Mourners from all walks of life gathered on Saturday to bid a final farewell to Pastor Ray McCauley, founder of Rhema Bible Church, during an emotional funeral service at the church in Randburg. McCauley, remembered as a “gentle giant” and “fearless leader,” left a profound impact on his family, friends, and countless individuals who attended the service to pay their respects.
The ceremony was attended by thousands, including international and local leaders, who came together to celebrate the life of the beloved pastor. Among the notable figures present were American evangelist Dr. Creflo Dollar, Bishop Mosa Sono, ACDP leader Kenneth Meshoe, Bosa leader Mmusi Maimane, former Miss South Africa and businesswoman Basetsana Kumalo, and Gauteng social development MEC Faith Mazibuko.
Kwaito star and pastor Kabelo Mabalane, who served as the MC, shared how McCauley had profoundly impacted his life. Recalling their first meeting over two decades ago, Mabalane opened up about his personal struggles at the time, including his addiction to cocaine. He recounted how his initial curiosity about McCauley’s lifestyle eventually led to a life-changing connection.
“I met Pastor McCauley in 2002 at his house. He had a connect group for entertainers and sports stars because he knew that field needed to be harvested. I was high on cocaine when I went, but I was curious to see what kind of cars he drove. After that meeting, a couple of months later, I checked into rehab, and I am proud to say that today, I am 22 years clean,” Mabalane said, receiving applause from the crowd. He credited McCauley for his renewed faith and reaffirmed his commitment to restore the arts in the church.
Basetsana Kumalo, who had a close relationship with McCauley, reflected on how he guided her spiritual journey, beginning when she was just 16. “Pastor Ray has been my guide, moral compass, teacher, and counselor. He was there for me during the most challenging times, including when my parents passed away and when I struggled to conceive. His prayers and support were a constant source of strength,” Kumalo shared. She also fondly recalled McCauley’s love for chocolate cake and his well-known aversion to doctors and hospitals, a detail that brought smiles to the mourners.
While friends and colleagues shared touching tributes, the most heartfelt moments came from McCauley’s family. His brother Alan spoke of their childhood and the pastor’s indomitable spirit, which he attributed to McCauley’s resilience after the loss of his twin sister at birth. “Growing up in a rough neighborhood, I always knew I could count on my three big brothers—James, George, and Ray—who had my back,” Alan said.
McCauley’s son, Pastor Josh, highlighted his father’s love for the church and the example of unwavering faith he set for others. He recalled a childhood memory that reflected McCauley’s competitive nature and desire to run his race to win. “He believed in giving everything he had and was an incredibly generous person,” Josh said.
Zelda McCauley, the pastor’s wife, wrote a moving letter that was read aloud by Kumalo. In it, she reflected on their last moments together and McCauley’s devotion to God and his family. “You were always a great giver, even when you didn’t have much. You always made me feel safe and protected,” she wrote.
Throughout the service, friends and fellow religious leaders paid their respects, remembering McCauley for his passionate preaching and his dedication to fighting poverty. Dr. Creflo Dollar described him as a “real man of God” who showed genuine emotion and love for people. Pastor Bert Pretorius, chairperson of Rhema Family Churches, noted that McCauley “always stood for the truth.”
Delivering the eulogy on behalf of the Gauteng government, Faith Mazibuko spoke of McCauley’s role in advocating for social justice and positioning Rhema Bible Church as an agent of change in society. “Pastor McCauley understood that faith cannot remain silent in a world plagued by inequality, poverty, and unemployment. He turned the church into a force for good,” Mazibuko said.
Pastor Ray McCauley’s legacy will continue through the countless lives he touched, the ministry he built, and his enduring impact on South African society.