TODAY we not only mourn the departure of a man but we celebrate the extraordinary life of Jermaine Craig – a beacon of love, humility, and unparalleled talent whose legacy transcends borders, touches hearts, and reshapes the very essence of sports journalism in South Africa and beyond.
Jermaine’s journey began in the humble streets of Silvertown, Cape Town – a boy with dreams as vast as the African sky, fueled by a passion for sports and an unwavering commitment to capturing the intricate tapestry of athletic triumphs and tribulations. Through his words, he painted the vivid portrait of South Africa’s resurgence onto the global sports stage after years of isolation – a testament to his dedication to telling stories that resonated with every heart that beat for the game.
His pen etched tales of victory and defeat, documenting the highs and lows of athletes, the triumphs and tribulations of South African football on both the continental and world stage. He journeyed alongside national, African, and global football stars, sharing meals with royalty and walking shoulder to shoulder with legends, all while emanating a larger-than-life presence, characterized by his unmatched humility and strength.
Jermaine’s dedication knew no bounds. In his final days, he tirelessly worked to ensure the success of the African Cup of Nations, Africa’s premier tournament that spans 56 countries, each touched by his relentless commitment to excellence.
His spirit of equality and respect knew no bounds – whether you hailed from Silvertown, or from Brazil, like global FIFA World Cup-winning star Cafu, or from Nigeria where football icon Kanu was born, Jermaine’s embrace was one of genuine warmth and acceptance.
One of his many crowning moments was when Africa won its first FIFA World Cup, and Jermaine stood as the face and voice of the 2010 FIFA World Cup Organising Committee in South Africa. He mentored legends like Diego Maradona about South African life, guiding him through the intricate tapestry of life and football in South Africa’s townships – a testament to the profound connections he forged with icons of the game.
Jermaine’s words were so compelling that they garnered an invitation from the great Nelson Mandela himself, who welcomed him into his home in Houghton, a testament to the power of his pen in shaping narratives that echoed the heartbeats of a nation.
But beyond his professional achievements, Jermaine’s life was a testimony to love, respect, and humility – a humble leader who touched the lives of millions worldwide. The outpouring of love and support toward his beloved wife Michelle and their boys, Matthew and Christian, stands as a testament to the indelible mark he left on countless souls.
His dreams, forged on the streets of Silvertown, saw him rise from a metro writer to the esteemed editor of the Cape Argus – a journey marked not only by personal achievements but by elevating the publication to reflect and serve the people it represented.
From The Star to The Saturday Star and The Sunday Independent, Jermaine’s work resonated across borders, touching hearts and shaping perspectives, be it for historic teams like Kaizer Chiefs, 4Racing, La Liga, or in roles such as a judge in the Vodacom Journalists of the Year panel or as communications expert at TourismSA.
His passion, professionalism, and dedication to mentoring young South Africans in journalism reflect the true essence of his legacy – a legacy that forever altered the paths of those whose lives he touched.
Four days before bidding us farewell, we sat in his garden in Johannesburg sipping on our favourite malt and engaging in one of the deepest conversations of our over two-decade-long friendship. In that moment, amidst the gentle embrace of the Joburg breeze, Jermaine spoke of love. His love for Michelle, his boys, his Mom, Aunty Brenda, and the ongoing struggle to find the delicate work-life balance. He spoke about how he forever missed his brother Chad. Now they are together.
Today, as we bid farewell, let us remember Jermaine Craig – the Boy from Silvertown, whose dreams became a reality. He walked this earth for four decades and seven years, leaving an indelible imprint on the sands of time. The world knows that Jermaine Craig was here – a force whose legacy of love, respect, and humility shall endure, shaping hearts and minds for generations to come.
Rest in peace, Comrado!
Your footsteps echo in eternity, and as you journey to the world beyond, know that you have left an irreplaceable mark – a testament to the truth that the first sun found us awake and waiting, shaping the landscape, taming the winds, leaving an everlasting legacy that will forever be celebrated.
I am sure that in welcoming you to the celestial realm, perhaps Bra Don Mattera, the veteran poet, would have said:
“When the first sun rose
It found us awake and waiting
Long before others came to these hills
Our footsteps shaped the landscape
Tamed the buffalo and the gemsbok
We rode the wind
We silenced the hurricane
Look at us,
We have been here before.”
Jermaine Craig, the world was forever changed because you graced it with your presence.
Your spirit shall live on in the hearts of those you’ve touched, for eternity.
