Kenyan content creator and filmmaker Director Trevor has joined the growing list of celebrities and gospel artists mourning the death of celebrated gospel musician Beatrice Wairimu Mbugua, popularly known as Betty Bayo, who passed away on Monday , November 10, 2025, while undergoing treatment at Kenyatta National Hospital.
Taking to his Instagram stories, Trevor shared a touching tribute expressing disbelief and sorrow over the singer’s passing. He revealed that he and his wife had been planning to invite Bayo to an upcoming December event before receiving the heartbreaking news.
“It was just yesterday my wife was asking me to invite Betty at our upcoming December event. I am deeply saddened by the news of her passing. My heartfelt condolences to family, friends and everyone whose lives she touched. May her soul rest in eternal peace,” he wrote.
Trevor’s message comes as part of an outpouring of grief from Kenya’s entertainment and gospel fraternities. The filmmaker’s heartfelt post reflects the widespread sense of loss felt across the country following Bayo’s passing.
A Nation in Mourning
Director Trevor now joins a host of Kenyan celebrities and gospel artists who have publicly mourned the “Eleventh Hour” hitmaker.
Among those who have paid tribute are Daddy Owen, Bahati, DJ Mo, Evelyn Wanjiru, Kambua, Moji Shortbabaa, Guardian Angel, and Muthee Kiengei, all of whom described her as a humble, faith-driven woman whose music inspired countless lives.
Also read: What is Leukaemia? The Blood Cancer that Claimed Gospel Star Betty Bayo's Life
Daddy Owen praised her as “a vessel of grace who poured her soul into every song,” while Muthee Kiengei reflected on her strength and legacy, noting that she remained positive and faithful even after being diagnosed with Leukemia at an advanced stage.
DJ Mo, a longtime friend, expressed disbelief after spending the day at the hospital before confirming her passing, writing, “A sister for more than 15 years, a friend full of happiness. Bye bye siz Betty Bayo ?.”
The Life, Music, and Legacy of Betty Bayo
Betty Bayo, whose real name was Beatrice Wairimu Mbugua, was a celebrated Kikuyu gospel singer and businesswoman known for her powerful vocals and inspiring lyrics. She rose to fame after releasing her breakout song “Eleventh Hour”, which became one of Kenya’s most beloved gospel anthems.
Initially hesitant to record in Kikuyu, Bayo’s decision to embrace vernacular music became a turning point in her career. The success of “Eleventh Hour” made her a household name and led to the release of other hit tracks including “Thiiri,” “Busy Busy,” and “Uira.”
Her uplifting music earned her over 20 million YouTube views, countless performances, and a loyal fan base that admired her sincerity and faith. Beyond music, she was a devoted mother of two and an entrepreneur, balancing her personal life with ministry and business.
According to reports, Bayo had been battling Leukemia for a while before her death. Her resilience and faith throughout her illness inspired many within the gospel fraternity, who have described her as a symbol of hope and unwavering devotion.
Her passing marks a major loss for Kenya’s gospel community — a void deeply felt by fans, friends, and fellow artists alike.
Director Trevor’s emotional tribute underscores the widespread heartbreak across the entertainment industry, as Kenya continues to celebrate the life of a woman whose songs brought comfort, joy, and inspiration to millions.
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