21/04/2026
The late Jael Jeptoo was born on 22nd December 2016. She was the beloved daughter of the late Rev. James Kemei and Mrs. Joan Kemei. She grew up alongside her siblings, Joy Cheruto and Janel Jepkirui, with whom she shared a close and special bond.
Jael was born into a large and loving extended family. She was cherished by the brothers and sisters of her parents (her uncles and aunts), as well as her cousins, with whom she shared a close connection. She was also a beloved granddaughter to her grandparents who loved her dearly.
Jael was a blessing to the family, bringing joy, laughter and light to everyone around her from a very young age.
Christian Life
Jael began a christian journey at a young age. She was baptized at St. Michael’s and All Angels Church, Kimaren by Rev Nicholas Kiprono on 30th September 2018.From that moment ,her life was rooted in faith and she grew up attending Sunday School where she continued faithfully till her passing.
Education
Jael began her schooling in 2020 at St. John’s School Kabongo, where she was a bright and cheerful pupil. She progressed well in her studies and was in Grade 4 at the time of her passing. She had a special love for Mathematics, which was her favorite subject. Jael was loved by her teachers and classmates for her innocence, kindness and joyful spirit.
Talents and Personality
Jael was a lively and joyful child who brought happiness wherever she went. She loved music, enjoyed dancing and her laughter was contagious to everyone around her. She also had a beautiful gift of making friends easily and her warm, loving nature made her cherished by many.
Health
Jael was a healthy and joyful child until she began experiencing frequent headaches in 2025. At first, she was taken to hospital and given painkillers, but the headaches became persistent over time.
In October 2025, further medical investigations were carried out. An MRI scan at Top Hill Hospital revealed a growth in the brain. Further evaluation confirmed that she had a brain tumor, marking the beginning of a difficult health journey.
In November 2025, she was admitted to Reale Hospital due to a blood infection (sepsis), where she received treatment and was later discharged. Following this, she began radiotherapy treatment at Eldoret Hospital, which she bravely underwent for 30 days, travelling from home to hospital for her sessions and back.
Despite the pain and challenges, Jael remained strong, courageous, and full of quiet resilience. In March 2026, she was again admitted to Reale Hospital due to another blood infection and was later discharged to continue recovery at home.
Throughout this entire period, Jael was surrounded by love, care, and constant prayers from her family. She fought bravely through every stage of her illness.
However, on 14th April 2026 at around 4PM, at Living Room Hospital, Jael peacefully went to be with the Lord due to sepsis and respiratory distress associated with a brain tumor following radiotherapy.
Though her journey was painful, she showed strength beyond her years. Her courage and innocence touched many and her memory will forever remain in our hearts.
Tribute from Mum – Mrs. Joan Kemei
My dear daughter Jael,
My heart is broken. You were my precious gift, my joy and my strength. From the day you were born, you filled my life with love, laughter, and purpose. You were such a kind, gentle, and happy child, always smiling and bringing light into our home.
Watching you go through pain was the hardest thing I have ever faced, but you remained so strong and brave. You taught me courage in ways I never imagined. I will miss your voice, your laughter and the way you called me “Mum.”
Though it is painful to let you go, I trust that you are safe in God’s hands, free from pain. You will always live in my heart, my child.
Rest well my angel.
Until we meet again
Tribute from Sisters – Joy and Janel
Dear Jael,
You were not just our sister, you were our best friend. We shared so many moments together laughing, playing, and growing up side by side. It is so hard to believe that you are no longer with us.
We miss your smile, your laughter, and the happiness you brought into our lives every day. You made our home brighter just by being the
