In Loving Memory of Judith Oiyera Amwayi Odhuno-Were (Mama Yanzi)

In the quiet moments, memories bring both tears and smiles. Your laugh still echoes in the quiet moments. REST IN PEACE JUDITH

For the lives you touched, the joy u brought, the love u shared. U will always be remembered. I dint know u much bt the stories ive heard are indeed beautiful. Your story will live on. Fare thee well Antie❤️ ~hope u Dance with the angels~

Indeed a gem dwelt among us. Your light will continue to shine through all the lives you touched, the love u shared, the laughter that came with u.... The achievements, now Ur song will live on to many. Gone too soon❤️

Jolie, it’s hard to believe you’re gone. For over two decades, you were so much more than a friend to me and my family. I thank God that my wife Gloria introduced us following your longstanding friendship. You and Todd helped us explore and find our footing in Edmonton and the "big sister" I could always share a laugh with or engage in discussing interesting life topics. Thank you for being more than a friend - Your home was always open and your heart was always welcoming—I am super grateful for the time we spent together at dinner just days before you left us- the topics of discussion remain vivid in my mind . I thank God for the gift of your life. Rest in peace, my dear sister and friend. You are loved beyond words. 🕊️

I still remember the joy I felt when we first met at King’s University. There weren’t many international students then, especially from Kenya, and your welcoming smile immediately made me feel at home with you. I cherished our bus rides after class, sharing stories and laughter that always left my heart full of joy. Judith, your kindness, generosity, and radiant spirit touched so many lives, mine included. Seeing your accomplishments over the years never failed to bring me pride and happiness. It’s hard to believe you’re gone, and our heart aches at the thought. When Theo first met you, he remarked what a seemingly warm person you are and I agreed with a lot of enthusiasm. Because you were! Farewell, dear sister. You ran a good race and served faithfully. Todd and the children, may the peace of our Lord surround you and bring comfort, as we hold Judith’s beautiful legacy of love forever in our hearts. Until we meet again. With love and heartfelt sympathy, Gloria and Theo.

To my Uncle Todd, pole sana. God will wipe your tears at this time of great loss. I am still in denial, Amwayi was a great friend in KU and beyond. She welcomed us several times in her cube with nice food and a smile. She even took us home to their place along Jogoo Road. Go well dear friend.

My sincere heartfelt condolences to my brother Todd 💙 and the boys may God be with you in this trying time, peace of God in JESUS mighty name Shalom brother Am praying for you It shall be well God will hold your hand and see you through I know you believe and trust in Him

I’m comforted by the fact that Judith accepted and served our Lord Jesus Christ. She will definitely be missed on earth, however she is in our future. Eternity is real!

Glitter on ✨ ✨ , Judy! You are a true Gem. 💎 💎 Heaven has gained.

Judith Amwayi, as we fondly called you in Pango, what a sudden departure . Just the other month we discussed a lot on international admissions, I did not know the lord had other plans. I can still hear your laughter and the jokes which you so much liked both in Pango and Kenyatta university. This world is indeed not our home. Go well my dear. Till we meet again.

Dear Judith, Saying goodbye so soon feels very unbearably wrong. With each passing day, we will learn how to live with your absence; but we will never let go of the architectural beauty, the memories and the legacy you leave behind. Death is but the next great adventure - Joy in the Lord’s peaceful garden. Your spirit will linger in the wind, in the stars and forever in our hearts. To your broken hearted husband, Todd and your grieving children, Yanzi and Zakwena may you find comfort in knowing that Jolie will always be beside you - living within your hearts, holding a place no one can ever fill and a love no one can ever replace. “The Lord is close to the broken -hearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit “ - Psalm 34:18 Pam Rabut Otieno

Namesake, it’s really sad that you left us so young. We pleaded but all things works for good of those in Christ; He knows why He called you home so soon. Your giggles still echos from the first day I met you, many moons ago as a newbie in Canada. My prayer is for God to truly give your family the strength navigate their future without you. Many loved you but God loved you more. Rest in Peace, Jolie!

Sports has a way of bringing people together. You played hockey to the highest level. I documented the process! Later our paths crossed on Kimathi Street as you identified a life partner. We spoke not long ago and made plans for a visit where l am. We talked about your backyard and passion for growing own veggies. The news of your physical departure has not sunk in. I believe you are watching over Todd, your family and all the lives you touched. It's hard to physically lose someone you have known for years. People change. You did not. The soft smile, encouragement, ability to listen without judging made you a gem. May God give you Todd and the boys strength. Thanks for the enduring memories. Thanks for putting women's hockey on the map. Your pioneer sisters in hockey will agree. It's tough writing this message. May your light continue to shine until we meet again. Go well Judy.

Saying goodbye is the hardest part, but I’m grateful for the time we had and the memories we made. Your spirit will live on in everyone who loved you. Rest in eternal peace dear.

Judith, you have left us too soon but we witness the light of your wonderful life and beautiful soul that you have left behind in memories. May you rest In total Peace. Deep condolences to Todd and the boys - our prayers are for strength, comfort and healing in each moment and the days to come.

Your leaving us at this time came as a shock and a reflection. A shock because somehow I had a conviction that you are supposed to be very much around and a reflection reminding all of us that this world is not our home. Thank you for allowing me into your space, I learned so much from you sister Jolly that came handy in my own life. No one has ever demonstrated simplicity the way you did, one that doesn’t need to be loud, heard or forced but one that walks quietly and its presence can’t be ignored. I have found solece in your favourite songs “the joyous celebration South Africa” as I comfort my soul that I may never see you again in those Christmas parties you used to invite my family to. Thank you for sharing your kindness, elegance, maturity by demonstration. To Todd, Yanzi and Kwena God is the comforter, on behalf of my family we feel your pain, loss but also know it shall be well. It shall be well indeed

Mama boys rest in peace.

Our condolences to Todd and family at this time as you mourn the death of Judith. We are praying that God will continue to bless and take care of you as you prepare for the final journey. Take courage Todd and know we are together in this. God Bless 🙌 🙏

My prayers are with you Todd. May the grace of God sustain you and the kids. Will always keep you and your loved ones in my thoughts and prayers

You will be deeply missed, Jolie. Thank you for the moments we shared and the impact you made on all of us. To Todd, Yanzi, and Zakwena, may God continue to strengthen and comfort you during this very difficult time 🙏

Ours sincere condolences to the Odhuno - Were family. May the Lord grant you comfort and strength

Though not related by blood, she was my aunt by heart. 💖 She shared her love through her delicious recipes, her gardening wisdom, and the kindness she poured into every moment. Her laughter, creativity, and warmth touched all of us, and her legacy of love will continue to grow! just like her beautiful garden. 🌿✨ We will miss her dearly, but her spirit will always bloom in our hearts.

Fare thee well judy your presence wil be greatly missed. To Todd and the boys God peace peace peace

“My heart goes out for you Todd and family for the loss of our dear sister Judith, no words can describe this immense loss.May the Almighty God give you and the family the peace that surpasses human understanding. Isaiah 43:2”When you pass through the waters,I will be with you”. Through it all the Lord is with you!

My sincere heartfelt condolences to our brother Todd odhuno-were and the children Peace of God in JESUS mighty name Shalom

It's hard to comprehend what has happened. I'm lost for words to express my feelings. For the little time I got to know you, I loved you. I exclaimed at the wonderful testimony you hold! I openly told you that your testimony (of the much wonders/ miracles God has since done for/ through you and Todd) needs to be shared on broadcast for many to listen to/watch and believe in our Lord Jesus Christ. Your testimony of your journey of salvation from way back in KU(Nairobi Kenya) to the time I got to know you in Canada inspired me. I loved every testimony you shared. I thought I would see you again for revival meetings and inspiration.May your testimony reach out to many yet (through your husband and children, plus all you inspired in this life). May it stir a revival mood in the hearts of many. May they be drawn closer to God even in your rest. May you rest in peace dear Judy. My prayer is that God grants peace to you, Todd and your beloved sons. May He answer you and strengthen you. He's a very present help in time of trouble. He holds and cares. He will never forsake nor leave you. Shalom. Rossie

Thank you for all the amazing memories of smiles and a very clean and joyful heart that reflected the love of Jesus Christ and the joy of His salvation; right from when I met you at my children’s school at Victory Christian Center to the day before they pronounced you had passed on. Thank you for leaving such big footprints of what it is to live a happy Christian life on earth; always praising God. Thank you for loving our Todd the pure way you did; you gave a great example of true love between two lovely people joined by God Almighty. Farewell Thee well Jolie, see you soon; in God’s beautiful time. In Jesus The Christ’s Mighty Name. Amen.

Let the family receive the comfort that only comes from our Almighty God

Min Yanzi, Your death has shattered me in ways I cannot fully express. You were one in a million, steady, loyal, and the kind of friend I always knew I could count on. You have gone to be with our Lord far too soon, but His ways are not our ways, and His timing remains a mystery we must learn to trust. Even in your passing, you remain special. Unique. Set apart. Thank you for being my childhood friend, and for walking with me through every season of life as we grew, matured, and found our paths. Thank you for the countless moments we shared, trying out small business ideas, praying for breakthroughs, and believing together that God would show up for us. Those memories are treasures I will carry forever. You were the friend who prayed for our hockey tournaments, who reminded us to anchor our confidence in God, who ministered to us quietly yet powerfully. Your faith was steady, your spirit gentle, your presence calming. You lived your testimony without noise, and it touched us all. You have returned to your Maker too soon for us, but right on time for Him. I will miss your calm, your kindness, your unwavering heart. I am forever grateful that God allowed our lives to intertwine. Rest in Peace Osiepna. Go well, Min Yanzi. Your light remains

Dear Judith, We will miss you. Rest in eternal peace till we meet again.

Wisdom hidden behind a soft smile and a big heart. A quiet presence until you scratched beneath the surface, and then you discovered just how alive, how vividly Jolie beamed. She was strict and on point . Kids in bed by 7:30.
 Work given 110%.
 A house always in motion, always cared for. Ask anyone who knew her, and they will remember hearty meals, laughter, and stories that lingered long after the plates were cleared. Jolie loved deeply, served faithfully, and showed up fully. For her family, her friends, and the life she built day by day. Now that you have changed addresses, Jolie, you will be missed dearly, every single piece of these nearly 30 years of shared memories. Your imprint remains in the rhythms you created, in the people you nurtured, and in the love you gave so freely. Fare thee well, sister..
 Fare thee well. To Todd and the boys Romans 8:28 (NIV)
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.” May God’s peace hold you,
His strength sustain you,
 and His love surround you in all the days ahead. Thank you to everyone who has shown such care and compassion to Todd and the family.
Your love has been a true covering.

Judith, knowing you, even for the short time we had to spend together was truly a gift. You will be dearly missed. Todd and boys, I pray for strength, peace, and comfort for you, and that God will gently guide you through the days ahead.

Brother Todd, know that we’re thinking of you and your boys at this difficult time. Sending our love and prayers and ask God to keep you under his wings.

Thank you for all the amazing memories Judy. This is hard to write but it is well.

Thank you for all the amazing memories. You'll be missed

Judy mwena wefwe! They say death is a mistry none of us understand. You crossed our paths, we embraced each other as sisters in a far away land. Thank you for being you ❤️. I wish you lived long to see the boys grow older. You waited for them as you, prayed without ceasing. Please guide Todd and the boys.Pray for them,just like you always did. Farewell my dear, may you rest well 💜 🙏 .Safari njema. Mwenyezi Mungu akutangulie.

If things were different, we'd have spent time together, gotten to know each other more, walked this journey or aunt and niece together, but the Lord in his faithfulness knows best 💖 may your spirit rest in peace

OJ, I am still numb. I shall miss you in every way. You are and remain strong, you are a legend and the Gem in the family. Rest well in heaven my dear.

I am crushed! 😭 Praying to the good Lord to be pleased with my kid-sis & rest her soul in perfect peace 💐

It won't be the same without you! Looking forward to seeing you again on the resurrection day Isaiah 26:19 - "You will live," Rest in peace mama Yanzi

It is hard to image you're no more. But am grateful for the years during our hockey seasons we shared together . You're one of the people God used to mould my life in that season,I see the fruits in my life. To Todd and the boys may God embrace you and comfort you. Only Him sees and understand the pain . He is the answer look up to Him for the days ahead ,they may be stormy at times,but He is the anchor that holds. I can only image what you may be going through. Shalom,Baraka

You made a lasting impact on everyone blessed to know you. I always admired your simplicity, your intentional way of living, your focus, and the deep love you had for God and your family. You were truly special. We loved you dearly, but God loved you more. Rest in peace, my dear friend 🙏🏾.

Words cannot describe the profound sense of loss we are navigating. Your legacy of kindness, warmth and hospitality will forever be cherished. Rest well our friend, you have fought the good fight and you have won the race.