On July 17, 2024, a deeply touching service was held at JCC Paradise in Thindigua, Kiambu County, to honor the life and legacy of the late Bishop Allan Kiuna. Family, friends, and notable community leaders gathered to celebrate his contributions and the profound impact he had on their lives.
Among the heartfelt tributes, one stood out for its emotional depth and vivid storytelling. Jane Kirubi, sister to Reverend Kathy Kiuna and sister-in-law to Bishop Allan Kiuna, shared a moving reflection that painted a picture of the man behind the title and the love that bound their family together.
Jane began by recalling the early days when Kathy first met Allan. Their budding romance often took them to City Market for fruit salads during Kathy’s lunch breaks from her job on Kenyatta Avenue. Jane humorously described the surprise she felt upon meeting Allan for the first time, a tall and handsome man who had quickly become a significant part of their lives.
“A few dates in, and we got to know each other,” Jane recounted, highlighting how Allan seamlessly integrated into their daily routines, becoming a cherished presence. Her anecdotes provided a glimpse into the simplicity and joy of those early days, filled with laughter and shared moments.
However, Jane also spoke candidly about the challenging times. She recalled a distressing phone call from Kathy during a period when Allan was between jobs and had been involved in a car accident with Kathy’s vehicle. The incident left Kathy questioning the future of their relationship.
Jane’s supportive words during that tough time were pivotal. “Then he used to borrow my sister’s car, and one day my sister called me very distressed, that Allan had been in an accident. I’m like, don’t worry, we will fix the car. But Kathy was like, no, I think I need to cut him loose because it’s been months and the guy doesn’t have a job,” Jane remembered. She persuaded Kathy to give Allan another chance, sensing the potential and genuine love between them.
Jane’s tribute also highlighted Kathy’s unwavering strength and virtue, describing her as a true Proverbs 31 woman. Even in Allan’s final moments, Kathy’s love and dedication never wavered. “My sister is that Proverbs 31 woman. You all don’t understand. When her husband checked out she didn’t want to let go. She told him, no baby don’t go, we have a lot we still have to do. Please hang around. My sister, when I look at you I’m so heartbroken,” Jane shared, her voice heavy with empathy and sorrow.
The service was marked by an outpouring of support from various quarters, including notable leaders. Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and his wife, Pastor Dorcas Rigathi, attended to pay their respects. They lauded Bishop Allan for his significant contributions to the church and the community. Pastor Dorcas offered words of encouragement to Kathy, urging her to remain steadfast in her faith and to continue the work that she and Allan had started together.
In a time of immense grief, the service at JCC Paradise served as a testament to Bishop Allan Kiuna’s enduring legacy and the deep bonds of love and faith that he nurtured. Jane Kirubi’s tribute, filled with personal anecdotes and heartfelt emotion, beautifully encapsulated the essence of the man they all cherished and the indelible mark he left on their lives.