A family photograph shared by renowned psychiatrist Prof Lukoye Atwoli has taken on a different meaning following the death of his wife, Maureen Nyadida-Lukoye.
The photograph showed Lukoye with Maureen and their four sons during what appeared to be a quiet family moment.
At the time, it was simply a glimpse into the private life of a family that had largely stayed away from the public spotlight. Following Maureen's death, however, the image has drawn renewed attention from Kenyans mourning alongside the family.
A family of six
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Lukoye and Maureen had been married for more than two decades and raised four sons together.
An earlier interview with Parents Africa revealed that their children were Anyanje, Alubala, Yimbo and Atwoli Jr. At the time of the interview, the boys were aged 16, 14, 10 and seven respectively.
“We don’t spank our children. We resort to other forms of punishment such as grounding,” Maureen said.
Maureen's battle with cancer
Maureen had previously spoken about her experience with breast cancer.
According to Parents Africa, she discovered a lump in her right breast in 2015 while breastfeeding her youngest child. After tests confirmed cancer, she underwent a mastectomy.
She credited her husband with supporting her through treatment.
“During this time, my husband was my main anchor,” Maureen said.
The couple also described the difficulty of explaining her illness to their children and helping them understand what was happening.
Lukoye confirms his wife's death.
Lukoye confirmed Maureen's death on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, through a brief social media message.
His words reflected the difficulty of losing a partner with whom he had shared more than 20 years of marriage.
“I will struggle to deal with this. So long, my dear. So long,” he wrote.
Kenyans remember the family.
Noel Nekesa said:
"Mungu awalinde."
Elizabeth Kiptoo said:
"Woiye, so sorry. May God comfort them."
Mary Atieno wrote:
"May God give them peace and comfort."
Allan Kemboi said:
"Mungu awaonekanie."
