South African DJ, Publicist and Designer Maria McCloy, Dies

Fashion designer and DJ Maria McCloy has died.
13 May 2026

South Africa has lost one of its most vibrant media and creative figures, Maria McCloy. She was 50.

McCloy passed away at Milpark Hospital in Johannesburg following heart failure, according to a family statement. "It is with deep sorrow and heavy hearts that we confirm the passing of our beloved sister and media industry giant, Maria McCloy (50)," the family said.

McCloy was widely known for her multi-faceted career as a DJ, publicist and fashion designer. The McCloy family said her kindness, warmth, generosity, and unwavering love for those around her touched many lives and will never be forgotten.

She is survived by her mother and two sisters, Thandiwe and Natasha, along with a large circle of family and friends who are devastated by her passing.

The family has requested privacy as they grieve. They expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support and condolences.

Details of the memorial and funeral arrangements will be announced in due course.

AllAfrica publishes around 600 reports a day from more than 90 news organizations and over 500 other institutions and individuals, representing a diversity of positions on every topic. We publish news and views ranging from vigorous opponents of governments to government publications and spokespersons. Publishers named above each report are responsible for their own content, which AllAfrica does not have the legal right to edit or correct.

Articles and commentaries that identify allAfrica.com as the publisher are produced or commissioned by AllAfrica. To address comments or complaints, please Contact us.