It is with deep sorrow and acceptance of God’s will that we announce the sudden and heartbreaking passing of Joy Wangeci Mathenya, who lost her life in a tragic road accident along the Eastern Bypass on Monday, 17th November 2025. A bright student at the University of Nairobi, Joy carried dreams that stretched far beyond her years and dreams she pursued with quiet determination and a heart full of hope.
Wangeci was the beloved daughter of Mr. Cyrus King’ori Mathenya (Principal Utawala Academy) and Mrs. Emily Wambui King’ori (Athi Primary School); a devoted sister of Wilson King’ori Mathenya; she was a step sister of Avery Wilson King’ori Mathenya and Zyrie Joy Wangechi Mathenya, and a gentle, adoring aunt of Shamilla Wambui King’ori.
She was a cherished cousin of Kelvin Kanyuira, Wilson Kingori, Muringe Karanja, Christine Karanja, Dorine Karanja, Evelyn Waruguru, June Nyambura, Esperance Khalisa, Gerald Mahinge, and Max Gitahi, among many others.
She was also a treasured niece and a loyal friend whose presence was a quiet comfort to all who knew her. Wangeci’s personality was her greatest gift. She was gentle yet strong, thoughtful yet joyful, a young woman who carried a rare softness in her heart.
Family and friends are meeting daily for prayers and support at the family home in Utawala (Academy Court) near Mofarm, and at Banta Villa near Magunas Supermarket, Utawala Nairobi starting at 6:00pm, as burial arrangements continue.
The cortege leaves Kenyatta University Funeral Home on Wednesday, 26th November 2025, for the final rites and burial at the family home in Karangia Village, Tetu Sub- County in Nyeri County.
Wangeci, you were a candle in the wind, bright, beautiful, and gone far too soon. Your absence leaves a silence too deep for words, but your memory remains a blessing. Grief never ends, but it changes. it is not a sign of weakness nor a lack of faith, it is simply the price of love.