UNITED STATES – The body of blossoming mbira musician, Chiedza Brown, who committed suicide on the 12th of September, will be cremated and the ashes flown to Zimbabwe for burial in Mberengwa.
The 15-year-old Chiedza was the daughter of the late legendary singers Chiwoniso Maraire and Andy Brown.
According to Andy Brown’s sister, Queen Mashie “She will be cremated in the States and we will bring her ashes to go to Mberengwa.”
Chiedza’a younger sister, Chengeto, posted on her Facebook wall;
“I begin my journey of accepting you are now with mom and dad. It is the hardest, most painful pill to swallow. Chiedza my love, if only you knew how much of me you took with you.”
It’s not known yet what drove Chiedza to commit suicide.
The 15-year-old singer, painter and actress was at the time living in Texas with her aunt, Tawona Maraire. The family have since requested privacy as they attempt to deal with the latest tragedy to befall the family.
In a statement the family said Chiedza “was known to all for her bright energy and was always laughing. She was an incredibly caring person who had dreams of pursuing her art and music.
“She will be remembered for her energy, her smile and her love for all. The Maraire and Brown families are asking for privacy as they mourn the loss of such a young life.
“For those who may ask what they can do to honor Chiedza, the family asks that you please send donations to help with her services in Texas and her burial with her family in Zimbabwe.”
“Donations can be made via PayPal to the Chiedza Brown Memorial Fund (chiedzabrownmemorial@gmail.com). Service details will be announced in the next few days. The family thanks everyone for their support and respect.”
Chiedza’s father, the legendary singer and guitarist Andy Brown, passed away on the 16th of March, 2012, a day after his 50th birthday.
Just a year later her mother, mbira queen and singer/songwriter, Chiwoniso Maraire, Andy’s ex-wife passed away at the age of 37.