“My sister was sick. She did have a short illness and we really thought she was recovering. But this morning it turned out she hadn’t fully recovered from her illness. She was quickly rushed to the hospital. Unfortunately, she was pronounced dead,” Ms Rakeepile told SABC TV.
It is not clear what she was suffering from.
Khumalo leaves a rich music and television legacy and was a household name for her powerful voice and versatile performances.
She released numerous solo albums, as well as being the back-up singer to Brenda Fassie.
She is survived by her daughter, Rethabile Khumalo, who is also a singer and her son, Thabo Khumalo.
Fans and fellow celebrities have taken to social media with tributes, expressing shock and sadness.
The Kalawa Jazmee Records, the record label that Khumalo worked with, described her as a “true icon” for inspiring many with her powerful voice and “unforgettable performances”.
“Her passion, talent, and dedication to her craft have left an indelible mark on the industry and in the hearts of her fans,” the label said in a statement.
