Despite his rare appearances following a respiratory infection , Mandela retains his popularity and is considered the founding father and hero of South Africa 's democracy . Mandela 's wife , Mary , dies over the weekend . Her funeral comes the same weekend he returns to Johannesburg . Despite his rare appearances , Mandela retains his popularity .
Mandela 's wife , Mary , dies over the weekend . Her funeral comes the same weekend he returns to Johannesburg . Despite his rare appearances , Mandela retains his popularity .