The Kenyan gospel industry is mourning the loss of one of its beloved voices, Beatrice Wairimu Mbugua, popularly known as Betty Bayo, who passed away on Monday, November 10, after a prolonged battle with cancer.

Betty Bayo’s passing was confirmed by her ex-partner, Pastor Victor Kanyari, with whom she had two children. Kanyari took to his social media to share the heartbreaking news, writing: “R.I.P Mama Sky. The mother to my kids.”

The gospel community and fans alike have flooded social media with messages of condolence, paying tribute to the singer’s enduring faith and contribution to gospel music. Among them was Bishop Benson Gathungu Kamau, who revealed that Bayo had been battling advanced blood cancer (leukemia).

“Living a life of praising God and business, the mother of two has been a jovial artist until lately when she was diagnosed with blood cancer at an advanced stage,” he wrote. “She leaves behind a legacy of great contribution to gospel music, friendship, and a soul that maximised its full potential. Rest in Peace, Betty Bayo — cancer will also die one day.”

Inooro TV News Anchor Wakarura Wa Nyutu also shared her grief, recalling a recent visit with the late artist.

“Last Monday I was at your place. We stayed until almost midnight, we laughed, we talked, and I truly hoped you would be well. And now you’re no more,” she wrote.

Betty Bayo rose to fame with her inspirational hit “Eleventh Hour,” a song that touched many for its powerful message of hope and perseverance.

Signs of her health struggles surfaced in August 2025, when she was admitted to hospital and shared an image of herself on social media wearing an oxygen mask. At the time, she attributed her condition to cold weather, not revealing the full extent of her illness.

Her passing marks a heartbreaking loss to Kenya’s gospel fraternity. Beyond her music, Betty Bayo will be remembered for her resilience, warmth, and unwavering faith even in the face of adversity.

Rest in Peace, Betty Bayo. Your music and spirit will live on.