Following his death, the PSL award for the top goalscorer was renamed the Lesley Manyathela Golden Boot in his honour and the national team temporarily retired the number 19 jersey which he had previously worn.
[10][11] After his death later that year, the South African Football Association temporarily retired the number 19 jersey which he had worn during his time with the national team.
[12] He was driving with a friend at the time of the accident, who suffered only minor injuries, Manyathela was pronounced dead at the scene and was en route to visit his mother for Women's Day celebrations.
[6] His death was considered a national tragedy and drew comment from South African President Thabo Mbeki who offered his condolences to the family, friends and teammates of Manyathela.
[6] He was laid to rest on 16 August 2003 with Orlando Pirates chairman Irvin Khoza and Mamelodi Sundowns owner Patrice Motsepe among those acting as pallbearers.