Always humble: Tying a photographer's shoelace at the airport

As a leader of the black liberation struggle inside South Africa, Archbishop Tutu gave a voice to the oppressed - especially those living in townships around Cape Town.

The 69-year-old Anglican archbishop won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1984 for his role in fighting white rule and he helped bring international attention to the injustices of apartheid.

He then chaired the Truth and Reconciliation Commission which investigated apartheid-era abuses and gave amnesty to those who confessed their involvement.

He told journalists on his return that the United States, which had not fully dealt with its legacy of slavery, could benefit by setting up a similar commission, before which African and native Americans could tell of their experiences of discrimination.

Alongside Nelson Mandela, Archbishop Tutu holds a special place in the hearts of all South Africans.

They will be glad he has returned home, but sad that this giant of the anti-apartheid struggle is finally retiring from public life.