Tributes pour in for SA author and publisher Monica Seeber

“The Foundation, its board, staff and members across the globe send our deepest sympathies to the Seeber family, her loved ones and friends,” MIAF director Eddie Hatitye said. “In addition to her prolific work in the literary world, Monica contributed immensely to the work of the Foundation, serving in different fiduciary capacities between 2013 and 2016.

“She was exceptionally kind and knowledgeable, and instantly became an inspiration to many across the Music In Africa network. May her soul rest in eternal peace.”

Colleagues in the creative sector have been sending condolences following news of Seeber’s death.

Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) Cultural Consulting director and former MIAF board member Andre Le Roux wrote on social media: “My dearest Monica Seeber, rest in perfect peaceful sleep. You did so much for so many for the literary world, for emerging and established writers, for the arts community, for copyright, for intellectual property, for those you loved, you gave selflessly. Rest well my friend. I will miss you.”

Academic and Non-Fiction Authors’ Association of South Africa (ANFASA) chairman Prof Sihawukele Ngubane said: “It is with heavy hearts that the Academic and Non-Fiction Authors’ Association of South Africa has learnt about the passing of its founder and treasurer, Lydia Monica Seeber. ANFASA expresses its heartfelt condolences to the Seeber family, her loved ones and friends. Monica was the pillar of ANFASA and respected by many in the publishing industry. Her passing is a great loss to the creative industries.”

At the time of her passing, Seeber served on the ANFASA board as chair and treasurer of the copyright committee. Seeber spent her life advocating for the recognition of creatives and their rights. It was her dream to see authors making a living through their writing.

Funeral details

The Seeber family has advised that the funeral will be held at noon on Friday 22 July at West Park Cemetery in Johannesburg.

“You may bring her favourite flowers, tulips and daffodils. There will be no service. After the funeral, the family and colleagues in attendance are welcome to join the Seebers as we raise a glass to a life well lived and filled with love. The address will be communicated on Friday,” a statement reads.