Obituaries

Celebrating the Life of Mama Leah Gechemba Simba (1933 – 2026)

It is with deep sorrow yet gratitude for a life beautifully lived that we announce the sunset of Mama Leah Gechemba Simba, who peacefully rested on May 23, 2026, due to heart failure. She was a cherished pillar of love, discipline, and unwavering faith within her family and the entire Kisii County community.

Early Life, Education, and Maturation

Mama Leah was born in 1933 in Magonga-Gesusu village, Kisii County, to the late Orogo Nyokwoyo and the late Mama Loice Mocheche. Growing up in a vibrant home, she was the third-born sibling to Basweti, Kwamboka, Matundura, Nyokwoyo, Nyachiro, Gesare, Moraa, and others. In 1938, she joined Getacho-Gesusu School, studying up to Standard 2. Embracing the rich cultural heritage of her people, she underwent her traditional initiation in 1947 in accordance with Gusii customs, marking her transition into an industrious and focused adulthood.

A Life of Hard Work and Devotion

As a dedicated peasant farmer, Mama Leah poured her energy into cultivating cash crops and keeping livestock, single-handedly ensuring her family was well-provided for. Her life was deeply rooted in Christ. She was an exceptionally strong believer and a devoted member of the Nyacheki Main Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) Church. For decades, her beautiful voice served faithfully in the church choir, uplifting spirits until her final days.

Marriage and Family Legacy

God blessed Mama Leah with a vast, loving family. Her children, who became her ultimate pride and joy, include:

Francis (formerly Adult Education Officer)

Patrick Nyamira (formerly of Kericho KTRF)

Andrew Oanda Kerima (of Nakuru)

Joash Ngala(formerly of Nyanchwa Girls)

Madam Ruth (of Getare DOK Comprehensive School)

Pastor Clement Simba (of Machang’a PAG Church, Mbeere)

The late Musa

Naftali Nyaberi Simba (formerly of the Ministry of Agriculture, Kabete)

She was also a profoundly loving and caring stepmother to Manyange, Paulinah, Tabitha, Charles Osoro (formerly of NCPB), the late John (of General Plastics), Joseph Nyabuto (of Tana River), Haron Jomo (of Nairobi), Zablon Nyagaka (of Narok), Joyce (of Eldoret), and James Karasi Simba (of Kirobon Boys Senior School, Nakuru). Her expansive heart extended to her sons-in-law, daughters-in-law, and dozens of grandchildren and great-grandchildren, all of whom she welcomed, united, and inspired to prosper.

Health and Final Days

Mama Leah enjoyed robust health for most of her life. In 2020, she was diagnosed with heart disease, which was carefully managed. Following a brief decline in 2023 and a successful operation, she encountered further illness in 2024, receiving exceptional care at Tenwek Hospital. In May 2026, she faced health complications that led to admissions at Ichuni Mission Hospital. Despite dedicated medical interventions and under intensive care, Mama Leah rested peacefully on May 23, 2026.

Funeral Service Details Her farewell ceremonies and laying to rest were conducted on Friday, June 5, 2026, bringing together community, family, administration, and friends to honor a true matriarch.

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” — 2 Timothy 4:7