Family and legal fraternity unite in tribute to life of Judy Thongori

Tributes poured in as family, friends, and the legal fraternity united to honour the life and legacy of the accomplished advocate and tireless human rights defender, Judy Thongori.

Thongori, 61, was eulogised as an astute advocate who made remarkable contributions to family law, human rights, social justice, and good governance.

During the memorial service held at Nairobi Chapel along Ngong Road, various speakers reflected on Judy’s profound impact on the lives of her family, friends, clients, and the wider community.

Her husband, John Gikandi, described her as a devoted wife and a loving mother to their two children, calling her a pillar of strength who balanced everything with grace.

“Her professional stature never overshadowed her role as a devoted wife and mother. Judy loved deeply, and family was her everything. Her love extended far beyond our home, and she gave generously to others,” Gikandi said.

He added, “Even as her work garnered public recognition, Judy remained humble, never allowing her achievements to alter her core.”

Recalling their journey together, Gikandi spoke about their early days as a young couple juggling careers, building a home, and raising their children, Eric and Tracey. He noted her unwavering dedication to motherhood and her passion for serving the vulnerable with compassion.

Their 29-year-old son, Eric, mourned his mother as the most supportive, kind, present, loving, respectable, and dignified woman. He reminisced about their bond and how her support helped him navigate his autism and medical journey.

Friend and mentor

“You supported me tirelessly whenever I told you I needed help,” he said.

Thongori’s daughter, Tracey Wairimu, described her mother as her role model, best friend, and mentor.

“Thank you for always pushing me to be my best and for being my rock during hard times. I always knew I could come to you with anything, and together we would find a way forward,” said Wairimu.

The family also praised her culinary and baking skills, which Gikandi said were a source of pride.

Thongori passed away on January 14 after a short illness that required a trip to India on January 8. According to her family, she was diagnosed with a serious illness in December 2024, which progressed rapidly, leading to her untimely demise.

Her brother, John Kogi, remembered her as a strong and resolute person who stood firmly by her beliefs. He credited her with inspiring his love for reading.

Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe, an uncle to Judy’s husband, eulogised her as a symphony of wisdom and warmth.

Chief Justice Martha Koome hailed Judy as a trailblazer whose tireless work and dedication profoundly shaped family law and advanced the rights of women, children, the elderly, and families in Kenya.

“She convinced everyone in her subtle, firm manner that we needed a family division dedicated to families. When I became Chief Justice, she also encouraged the judiciary to create specialised units to handle Sexual and Gender-Based Violence cases,” said Koome.

At the Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA-Kenya), where Judy served, Koome noted that her entry into the legal profession and FIDA marked a turning point.

“She focused on educating people about self-representation, believing that until clients understood and defended their rights, meaningful progress would not be achieved,” Koome added.

Law Society of Kenya President Faith Odhiambo described Judy as a true force of nature, a bastion of family law, a staunch advocate for women’s rights, and a compassionate professional.

“She played an instrumental role in shaping Kenya’s legal framework, particularly through her involvement in the Matrimonial Property Act of 2013 and the Marriage Act of 2014. These landmark pieces of legislation continue to transform Kenyan families’ lives,” said Odhiambo.

Retired Chief Justice David Maraga recalled Judy as a staunch believer in family unity who preferred reconciliation in marital disputes over divorce.

“Judy appeared before me several times when I was in the family division, and I cannot remember a divorce case she prosecuted to the end. She always sought to preserve marriages,” said Maraga.

Thongori will be laid to rest on Thursday in a private ceremony attended only by family members.