The nation is mourning the untimely passing of celebrated gospel singer Betty Bayo, who succumbed to a private battle with cancer earlier this week. Her death sent shockwaves across Kenya, prompting an outpouring of grief and support from various communities, including her digital fanbase and prominent figures.

In a gesture of unity and remembrance, TikToker Obidan Dela has organized a special candle lighting session to honor Betty Bayo's life. The event, slated for Monday, November 18, 2025, at 2:00 PM, will take place at the Salvation Healing Ministry in Kayole Junction, a church founded by Pastor Victor Kanyari, the father of Bayo’s children. Speaking on TikTok, Obidan, alongside an emotional Pastor Kanyari, extended an invitation to all TikTokers and Kenyans of goodwill, emphasizing the session as a moment for reflection and unity. Obidan also confirmed that Betty Bayo's burial is scheduled for Wednesday, November 20, 2025, in Kiambu.

Following Betty Bayo’s passing, Pastor Victor Kanyari has publicly affirmed his renewed commitment to fatherhood. On Facebook, he shared his dedication to fully embracing his parental role for their children, Sky Victor and Danny. “I have the best bond with my kids. I value them and even do more than expected of me. I know a man is to err, but I promise to be the best dad ever to my kids,” Kanyari vowed, concluding with a powerful message urging other fathers to prioritize their children despite marital separations. He stated his intention to “fill that gap their mother left,” while also acknowledging Betty’s widower, Tash, and his right to remain connected with the children.

Kanyari had previously maintained a co-parenting arrangement with Betty, noting their peaceful collaboration on various issues, including school fees. He recently shared heartwarming videos of him spending time with his son Danny, playing football and echoing sentiments of eternal love: “Nitakupenda milele.” These actions and statements emerged amidst discussions about the children's future, with Kanyari firmly defending his active role as a father and questioning any attempts to alter custody.

In a significant show of support, former president Uhuru Kenyatta has touched many hearts by donating KSh 1 million to assist Betty Bayo’s family with funeral expenses. The generous contribution was channeled through the Kenyatta Foundation. Gospel musician Ben Githae revealed this gesture, adding that the former head of state also requested the names of Betty Bayo’s children to ensure the foundation could sponsor their education. This donation comes as the family actively fundraises for a dignified farewell, and Pastor Victor Kanyari publicly expressed his gratitude to the former president for his timely intervention. Kenyans online lauded Uhuru's goodwill, with many comments reflecting both appreciation for the assistance and recognition of Kanyari's ongoing role as a responsible parent.

Betty Bayo's complicated history with Pastor Victor Kanyari has also resurfaced following her death, triggered by an old interview with presenter Kezia wa Kariuki. In the clip, Betty recounted meeting Kanyari after performing at his church. Their friendship deepened quickly into romance after they confided in each other about personal struggles, particularly Betty's vulnerability in a difficult prior relationship. Their relationship was soon formalized, but cracks began to show. Betty described leaving their home while pregnant due to persistent misunderstandings, returning to her mother’s house. Despite her mother-in-law later bringing her back, the relationship remained strained.

A particularly unsettling incident involved a minor road accident where Betty claimed onlookers accused her of being a home-wrecker, prompting her to flee. Upon returning home, her mother-in-law allegedly accused her of plotting to harm Kanyari, an accusation that further widened the rift between their families. While Kanyari has publicly mourned Betty and insisted on his deep love for her, close family sources indicate he was kept unaware of her illness. This decision, many believe, stems from the long and troubled history that defined their union, a sentiment reflected in online discussions connecting the past drama to Kanyari’s lack of knowledge about her final illness.