The country’s first woman Territorial Commander of the Salvation Army Church has died.
Commissioner Margaret Siamoya died on March 15, 2023, at Mediheal hospital Eldoret.
According to church sources, the prelate had just returned to the country from her matrimonial home in Zambia, where she was attending her daughter’s wedding.
She landed on March 5 and travelled to Kakamega the next day, arriving in the evening.
She was taken to the hospital early on March 7 after complaining of acidity and difficulty breathing, and she was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit for eight days.
According to the Sunday Standard, she has been in and out of the hospital since October of last year.
Siamoya has been a member of the church since 1986, rising to the position of Commissioner.
After serving in Kenya East for four years, she was transferred by the General of The Salvation Army to lead The Salvation Army Church in Western Kenya region on January 1, 2022.
The requiem mass was held on Saturday, March 25, at the Kenya West Citadel headquarters in Kakamega, along the Kakamega-Kisumu road.
The body will be taken to the Montezuma funeral home in Nairobi before being airlifted to Zambia on Monday night.
In Zambia, a funeral service and burial rites will be held on March 29, 2023.
Commissioner Siamoya was widowed many years ago and is survived by four children: Catherine, Gloria, Blessing, and Maria.
General Brian Peddle, the church’s global leader, described her as a selfless servant who has stood the test of time to serve humanity.
‘‘My heart is mixed with sadness and joy as I celebrate the life of Commissioner Margaret Siamoya. Her leadership as a strong woman of Africa stands out and is valued by all who knew her. Well done, good and faithful servant,” Peddle said.
Colonel Daniel Kiama, Kenya East Territorial Commander, stated that her legacy will continue to inspire and uplift all who knew her during her service in the country.
‘‘Her unwavering contributions to Kenya East Territory will always be remembered. Commissioner Siamoya’s kindness, compassion, and dedication to serving others touched the lives of many,’’ Kiama said.
