Kelvin Mwikya Philemon Ministries - ForeverMissed.com Online Memorials

"For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain."
Phillipians 1:21

This memorial website was created in memory of our loved one, Kelvin Mwikya - Philemon Ministries. We will remember him forever.

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July 13, 2021

This is such sad news. I have met many inspiring people in my life and, without doubt, Kevin was in the top tier. His personal story was extraordinary and out of his pain of long term imprisonment he turned outwards and decided to respond to the suffering he witnessed and serve others. That level of generosity of spirit in the face of such adversity is a rare thing and with it he attracted others to support him and believe in what he was doing. He touched the lives of so many people in Kenya and beyond. It is trite say, but entirely true in this case that it was a huge privilege to have known him. His loss is devastating but it is also an opportunity to celebrate a life well lived, a man full of passion and love for his fellow human beings and a reminder that we must all do better in following his example. Go well Kevin, you will be missed.

July 10, 2021

so unbelievable. "Whatsoever you do to the least of my brothers, you do unto me..." Kevin gave his all to the down trodden. I first met kevin many years ago at the christian lawyers offices. Together with him we visited almost all prisons in Nairobi and elsewhere. I would never have known how a prison looked like inside if it wasn't for him. And I reminisce at the numbers of remandees I represented for free. That was good experience for me as a young lawyer then. The talks we gave in prison, telling them how to represent themselves etc. I remember going with other volunteers and Kevin to various prisons. I remember visiting him and his wife. I even represented his in law in a criminal matter in makindu where she was falsely charged with causing disturbance. And I remember the half way house somewhere in waithaka.. I still have a necklace I bought from one of the ladies there. Kevin and I have so much unfinished business. At some point he wanted me to join his board, he also wanted us to have a legal department in his organisation but we never got to implement all this. The last time we talked this year it was just catching up. If it wasn't for Kamotho's facebook post I'd never have known he is no more. I wish I visited him, I wish. Sad. I celebrate you as a hero. You did a lot. RIP my dear friend. To Patricia and family take heart.

July 10, 2021

The unsung heroes, whose dream we should not let die - The Standard

https://www.standardmedia.co.ke/opinion/article/2001417879/the-unsung-heroes-whose-dream-we-should-not-let-die

July 9, 2021

Its a very sad moment for Kelvin family to loss a loved one at a critical moment as this. My condolences to you and entire Philemon community.
We at the Kenya Prisons Service , especially in the directorate of Welfare-we are very saddened by the loss of a great man and rehabilitator like Kelvin.
May the entire family , friends and relatives be comforted at a time of this big loss.
May God's mercies take control and be with you always.

July 9, 2021

Kelvin,fare thee well..Im still in denial that you are no more.I have been your personal and family doctor for the longest time.you trusted me with your life ,,it still hurts that you took your last breath in my arms...I will forever miss you,I celebrate you for the many lives you impacted positively,,

July 9, 2021

Kelvin was a true inspiration. I am grateful for the times we spent together in Kenya and South Africa. His life impacted thousands of people but he did not win big awards or receive international attention. He did not seek it. His heart was always focused on those overlooked by society. I learned so much from Kelvin, not only from his work but his spirit. In particular I remember spending a day with him visiting women he was supporting in Kibera. He never lost sight of the individual even as he focused on system change. Kelvin you will be truly missed. Thoughts and love with Patricia and the family. Rest in power Kelvin, we will try and live by your example.

July 9, 2021

When Reuben Kigame called in in 2001 to assist the visitor who needed help on proposal writing, my friendship with Kelvin started. We went ahead to do a proposal to Mustard Seed Foundation (which was not successful), but the safaricom was. The benefit from the funding received from Safaricom was handy as we hosted the Attorney General from the USA. I worked in the background and shortly on the board. When I reconnected with Kelvin in 2019, he asked me to rejoin the team. I asked for more time to clear my studies. So sad he left before I told him my current status. Kelvin was so humble and straight forward. He would not shy to ask you to mediate if he felt things were not working properly. Kelvin's story and his mission to reduce recidivism has left a clear mark. I remember him asking me to support him as we made Philemon's position to The Madoka Commission. He was respected in government even serving on the Mercy commission. We will miss you. May the Lord watch over Patricia and the kids. May the good work started by Kelvin continue impacting lives.

July 9, 2021

Kamunzyu as I have always known you since childhood rest in eternal peace. You were very obedient and focused young boy during our primary schooling. Life scattered us in different directions only to meet again after more than 30yrs when alot had happened but you weren't bitter at all. Together we mobilized resources and constructed a dormitory for our former primary school. You have done so much touching the lifes of many prisoners not forgetting the privilege of addressing UK parliament. Shine on your way Kamunzyu till we meet again. To the family may God's grace be sufficient during this trying moment.

July 9, 2021

What an honour to have spent some time with Kelvin - he was an amazing visionary and pioneer. I learned so much from him and from being involved with supporting Philemon's work from the UK. Kelvin was living proof of how God can transform lives - a story I heard him share very powerfully not only in prisons in Kenya, but also in a packed prison chapel in London where those listening were amazed to hear him share how he had once been in their situation and now was advising the Kenyan government on prisons. He worked tirelessly, boldly, single-mindedly, selflessly to serve others and to see people who had spent time in prison restored to their families and communities. I learned from his dedication and his unswerving faith, and through Philemon I also met several other people who have inspired me and played a significant role in my life in different ways. I am so sorry to hear of Kelvin's passing - my heart goes out to Patricia and their family, and to all who will be grieving and who will be missing Kelvin's support and mentorship in their lives.

July 8, 2021

I first met Kelvin when I came to audit Philemon Ministries as an external auditor from Thomas and Associates in 2006, a simple & friendly man he was, a man after God's heart. We closely worked together and became close family friends. It's hard to believe that you are gone brother we ll forever remember you and the impact you caused in our lives...go well brother.

July 8, 2021

Kelvin, my first boss, its hard to imagine you gone. That you trusted a fresh faced graduate to develop programes for Philemon Foundation still amazes and humbles me. You were my destiny connector. The skills, networks and experience garnered for the 2 years I had the privilege of serving as program officer have and continue to serve me well. Philemon spoilt me for life...passion has been the core of all I find to do. My stand out memory of many is conceptualising and launching The Women Empowerment program. The fact that the ladies we trained and empowered to date still run their businesses blows mind. Goes to show how little is much in the right hands.

Praying for God's peace and comfort for Patricia, Mumo and Mwende.

Shine on Kelvin, your legacy we will keep in our hearts and minds forever.

The thousands of prisoners you touched and shaped their lives shall ensure your name is forever mentioned. Shine on.

Rest in power Kelvin Mwikya Kamunzyu.

July 8, 2021

When you met Kelvin, you quickly felt at ease. And yet here was a guy who had rubbed shoulders with the high and mighty in this country especially in the Government & Prison department a remarkable feat considering it all started when he spent time in jail at the Athi River GK prison.

See, Kelvin didnt grow bitter while doing his time, he met Jesus and his life changed for eternity. When it came to Ministry to the inmates he wore his heart on his sleeve.

He visited all the prisons in this country and beyond. He shared all he had and more. Most importantly he shared his story and pointed many to Christ.

I'll be forever grateful that I met a man who was comfortable behind the scenes, bold in living out his faith, embarrassed when singled out for praise, a suave political commentator and a brother with a great sense of humour.

I will miss you my brother. Enjoy the presence of the master you served with all your heart. Till we meet again.

July 8, 2021

Many years ago I was given favor in the Prison system in the state of Texas to travel and share the gospel with thousands of men and women locked up. Through the years of traveling to the prisons the field grew larger and extended to other states and countries and yes Kenya. Before I tell you of a night in the upper room in Kenya I'd like to in short share this that dates back about 20 years ago,
I was leading a few hundred volunteers in the prison system and was feeling thin and run down, The Lord had spoken to me to go to the end of the street where there was an old pastors wife that was an intercessor. So I went to the house knocked on the door and this little lady came to the door and I told her that I led a prison ministry and needed prayer she turned around and walked away, well I followed her into the house where she sat down in a chair so I sat about 10 feet away and looked at her and fell to the ground and crawled over to her chair and took a hold of her hand and I believe maybe I entered the 3rd heavens as I prayed, as the prayer came to an end I returned to the seat across the room , looked at her , we both got up and she walked me to the door , and this is the kicker, she never spoke a word ! I got to share in the anointing that was on her Life , Wow !!
Wow back to Kenya , getting picked up at the airport and receiving all that God had supplied for us was awesome. We drove to a Catholic Convent and that night Kelvin and I sat in an upper room and again the Holy Spirit took us maybe to the 3rd heavens only this time we both shared in the Fathers love.

July 8, 2021

Kelvin was an extraordinary man. I met him when he walked into the Kenyan Christian Lawyers Fellowship office one day. His story blew me away. He was a man who saw God turn his suffering, unjust imprisonment, for good. In prison, he met God. In prison, he was called to help prisoners. When he was released he used his carpentry skills to earn money to buy toilet paper. He took it back into prison, so prisoners would not use donated Bibles instead. His humble service won him the trust of prison authorities and he gained me, a white man, access, and many a free soda drank with prison officers. We painted volleyball courts and played volleyball with inmates. We played football. We sang. We preached. I saw a lot of people come to faith through his ministry; stand up and receive Jesus as he shared his testimony. They became free even though they were behind bars. I can still see some of their joyful tears in my mind's eye. He pioneered a halfway home. He gave me and many others a glimpse into the heart of God. His compassion for the downtrodden. He inspired me and others to set up the charity Philemon UK when I returned from working with him and KCLF for 6 months. I look back on many fond memories. How we laughed when we turned at soaked to the skin at Shimo for a prison visit. I wished I'd kept better contact in the years since but am grateful we had some good interactions in the last 6 months. We are praying for his precious family, and the continuation of the great work he pioneered. Thank you God for this mighty man, and the privilege to know him!

July 8, 2021

Kevin was my friend. Its now that he’s gone that I realise that played a critical role in my life; keeping me anchored on what is important in life. Kelvin was passionate about his life’s mission. Looking out for “the least of these” that had met the misfortune justly or otherwise to get into our penal system. He loved the outwardly unloveable with an amazing sincerity. He was the epitome of humility and yet could be a lion if he felt the ministry was umder threat. He was selfless sharing the little he had with those under his care. Bur for all the strength he was also an intensely vulnrtable person courtesy of his long stint in jail. I could go on and on. He left a mark. In my life. In many lives. Most of all in the lives of those he touched thru Philemon.

July 8, 2021

https://www.standardmedia.co.ke/editorial/article/2001287943/how-to-make-prisoners-life-better

July 8, 2021

KELVIN, A MAN AFTER GOD’S HEART

The Lord says,”… whenever you visit those in prison you do it for me.” Kelvin did this and more. He gave renewed hope and a new lease of life to brothers and sisters in prison through the Malachi Dads and Hannah’s Gift programs.

He chose to see the good in the young men and young women in conflict with the law. He gave them a 2nd chance at life through schooling and reconciling them with their families.

Thank you our brother Kelvin for giving your all. Thank you for being the hands and feet of the Lord. Thank you for hearing the voice of God and accepting to be sent. Thank you for touching lives.

The Lord has said to you, “ welcome home my good and faithful servant.” So long my brother. Go well. Till we meet again at Jesus’ feet. Blessed be the name of the Lord.

July 8, 2021

Rest in Peace Kevin. Your legacy speaks volumes on the person you were. May the candles that you lit shine forever.

July 8, 2021

The pain of Kelvin's loss is deep and unfathomable. We invite you all to join us in keeping his legacy alive by sharing your memories on this platform. His passion for religious guidance, genuine concern for the oppressed in society, kindness, honesty and most of all unconditional love for all those who crossed his path will forever be cherised.

Feel free to add your sentiments, memories, pictures, videos, thoughts and stories for will keep Kelvin's dream alive.

Goodbye Kelvin, It is well.

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July 13, 2021

July 10, 2021

The unsung heroes, whose dream we should not let die - The Standard

https://www.standardmedia.co.ke/opinion/article/2001417879/the-unsung-heroes-whose-dream-we-should-not-let-die

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His Life

July 8, 2021

The pain of losing Kelvin is deep an unfathomable, we invite you all in keeping his legacy alive by sharing your memories on this platform. His passion for religious guidance, genuine concern for the oppressed in society, kindness, honesty and most of all unconditional love for all those who crossed his path especiallythose who may have been misunderstood, will forever be cherished.

Feel free to add your sentiments, memories, pictures, videos, thoughts and stories for these will keep Kelvin's dream alive.

Kelvin Kamunzyu Mwikya, Founder of Philemon Ministries/Trust was a great believer in Jesus Christ. His transformation in life was in one of the most unfamiliar places to many of us: he was serving his sentence of 13years imprisonment for a crime he never committed. This exposure to first hand injustice provided the path for his vision where he purposed to inspire prisoners and especially the juveniles to pick up their resolve and actualize their full potential through Christ the ultimate giver and protector. He worked to intergrate them back in society. Kelvin gave his all and more. Your work through every person you touched and their wider families and community continue to inspire us everyday.

Kelvin kept the vision of Philemon Ministries alive. He visited all the prisons in this country and beyond. He rubbed shoulders with the high and mighty in government particularly in prison department, all in pursuit for justice and a second chance for offenders. His humility and servant leadership endered him to many. Though gone too soon, his legacy lives on.

Till we meet again brother, it is well.

KELVIN-EVER PATIENT

July 9, 2021

I met Kelvin when he came to get a letter to allow him visit Langata Maximum Prison many years ago-around 1995. He always wanted things done in the right way, he never wanted to visit any station without proper arrangement. He was always optimistic that the authority letter or signal would reach in good time before he visits. If he does not find any one to write it ,he would be very patient and wait
My first visit to his half-way house at Waithaka was when Kelvin had offered to reintegrate two ex-inmates from Langata who were the very first to graduate from his half-way house. The two got settled back into the community successfully.
Ever smiling whatever the circumstance, -happy or disappointed .i will always remember his smiling face.
Bye,bye Kelvin.

You may not be aware There was a time Kelvin and me were members of Nairobi chapel at Mamlaka road H

July 9, 2021

Not many maybe aware of this. There was a time Kelvin and me were members of Nairobi chapel at Mamlaka road

He had shared his testimony there of being in prison in or around 1998.

Then one day, I think it was end of 2004 he requested help from me on the computer

That day I saw his prisons entry permit (and to make a long story short) Seeing that I requested him to take me to PHQ to see if I can do that ministry. After a long discussion, back and forth he did so in early 2005 and I was interviewed by Mrs. Elizabeth Mwangangi the then person who was 8n charge of chaplaincy in the PHQ in place of Ven Canon Johnson Gatumu. Being convinced of my desire she gave me my first permit in the early 2005, (17 years) thanks to Kelvin. God bless his soul. Since then God has enabled me to serve many prisons in Kenya

I will miss a sincere and genuine coworker

Kevin a young man with a big dream

July 8, 2021

I met Kevin in 1989 when he was serving a prison term in Athiriver prison. He was quiet but very focused. He loved God and forever thinking of assisting others after release. When he came out of prison he visited my office in 2004 and shared a dream of starting anNGO to support exprisoners. With his meager monies he started an half way in Dagorreti. He put a smile on my face because I had a place to refer ex prisoners who had nowhere to go. Kevin was very focused and could go out of his way to advocate for the well being of people coming out of prison. He was a member of the drafters of the after care policy because he felt this people had been Left out of public support. Kevin respected me and always consulted me on everything he wanted to do. Am writing this in pain because it's very hard for me to accept his departure. When he started his half Way house in kibwezi it was a dream come true. We have our borstal boys in kibwezi I hope that his team upholds his dream of making sure the halfway house achieves his dream Kevin has Left too soon . I will miss him . However I have so many good things I remember him for . May his soul rest in peace.

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