Celebrities remember their friend Koyo Bala

Johannesburg- Musician and socialite Koyo Bala's death on Monday morning has left friends, family and fans in a state of shock. 

The 37-year-old 3Sum member, who was diagnosed with anal cancer in 2013, lost the battle against the disease at Groote Schuur Hospital in Cape Town. 

Koyo, who was also HIV positive, was known to be fiercely vocal about his challenges in an attempt to educate others about the disease. During numerous interviews and social media posts over the past two years, Koyo displayed incredible fortitude to come out the winner of this fight. 

Just two weeks ago Koyo underwent a gruelling round of chemotherapy, which was no match for his determination, strength and bravery. "When I'm lying in my bed feeling terrible pain, I tell myself I will wake up and use my time positively." 

It is this determination, strength, and of course his flamboyant nature that Koyo will be remembered for.

Those close to Koyo have taken to social media to pay tribute to him through memories he's left them with. 

One thing's for sure, Koyo's legacy and the way he touched lives will live on forever. 

Here's a look at some of touching tributes to Koyo...

Zakes Bantwini

R.I.P my dearest friend, you said we should meet when I'm in JHB, you said you needed to talk to me about something, you asked me not to make a mistake of not calling you, we were going to meet tomorrow, since I could not make today as you suggested. Did you know you were leaving? I'm so broken ???????????????????? RIP Mngani wami, you are in my prayers on the journey you just started. #RIPKoyoBala

A photo posted by I ?? Education (@zakesbantwini) on Mar 7, 2016 at 4:32am PST

Kelly Khumalo

I'm lost for words, all I can say is life won't be the same without you sohlala sikukhumbula mntase #RIPKoyo????

A photo posted by Kelly Khumalo (@kelly_khumalo) on Mar 7, 2016 at 8:35am PST

Somizi

And this wud be the last time we see him as we leave the airport. I'm shattered @koyo_bala rip

A photo posted by Somizi (@somizi) on Mar 7, 2016 at 2:51am PST

Till death do us apart

A photo posted by Leratokganyago (@leratokganyago) on Mar 7, 2016 at 11:37pm PST

Claire Mawisa

we first met when we were teenagers in high school in cape town. we always spoke about how us capetonians were trying to make it in the big city of joburg. you knew me before all 'this' happened. koyo, your fabulous energy will be sorely missed. looking forward to our catch up gossip session on the other side. my heart is broken. r.i.p

A photo posted by Claire B. Mawisa (@clairemawisa) on Mar 7, 2016 at 5:50am PST

Khabonina Qubeka

SO SAD RIGHT NOW ! I knew #Koyo was ill, but his fire passion & Love for life made me forget he was battling with Cancer! I LOVE U KOYO! RIP CHOMI yam ??

A photo posted by KHABONINA (@khabonina_fitness) on Mar 7, 2016 at 5:17am PST