It is with a heavy heart that I say goodbye. Your kindness, wisdom, and unwavering support have touched my life in ways I can never fully express. You were more than a HOD and colleague; you were a mentor and a friend.

I will forever remember the memories of your incredible generosity, like the time you cooked a delicious lasagna for my vegetarian daughter, and your constant willingness to help, even in your free time. Your spirit of inspired us all, and your legacy of compassion and selflessness will continue to guide us.

Thank you for everything, Dr. Stephen. You will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.

With deepest respect and gratitude,

He was dedicated to helping his students and colleagues at all hours, a proud father of two daughters, and a transformative leader who greatly improved our department.

Though you are gone, your spirit lives on in our memories

Muhamed Ali

He was a true gentleman and a lovely guy. Will think of you always. Philip

I didn't really know Steve well and personally, but he passed through my life on two occasions, both related to PhDs, and both times making an important contribution and leaving a lasting impact.

I first met Steve at meetings of the SACP Jhb West branch, where he too was a member. At the time he was also working on his PhD, in which the SACP had a starring role. I remember him from then as young and engaged, quiet but thoughtful, with a droll sense of humour.

We lost touch after that until he emerged some 20 years later, having foolishly offered to supervise my own incipient PhD, which dealt with universal access and service in the telecommunications field. We would meet in his office, mostly to debate broader questions of political theory - lengthy, wide-ranging and insightful discussions. Without his insights and suggestions (and complaints about my inordinate fondness for footnotes!) my PhD and subsequent book would have been the poorer.

Not long after that he moved to Sharjah, to study camel racing as he put it, perhaps as a relief from fah-fee.

I never met his wife and family, although he spoke about them often. My deepest condolences to them. It's a sad loss.

Hamba kahle, Bra Steve.