Life Story
EARLY LIFE
Joseph Kibet Sambai (Senior) was born on 21 October 1967 in Nandi County. He was the first-born child of the late Barnaba Sambai Tendenei and Philomena Tendenei of Kapsing’ari Kaptuigong Family. Grandson to the Late Kipkeino Terer of Kapsing’ari Kapsirikwa and to the Late Kipsaina Ruto of Kaptongoi Family Nandi County.
He was a beloved brother to Philip Sambai, Ambrose Sambai, Samson Kering, Henry Sambai, Jonah Sambai, Eusilah Tendenei, Mathew Kirwa, Daniel Koniah, Pius Sambai, and Nicholas Sambai
He was also a cherished brother-in-law to Rebecca Sambai, Sally Sambai, Rebecca Kering, Ledisha Sambai, Salome Sambai, Eliud Busienei, Lilian Sambai, Mobister Koniah, and Elijoy Sambai.
FAMILY AND MARRIAGE
Joseph Sambai married to Dorcas Chepkogei on 3 January 1992 in a Mass celebrated by Rev. Fr. Henry Simaru of Majengo Parish. He was son-in-law to Mr and Mrs Philip Tenai of Kaptingiya (Kapsoo family).
They were blessed with six children: Vincent Kimutai Bett, Francis Kibiwot Bett, Dominic Kipkirui, Mercy Cherop Sambai, Caleb Kipkorir Sambai and Brian Kipruto Sambai.
He was a loving grandfather to Malia Rita Chemeli, Lisa Marie Chepkoech. Devoted father-in-law to Mercy Jerop Sulo. He was Bamwai to Mr and Mrs Clr David Sulo
RELIGION
Joseph Sambai was a devoted member of the St Josph the Worker Catholic Church, Kapyemit Parish. He remained an active member of Kapyemit Parish Catholic Church (OSA), where he faithfully participated in the Catholic Men Association (CMA). He was baptized on 19/3/1968 By Fr J Gasser at Kaiboi Parish and later received the Sacrament of Confirmation on 12/10/1980 at Majengo Parish.
EDUCATION
Joseph began his primary studies at Kapsaos Primary School in Eldoret in 1973 and later on in 1979 he transferred to Kapyemit Primary School in Eldoret where he was able to sit for his KCPE examinations. After completion of primary education he joined Chemuswa Secondary School in Nandi County where he attended Form One and Form Two. He later on transferred to 64 Secondary School in Eldoret where he sat for his KCSE completing his Secondary Education.
Professional Journey
In 1990, Senior trained as a professional driver at Modia Driving School, marking the beginning of his long and dedicated career in transport and public service.
1990: Joseph began his employment journey at Shell Petrol Station in Eldoret. Later that same year, he was transferred to BP Petrol Station.
1991-1992: Worked in the Eldoret Matatu sector under Route M23, now known as Maili Nne Main Stage Sacco.
1993-1994: Employed by Kasim as a hide-and-skins transporter.
1996-1999: Employed by KN SHAH Wholesalers.
2000-2003: Served as the personal driver to Mwalimu Jacob Sitienei.
2004-2007: Ventured into farming.
2007-2017: Employed by USAID AMPATH until his retirement.
From 2017 onwards: Remained an active and dedicated farmer. He also continued serving as a respected community transport consultant, always offering his skills and extending help to anyone who needed his professional support.
Health Journey
Joseph enjoyed remarkably good health for most of his life. However, in July 2025, he began experiencing persistent abdominal discomfort, fatigue, and a noticeable loss of appetite. After seeking medical attention, he was diagnosed with pancreatic failure, a condition that required immediate and continuous treatment. He faced this challenge with courage and faith, strictly following the treatment plan recommended by his doctors.
As his medical team monitored his progress, further tests revealed that he had also developed kidney failure. This was a difficult moment for both Joseph and his family, but he remained hopeful and cooperative. He was placed on a regular dialysis schedule, which became an essential part of managing his condition.
Throughout the treatment process, Joseph continued to display strength, resilience, and an unwavering trust in God. He maintained a positive spirit and stayed surrounded by the support and love of his family.
On 10 November, while undergoing a routine dialysis session, Joseph suddenly suffered a cardiac arrest. Medical personnel responded immediately, performing all necessary emergency procedures in an effort to revive him. Despite their dedicated and tireless efforts, Joseph could not be resuscitated, and he peacefully rested in the Lord.
Social Life & Legacy
Joseph was a hardworking, joyful, and generous man. He interacted effortlessly with people of all ages, from the young to the elderly, and was deeply loved by everyone who knew him.
He earned the nickname "Senior" as the first-born child of Mr. and Mrs. Barnabas Tendenei, a title that reflected both his position in the family and the respect he commanded. His warm personality, strong leadership qualities, and approachable nature made him well-loved and embraced by the community.
Joseph was also known for his humor and storytelling skills, often entertaining friends and peers with his lively and witty tales. He had a remarkable ability to bring laughter and joy wherever he went.
Tributes
My beloved Husband, as my husband, my best friend, and my greatest blessing, you helped me build a home filled with love, faith, and unity. Raising our children with you was one of the most beautiful journeys of my life. You were a devoted father—patient, caring, and always present.
You worked tirelessly for our family, yet your kindness, humor, and quiet strength made our home a place of joy and comfort. Though my heart aches, I am grateful for every moment we shared, every prayer we offered, and every challenge we faced together. Your love remains my comfort, your memory my strength, and your legacy lives on in our children.
Dad, you were more than a father—you were our teacher, protector, and the greatest example of strength and humility. You raised us with love, discipline, and wisdom, guiding us through life with patience and a steady hand.
Thank you for working tirelessly for our family and shaping us into the men we are today. You taught us the value of honesty, respect, and faith. Your laughter, your stories, and your gentle spirit will forever remain in our hearts.
Dad, you were my hero, my guide, and my greatest source of comfort. You loved me with a gentle heart and protected me with a strength that made me feel safe every day. I will forever cherish the way you listened to me, encouraged me, and believed in me, even when I doubted myself.
Thank you for teaching me kindness, patience, and the importance of faith, for every sacrifice you made, every smile you shared, and all the love you poured into our family. Losing you has left an emptiness in my heart, but your love continues to strengthen me. I will carry your wisdom, warmth, and beautiful spirit with me always.
You were my first blessing, my heart, and my pride. From the moment I held you in my arms, I knew you were a gift from God, meant to bring light and joy into this world. You grew into a man of strength, kindness, and humility, yet to me, you would always remain my child, my Kilooretiet, the one who filled my life with love and warmth.
It is so hard to accept that you are gone. A mother never imagines burying her own child. The pain is deep, but so is the love I carry for you. I will always remember your gentle nature, your laughter, your respect, and the way you cared for me, making sure I was never alone or in need.
Senior, to us, you were more than a brother—you were our guide, our protector, and the pillar that held our family together. From our earliest days, you led with wisdom, humility, and a heart full of love, always showing us the right path and standing as a shining example of integrity and strength.
You taught us the values of unity, responsibility, and respect, not just through words, but through your actions. You celebrated our successes, encouraged us during challenges, and carried our burdens as your own without hesitation. Your care for each of us went beyond duty—you loved us with patience, generosity, and a deep sense of family.
We remember Senior as more than a friend—he was our guide, our support, and a source of calm and wisdom. His kindness, generosity, and quiet strength touched everyone who knew him.
He taught us the true meaning of friendship: trust, care, and loyalty. His laughter, stories, and gentle spirit brought joy and comfort to our lives.
Though we mourn his loss, his memory and example will continue to guide us. Rest in peace, Senior. You will always remain in our hearts.
Appreciation
The family of the late Joseph Sambai wishes to express their profound gratitude to all who stood by us during this time of loss. We are deeply thankful to Dr. Karanja, Dr. Seth Mayaka, Dr. Robert Yatich, Dr Emmanuel Tuwei, Nurse Shadrack Mutai, Home Neighbors Nurses Job and Eliza, Melkizedeck and entire Cedar Hospital. Very Rev. Fr. Barasa, and St. Augustine Jumuiya for your unwavering care, prayers, and support.
Your kindness, compassion, and encouragement brought comfort to our hearts during our most difficult moments. We are especially grateful for the medical care, spiritual guidance, and emotional support you provided, which reminded us of God’s presence even in our sorrow.
May God bless each of you abundantly for the love and generosity you showed our family. Your support will forever remain in our hearts.