Naomi Kadesa (Masala) Kigame

Naomi Kadesa Kigame, 54, returned to her heavenly home on September 10, 2018, at her home in Odenton, MD. Her long and valiant fight with breast cancer came to an end in the loving company of her family. Her strong will to live, unwavering faith in God and prayers saw her journey to a peaceful love-filled ending.

Naomi was born on December 12, 1964 to Ainea and Berita Masala, in Kakamega, Kenya. Naomi was the wife to Herbert Kigame for over 31 years, mother to the late Maxwell, and survived by Arnold, Abigael, Edgar and Sasha (daughter in-law). She was a sister to - Oliver, Sijah, Tabitha, Jamhuri (her twin brother ), John, Violet, Florence, Kiza, and Elijah.  She was Aunt to Shailah, Brian, Millicent, Redempta, Jackyline; Naomy, Zilpher, Kevin, Ian, Josline; Kevin, John, Evaline, Agui, Arnold; Msimbi, Samuel, Michael, Velma; Clare, Brian, Patriciah, Duncun; Laurrent and Dorcas (Dolly); and Sharlene, Leisley, Starlone. She was the great Aunt to Samantha, Yvonne, Michael, Alvan, Whitney, Natasha, Blessing, and Evon.

Naomi attended Nyang’ori Primary School and graduated to Tigoi Girls Secondary School. While there, she met a very special teacher, who guided her through her high school years and was pivotal in Naomi’s journey to become an educator. She joined Shanzu Teachers College graduating in 1987. In the past 23 years, Naomi dedicated her life to education in more than one capacity. During her time as an educator, she not only required the best effort in academics from her students, she served as a confidant who helped them navigate through major life decisions.

Naomi emigrated to the US, and gained a new family in special education in Anne Arundel County Public Schools system at the Ruth Parker Eason School. Although she moved continents, her love for her students never ceased. Naomi vigilantly continued to help her students in Kenya by starting a scholarship program that assisted in their tuition. Her students exemplified the best effort in academics because she served as the fertilizer that assisted their growth. The defining moment for growth for her students was not only in academia, but in character and spirit -- unmeasurable, intangible things. Naomi’s generosity and consistency was in providing not only education, but life lessons to her students transcending beyond the walls of a classroom. Naomi was an educator at heart -- kind, understanding, patient, passionate, and dedicated to the all her students who simply adored her.

In the community she participated in volunteer work to serve as well as educate herself on different issues. It is more than safe to say, her presence touched many people in her life, who will continue to grow and share her story. Above or perhaps guiding all,  Naomi’s involvement with the word of God and her church body was the cornerstone of her life. As a member of the Pentecostal Assembly Church of God (Kenya), she served as a Sunday school teacher, sharing the light of God with others, nurturing future generations. In the United States, she was a member of the Calvary Chapel International Worship Center, where she served as an usher and formed many long-lasting relationships.

Naomi balanced professional life and homemaker with so much grace. She was known for her sweet calm nature and effervescent smile. She loved to walk in the early morning and late evening for reflection and exercise. She always took time to center herself. Because she took this time to recharge, it allowed her to attend and also participate in the extracurricular activities her children were involved in. She knew every corner of their lives. To her children, she was strict and principled, yet often preferred gentle heartfelt words to course-correct. She brought joy to many simply by who she was, and through her selfless extension to those who knew her. With a nurturing heart, Naomi faithfully cared for her family and also her friends who became like family. She enjoyed spending time with friends and family, traveling and cooking. Naomi’s excellence in all things was embodied in her cooking -- her Maandazi (pastry) was soft, rich, and comforting like her soul.

She will be dearly missed by her loved ones, who celebrate her transition to eternal peace.