The event, held just a day before her burial, turned into a powerful moment of remembrance for a woman whose music and personality greatly impacted Kenya’s gospel industry.
Betty Bayo died on November 10 after a quiet battle with leukaemia. Her death shocked many because she had kept her illness private, choosing to fight quietly while continuing to care for her family and serve in ministry.
Betty Bayo died on November 10 after a quiet battle with leukaemia. Her death shocked many because she had kept her illness private, choosing to fight quietly while continuing to care for her family and serve in ministry.
Even close friends said they had no idea the singer was seriously ill, and many fans only learned about her struggle after her passing.
As darkness fell over her Mugumo Estate home, dozens of people streamed into the compound carrying candles.
As darkness fell over her Mugumo Estate home, dozens of people streamed into the compound carrying candles.
They arranged the candles on the ground to spell out her name, “BETTY,” creating a beautiful glow that symbolized the light she had brought into many lives.
Gospel songs played softly in the background, with some of her own hits reminding mourners of her unique voice and message.
Her husband, Hiram Gitau, popularly known as Tash, went live on TikTok to show Kenyans what was happening at the vigil.
Her husband, Hiram Gitau, popularly known as Tash, went live on TikTok to show Kenyans what was happening at the vigil.
In the video, people could be seen singing, comforting one another, and sharing memories of the late artiste.
Bayo’s children also walked in with candles, joining the crowd as they placed their lights next to their mother’s name. The emotional moment touched many viewers who were following the livestream online.
Friends who attended described the vigil as peaceful, emotional, and full of love. They said it showed just how deeply Betty was cared for, not only by family but also by fellow artistes, neighbours, and fans who interacted with her work over the years.
Kenyans watching the vigil online expressed their condolences and praised the strength of the family. Many said they were moved by how bravely Betty’s children carried themselves during such a difficult moment.
Messages from TikTok viewers included:
“My condolences to the Tash family, all shall be well.”
“May God comfort this family as they prepare to lay Betty to rest.”
“The kids are very strong. May God continue being their strength.”
“Tash, may God give you wisdom and courage as you raise Betty’s children.”
The overwhelming support showed how beloved Betty was, not only as a musician but also as a mother and friend.
Betty Bayo will be laid to rest at her Mugumo Estate compound. Her husband and best friend, Shiro wa GP, visited the location earlier to supervise the burial space and ensure everything was ready.
In preparation for the funeral, organisers have also been setting up Ndumberi Stadium, where part of the memorial activities will take place. Large tents and seating areas were seen being arranged ahead of the ceremony.
The singer’s family recently set the burial budget at KSh 5 million, a figure that triggered mixed reactions online.
Friends who attended described the vigil as peaceful, emotional, and full of love. They said it showed just how deeply Betty was cared for, not only by family but also by fellow artistes, neighbours, and fans who interacted with her work over the years.
Kenyans watching the vigil online expressed their condolences and praised the strength of the family. Many said they were moved by how bravely Betty’s children carried themselves during such a difficult moment.
Messages from TikTok viewers included:
“My condolences to the Tash family, all shall be well.”
“May God comfort this family as they prepare to lay Betty to rest.”
“The kids are very strong. May God continue being their strength.”
“Tash, may God give you wisdom and courage as you raise Betty’s children.”
The overwhelming support showed how beloved Betty was, not only as a musician but also as a mother and friend.
Betty Bayo will be laid to rest at her Mugumo Estate compound. Her husband and best friend, Shiro wa GP, visited the location earlier to supervise the burial space and ensure everything was ready.
In preparation for the funeral, organisers have also been setting up Ndumberi Stadium, where part of the memorial activities will take place. Large tents and seating areas were seen being arranged ahead of the ceremony.
The singer’s family recently set the burial budget at KSh 5 million, a figure that triggered mixed reactions online.
Some Kenyans felt the budget was too high, while others argued that a public figure of Betty’s influence deserved a dignified farewell.
In past interviews, gospel singer Ben Githae, one of Betty’s close friends, shared that he only noticed something was wrong when Betty began arriving late for meetings and seemed unusually tired.
In past interviews, gospel singer Ben Githae, one of Betty’s close friends, shared that he only noticed something was wrong when Betty began arriving late for meetings and seemed unusually tired.
He recalled a day when she attended a chama gathering and slept quietly in a corner, something that was out of character for her.
Her silence about her health left many friends heartbroken, but they respected her choice to keep her battle private.
Even in death, Betty Bayo continues to inspire. Her music, her love for people, and her dedication to her family have left a lasting mark.
Her silence about her health left many friends heartbroken, but they respected her choice to keep her battle private.
Even in death, Betty Bayo continues to inspire. Her music, her love for people, and her dedication to her family have left a lasting mark.
