Phakathi, who represented Pirates from 2002 to 2005 and also turned out for Maritzburg United and Golden Arrows before hanging up his boots in 2010, died in a car accident on Sunday morning.
The 43-year-old was on his way to training at ABC Motsepe League club Umvoti, who he had coached to league honours and a spot in the upcoming National First Division play-offs.
Pirates released a statement on their website, which reads: 'Orlando Pirates Football Club is saddened to learn of the passing away of former player Bheka Phakathi.
'Phakathi, who played for the Mighty Buccaneers between 2002 and 2005, was coaching ABC Motsepe outfit Umvoti FC at the time of his passing. A team he had led to the Playoffs after an amazing season in the KZN stream.
'On behalf of the entire Orlando Pirates family we would like to convey our deepest and heartfelt condolences to the Phakathi family and supplicate that God provides comfort in this time of pain.'