Veteran actor Matayo Keya, widely known as Alphonse Makokha’s wife, Purity Wambui was laid to rest on Thursday at Lang’ata Cemetery.
According to Wambui’s eulogy, the two got married in 1993 and were blessed with four daughters, namely Maline, Sharlet, Shanice and Malia.
The four mourned their beloved mother with each one of them expressing their love in emotional tributes contained in the eulogy.
“Mama, I miss you so much. Thank you for always being there for us and teaching us to be strong. I love you,” Maline remembered her mother.
On the other hand, Sharlet mourned her mother saying, “Rest in peace, mummy. Yes, we are sad because you left us, but we are also happy that you are resting and no longer in pain. I love you.”
Shanice reflected on life lessons that her late mother taught her and core values that she instilled in her when she was still alive.
“Mama, you were my rock. You showed me the meaning of being brave, no-nonsense and a go-getter. I promise to take care of Dad and Puuh just like you did. I will always love you, Wambire,” she said.
In her tributez Malia said, “I miss playing with you. Thank you for the hugs and great stories. I love you so much and will always remember you.”
Wambui passed away on June 1, 2024 after a long struggle with breast cancer.
This comes a few days after Makokha spoke about his wife’s death, detailing her last moments in an emotional tribute.
“I was going to work. I had left my daughter and told her to take care of her mother while I went to earn a living,” he said in an interview with Tuko.
Makokha also disclosed how Wambui’s death has affected their children, especially their youngest who is yet to comprehend what is happening.
“It has hit and affected them. They are in disbelief. The youngest, who is 11 years asks where mum is. I have to lie and say she is in Heaven. She has gone to be with the Lord. I have to counsel the little one. It is painful, sad and hard,” he disclosed.
Makokha also relived the moment he was informed of his wife’s death by his fellow actor, Ondiek Nyuka Kwota, whom is a close friend of the family.
“I cried for about two hours. I was the one driving, so he (Ondiek) took the wheel and drove. I said since it had happened, we should continue the journey
“I went to work as usual. That night, we were supposed to sleep, but I didn’t even sleep; I had to go back. God gave me strength, and I took them home safely, and I also got home safely,” he recalled.
