The late David Thuku
By Timothy Oiro
[Nairobi Campus: Thur, October 30, 2025] The Daystar University united in grief to pay their last respects to a long-serving staff and faculty member, the late Mr. David Kariuki Thuku, who passed on Friday October 24, 2025.
At the time of his demise, the former Dean of Students was faculty member in the School of Missions and Theology Department of Theology & Pastoral Studies.
At a memorial service held at the Nairobi Campus DAC Auditorium, members of the University community, including staff, students, faculty, alumni and former staff, brought an outpouring of tributes as they mourned a man known for his unwavering faith, humility and a sense of humor.
In attendance was the Ag. DVC Academic, Research and Student Affairs (ARSA), Prof. Samuel Muriithi, the DVC Finance Administration and Planning (FAP), Prof. Muturi Wachira, the Dean of Students, Rev. Mutinda Musyimi, the University Chaplain, Rev. J. Miano Weche, the Director School of Mission and Theology, Prof. Bernard Boyo, the Dean School of Arts and Social Sciences, Dr. Josephine Munyao, the HOD, Department of Theology and Pastoral Studies, Rev. Dr. Perminus Mburu, Faculty, staff, family members, friends and students.
A somber mood filled the air as the Daystar Christian Fellowship (DCF) led worship. Moderating the service, the Deputy Chaplain Rev. Susan Siole, welcomed mourners and urged everyone to strengthen one another during this season of grief. She further moderated the service, giving different speakers turns to pay their tributes.
- Betty, a student from the School of Arts and Social Sciences remembered Mr. Thuku as a man full of God’s presence, noting how his lectures always reflected God’s character.
- The DUSA President Mr. Lewis Sekento affirmed that Mr. Thuku devoted his life to mentoring students. “His impact in this community will be felt for many years to come.”
- The Dean of Students Rev. Mutinda Musyimi described Mr. Thuku as a gentleman who depicted God’s character, walked with integrity and steadfast faith. “Mr. Thuku was a man of unwavering faith and steadfast conviction, whose leadership was characterized by a lot of wisdom and integrity.”
- Mrs. Margaret Munene fondly recalled her earliest encounter with Mr. Thuku before his tenure at Daystar University. She first met David in a Bible study when she was still in her youth. She described Mr. Thuku as generous and a kind-hearted person who would host them for Bible study sessions. She particularly remembered the nice Kenyan tea he brewed for them, describing him as a man always committed to his work and who never compromised his faith. “David Kariuki Thuku was a humble godly man who lived what he taught, and whose mode of prayer had a way of speaking to people’s hearts. My prayer is that God raises many other men like him.”
- The Director, School of Mission and Theology, Prof. Bernard Boyo eulogized the late Mr. Thuku as a humble peacemaker who never allowed anger to overshadow him. “David was a man of peace who, in his quiet way and smile, never showed emotions. He also acknowledged that Mr. Thuku was a man of strong faith in all his dealings. “Faith was not part of his life but was his life; he demonstrated it in every way.”
- Dr. Josephine Munyao recalled her earliest encounter with Mr. Thuku in 2007 when she was posted to the Student Development office where she worked with him for six years. She described Mr. Thuku as a person who was more of works rather than mere talk, and above all, a mentor. “Mr. Thuku was soft-spoken and did not teach by words but rather through modeling and influence”. She noted that Mr. Thuku was a true disciple of Christ grounded in biblical discipline.
- Prof. Muturi Wachira described the late Mr. Thuku as one whose integrity and humility stood out for him. “I knew him as a preacher. Mr. David Thuku’s humility and integrity spoke for him.
- Prof. Samuel Muriithi highlighted key values which can be emulated from Mr. Thuku’s life, including humility, commitment and availability. “Let us learn and emulate his character and his peacefulness.”
The retired Elder of the Presbyterian Church of East Africa (PCEA) was born on 30th May 1957. He was married to Mrs. Irene Wangui. Elder Thuku went to be with the Lord on 24th October 2025.
Rest in peace, retired elder David Kariuki Thuku. May your legacy live on.
