RADIOWAVE DJ, producer and anti-GBV advocate Kelly Thompson died early yesterday morning in Windhoek after losing her battle against cancer. She was 40.
The popular DJ rose to fame after working at Radiowave 96.7 FM since the late 90s. According to a statement released by the radio station, Thompson was a talented woman who brought a unique flair to the office.
“Kelly was with Radiowave on and off from the beginning of 1998, and brought her own special laugh, sense of humour and subtlety to her show, and was very popular with the Radiowave audience during her time of presenting ‘The Coffee Break’ show, and standing in on other shows as required,” read the statement.
Thompson had been fighting breast cancer for some time, beating stage three in 2011 and stage four in 2017. Unfortunately, she was plagued with another attack early this month, to which she succumbed.
“Versatile and ready to jump in anywhere, Kelly will be sorely missed. A lot of our listeners have reached out to offer their condolences to her family,” Radiowave’s statement further said.
“Kelly was also instrumental in growing the Radiowave marketing department. She was in popular demand for her MC work, and enjoyed a busy work life until she became ill.
“Throughout her illness, she reached out to others, and offered encouragement to all around her. Her fighting spirit and belief that she would once more overcome her battle with cancer is what we will remember.”
Thompson had been vocal about her cancer journey, tweeting earlier in January: “After receiving not-so-good news, my future looks less bright. I guess my time is coming, but I’m ready for it.”
Condolences from friends poured onto social media yesterday, with the Namibia Coalition Against GBSV writing: “We are saddened to hear that our dear friend and coalition member, Kelly Thompson, has passed away. Thank you Kelly for being a lighthouse to so many women in need, for always showing up with vigour and strength, and for lending a helping hand with protests, campaigns and workshops.”
Singer Savannah Collins also shared her sentiments: “You were the strongest, most brave and kind-hearted person I have met. The world has lost an angel, but may you rest in peace now, free of pain and suffering. Forever in my heart.”
CEO and founder at CamelEye Productions, Caleb Cindano, praised his friend for her strength: “You have fought the bravest fight against cancer I have ever witnessed, your laughter and joyful soul right up to the end strengthened so many of us. Your legacy will live on forever in our hearts, and in our Guinness World Record movie. Love you forever my dear friend, and fly high with the angels.”
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