unquestionable. He was active in civic and community-based structures and an equally dedicated Christian, being a servant of the Roman Catholic Church. He was respected by top government politicians, who include the likes of the late former president Nelson Mandela, Winkie Direko and Terror Lekota.
In addition to being a skilled carpenter, he documented the history of Heidedal through the means of photojournalism.
Tributes are pouring in.
“The tree of Heidedal has fallen. Sir Clive, you served Heidedal with distinction. As God called you, you left a footprint that is indelible. Rest in eternal peace, sir Clive Solomon. Our sincerest condolences to aunty Mavis, aunty Una, Theo, Claude, and the entire Solomon family. The Pope of Heidedal was a tremendous pillar for the rich and the poorest in the community. He had a heart of compassion and epitomised what humanity is,” said Harry Carelse, chaplain at the Road Traffic Management Corporation.
Carelse explained the origin of the reference “The Pope”.
“I called him the Pope after the Pope awarded him a certificate, and that signalled the respect oom Clive had and has earned because of humanity.”
“Solomon was a football legend. I knew him whilst he was still a player,” said Obakeng Molatedi, founding member of Safa.
“I used to watch him play at Masenkeng Stadium. He was a very good striker, playing for Heidedal’s pick team and partnering with Billy Murison. He became a top football administrator. Heidedal clubs were members of the Football Federation whilst Mangaung clubs were members of the African Football Association and Bantu Football Association.
“Clive and Billy were involved in the negotiations when we formed Safa. Their contributions were vital.
“Clive served the Heidedal community in social and welfare activities. May his soul rest in eternal peace.”
The funeral will be on Saturday (05/11), with the memorial today at the Heide Primary School, at 18:00.
