19.06.1920 - 13.01.2005

The Dominican Friars (Order of Preachers) of the Vicariate of Eastern Africa announce with deep sorrow the death of their beloved Brother, Father Thomas Richard Heath, on Thursday, 13 January, 2005. Father Tom died just before midnight at Aga Khan Hospital, Kisumu, from complications resulting from injuries sustained when robbers attacked the Dominican House near Kisumu, the night of Tuesday, 04 January. A faithful servant of God, who had been in Kenya for the past 13 years, after 10 years of ministry in South Africa and Leshoto, he was renowned both as a preacher and a teacher. He was mentor to a whole generation of young Catholic clergy of Kenya, who have recently studied theology in the Regional Seminary of Tindinyo. Men and women, both religious and laity, looked to him as the wisest of counselors in their spiritual journey. Finally, his own Dominican Brothers venerated him as an outstanding example of fidelity in their contemplative way of life, and a most joyful and compassionate member of their community. A vigil will take place the night of Monday, 17.01, at the Dominican Community of St. Martin de Porres, Mkendwa. The funeral Mass will be celebrated in the St. Theresa’s Cathedral, Kibuye, at 10:00 on Tuesday, 18.01, followed by interment in the Dominican Community’s cemetery.