Johannesburg – Family, friends and colleagues gathered on Friday to honour the life and legacy of broadcaster Warrick Stock, better known as DJ Warras, at an emotional memorial service held at The Galleria in Sandton, Johannesburg.
Stock, who was tragically shot and killed earlier this month, was remembered as a man deeply committed to justice, love, and the people of South Africa. The service was attended by family, media figures, and political leaders who reflected on his life, work, and the indelible mark he left on the media industry.
His sister, Nicole Stock, delivered a heartfelt tribute, describing her brother as a man whose voice belonged not just to his family but to the nation. “He was the epitome of love. He was love in flesh and blood,” she said, speaking with anger over his untimely death. “I am very, very angry. He was taken away from us too early,” she continued, adding that Stock was a “divergent thinker” whose voice should never have been silenced by violence. 
Nicole also shared her brother’s passion for discussing race, politics, and social issues, saying that Stock spoke out not to divide, but because he believed in confronting uncomfortable truths. She said, “It was a gun in the hands of evil that stole my brother.”
Stock’s son, Ethan, also honoured his father, describing him as a devoted and loving parent who always prioritized his family. “My father was the complete opposite of how the media portrayed him. He was the life of the party and the brightest light in every room,” Ethan said, reflecting on his father’s role as his hero and inspiration.
The memorial also saw tributes from various figures in the media industry. Mzansi Magic praised Stock for bringing energy and authenticity to every project, while former colleagues from Live AMP recalled his natural ability to command a room. Marvin Cohen, a long-time friend, described Stock as someone who “loved everybody aggressively,” noting that he ended every phone call with “I love you, bye.”
Broadcaster Sizwe Dhlomo remembered Stock as a rare talent who transcended social and cultural divisions. “He got along with everybody,” Dhlomo said. “He liked to bring people together, even when he disagreed with you.”
Political figure Liam Jacobs urged others to honour Stock’s legacy by being brave, outspoken, and authentic. “To honour his legacy, we must be brave, outspoken and authentic,” Jacobs said.
The service concluded with a message that Stock’s life, though cut short, was one of impact and courage. As Nicole Stock put it, “His life was not a whisper. It was a roar. And that roar still stands.”
