The Kenyan community in Washington State is mourning the passing of Thomas (Tom) Odera, who died in Tacoma, Washington, on Monday, June 1, 2026.
Tom was the beloved younger brother of Jacob Odera, a well-known member of the Kenyan community in Tacoma. His passing has left family members, relatives, friends, and the wider Kenyan diaspora deeply saddened.
As the family begins preparations to return Tom to Kenya for burial, they are appealing for financial assistance to help meet the substantial costs associated with repatriating his body to his ancestral home in Ajingo, Bondo, Siaya County.
Family Appeals for Repatriation Support
The family and the Kenyan community have launched a fundraising effort to raise $20,000, which will cover the costs of:
- Repatriation of Tom’s body from the United States to Kenya
- Funeral arrangements
- Burial expenses in Ajingo, Bondo, Siaya County
- Other related logistical costs
The family says every contribution, regardless of the amount, will make a meaningful difference in helping them give Tom a dignified final farewell.
Community Comes Together in Tacoma
Friends, relatives, and members of the Kenyan community have been gathering daily to comfort the bereaved family and offer support during this difficult period…