02/17/2026
Desmond Tutu , Family life:. An image of Arch Bishop Desmond Tutu with his wife and children.
Archbishop Desmond Tutu’s public life was deeply rooted in a strong family foundation. He was married to Nomalizo Leah Shenxane, born on 14 October 1933 in Krugersdorp. The couple married on 2 July 1955 and shared nearly seven decades together.
They raised four children: Trevor Thamsanqa, Theresa Thandeka, Naomi Nontombi and Mpho Andrea, all of whom attended Waterford Kamhlaba School in Swaziland. Together, Desmond and Leah Tutu built a family life shaped by faith, love, and commitment amid the pressures of apartheid and public struggle.
The Tutu family later grew to include nine grandchildren. In 2015, the couple renewed their marriage vows in Orlando, Soweto. This was a celebration of enduring partnership and devotion.
Image details: SAHO image archive/BAHA Image library
photographer: Unknown
Engage in the comments if you can add context.
About South African History Online (SAHO)
Established in 1998, South African History Online (SAHO) is the largest and most comprehensive online resource on South African and African history. With millions of visitors annually, SAHO is a trusted source for schools, universities, researchers, media, and the broader public.
