Popular gospel artist Beatrice Wairimu Mbugua, better known as Betty Bayo, is dead.
Betty died on Monday, November 10, at 1pm, following a lengthy and difficult battle with cancer. She had been receiving treatment at Kenyatta National Hospital.
Her ex-partner, Pastor Kanyari, with whom Betty shared two children, broke the sad news on his social media platform, saying, “R.I.P Mama Sky. The mother to my kids.”
Family spokespersons confirmed that Betty Bayo had been unwell for over a week after being diagnosed with acute mild leukaemia.
“Betty has been unwell since last week; she was diagnosed with acute mild cancer—leukemia. Betty was transferred to KNH on Friday as she was suffering from excessive bleeding. The doctors tried their best, but the will of God has prevailed,” the family said.
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Betty’s death has sent ripples of shock and sadness through the Kenyan gospel music community. One of her industry friends, Bishop Benson Gathungu Kamau, paid tribute to her, recalling the immense impact she had on the gospel music scene.
“Living a life of praising God and business, the mother of two was a jovial artist until lately, when she was diagnosed with blood cancer (Leukaemia) at an advanced stage,” the bishop said.
He described Betty as someone who had “maximised her full potential,” leaving behind a lasting legacy in the gospel music industry.
Betty’s influence on gospel music was far-reaching, and her hit song “11th Hour” touched the lives of many. Bishop Gathungu further remarked, “She leaves behind a legacy of a great contribution to the growth of the Gospel Music industry, friendship, and a soul that maximised its full potential. She has rested after serving.”
Gospel musician Daddy Owen eulogised Betty as a true vessel of God, whose voice and ministry touched countless lives. “Her passion for the Gospel will never be forgotten. To her family, friends, and the entire Gospel fraternity, may God comfort and strengthen you,” he said.
Nairobi County Woman Representative Esther Passaris also expressed her condolences, saying, “My heartfelt prayers go out to her family, friends, and the entire Kenyan gospel fraternity during this difficult time. May her soul rest in eternal peace.”
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