The story of Johana Butuk, the Eldoret man who made headlines as the first Kenyan to marry at 99, has taken a heartbreaking turn following his death at the age of 110. Butuk, a resident of Soy in Uasin Gishu County, passed away on September 27, bringing to an end a love story that had captured the attention of many Kenyans.
According to family members and neighbors, Butuk lived a fulfilled life after marrying his 43-year-old wife, Alice Jemeli, in a colorful ceremony on January 14, 2023. The couple had dated for two decades before finally tying the knot. Jemeli, who met Butuk in 2003 when she was in her early 20s, described their marriage as deeply fulfilling despite their vast age difference.
Why did Jemeli vow never to remarry?
During her husband’s burial in Tuyabei, Soy, Jemeli gave a heartfelt tribute, promising to remain loyal to her late husband even in his death.
“I don’t want to start attracting other men out there. For the respect of my late husband, I will never betray him by remarrying. I will stay home and take care of the children,” she said.
The widow revealed that after their wedding, hundreds of visitors flocked to their home, eager to meet the couple whose story had gone viral nationwide. Their modest mud-walled home later received a major upgrade when a well-wisher, inspired by their story, built them a permanent two-bedroom house.
Despite the loss, Jemeli now faces the challenge of raising and educating her children. She shared that she hopes to venture into small-scale farming, including dairy and poultry projects, to sustain her family.
“I have been doing menial jobs but my dream is to engage in meaningful agricultural activities so that I support the children because I earn very little from casual labor,” she added.
How did the community react to Mzee Butuk’s life and marriage?
Neighbors and relatives praised Jemeli for her courage and devotion, describing her as a woman of remarkable strength. Her brother, Peter Chepkogon, said he gave his blessing for the marriage after Jemeli assured him of her love for Butuk.
A neighbor, Sally Lagat, said the union brought joy and longevity to Butuk’s life. “We are convinced that he lived happily and longer after marrying. It was after their story was highlighted that a good Samaritan built them a house,” she said.
Father Richard Kemei of St. Charles Lwanga Soy Catholic Church, who officiated their wedding, said the couple’s story proved that love has no age limit.
“What matters is whether the couple love each other,” he stated.
By Modester Nasimiyu
