Plans for gospel singer Betty Bayo’s final send-off are now in motion, following her untimely passing on November 10 while undergoing treatment at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH).
During a service held at Blue Springs Hotel, family spokesperson Elder David Kigomo confirmed that the beloved “11th Hour” hitmaker will be laid to rest on Thursday, November 20, at Mugumo Estate along Kiambu Road, where she owned land.
A memorial service will also take place at Christian Foundation Fellowship (CFF) Church, along Kiambu Road, where the late singer worshipped.
Earlier, speculation had been rife regarding her burial site — with some suggesting it could be at her ex-husband Pastor Victor Kanyari’s home, her current husband Tash’s residence, or their jointly purchased land in Maragua, Murang’a County.
The family has since dismissed these rumours, confirming that the decision rests with her estate along Kiambu Road.
Funeral Budget and Appeal for Support
Preparations for the burial are ongoing, with the budget estimated at KSh 5 million. During a recent fundraising gathering, fellow gospel musician Ben Githae appealed to fans and well-wishers to contribute towards the funeral costs.
“I am asking that as you leave, kindly make our treasurer very busy. You know the budget is KSh 5 million, and we are the ones to settle it,” he said.
Silent Battle with Illness
According to close friend and gospel artist Shiru wa GP, Betty had been battling leukaemia in silence, choosing not to make her condition public. Shiru revealed that Betty feared public ridicule and specifically asked her friends not to post photos of her during the illness.
Her Final Moments
Shiru gave a heartbreaking account of Betty’s last night, explaining that she was found bleeding in bed after her condition suddenly worsened.
Despite her weakness, she managed to walk to her car and honk for help, alerting her neighbours.
She was rushed to AAR Hospital, but doctors initially declined to admit her due to lack of funds. “They called me, and I paid KSh 260,000 so she could be admitted,” Shiru said, adding that thirty friends later came together and raised KSh 1.3 million for her treatment.
Doctors later confirmed that Betty had suffered a stroke caused by a blood clot in her brain.
Her health deteriorated quickly, and she was transferred to KNH, where she died two days later — a devastating loss to her family, friends, and the entire gospel fraternity.
From KNH to Final Resting Place
After her passing, Betty’s body was transferred from the KNH mortuary to the Kenyatta University Funeral Home along Thika Road, where her remains are being preserved as preparations continue for her final send-off.
BY Geoffrey mbuthia
