"If you're a good person even after death your grave is loved." (An African tribal proverb)

The family of the late Mr. Kanyama Chiume regrets to announce the untimely passing of their beloved daughter, sister and aunt Jessie Wayasa Mgeni Chiume.

We affectionately called Jessie "Da Mgeni." She was a beautiful soul, full of life, generous, and loved by so many. A book of poetry she wrote gave a glimpse of her occasional melancholy sentiment. When she wasn't leading a party in dancing, you may find her at home listening to her large collections of African music. As a head nurse at North Central Bronx Hospital in the Bronx, NY, she adored helping people, whether they were sick, newly born, her family, her friends or her community. She was on her way to do her mission in life when she was tragically and instantly taken from us in a car accident that happened in Mount Vernon, NY in the early hours on Wednesday, February 24, 2016. 

The family is finalizing the plans for Da Mgeni's wake and her final resting place. We will issue updates accordingly.  Meanwhile, in response to numerous requests from friends and family, we have set up this page in her memory. Those who wish can offer their generous support towards these plans by contributing here.

We are grateful for the outpouring of love and continuing support from friends, neighbors, coworkers, and the Tanzanian and Malawian communities while we are dealing with this heavy loss.

"Blessed are they that mourn, for they shall be comforted." (Matthew 5:4)

The Chiume Family