Daystar University Co-founder Faye Smith passes on at 95

Faye Smith, one of the co-founders of Daystar University in Athi River, has passed away after a prolonged illness.

She was 95 years old at the time of her death.

The institution released a statement honouring her memory and highlighting her cheerful spirit.

They also highlighted her exceptional abilities in curating information and the numerous gifts she possessed.

Faye Smith. Faye is a Co-founder of Daystar University alongside her husband Don Smith. Photo: Faye Smith/ Daystar University

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Faye Smith was described as a dedicated companion to her husband, Don Smith, with whom she pursued their missionary calling together.

Her health had been in decline over the past seven years, ultimately leading to her passing.

A funeral service to commemorate Faye Smith’s life will take place at the Main Campus Amphitheatre on Saturday, October 14, 2023.

Following the service, she will be laid to rest at the Heroes Corner starting at 10 a.m.

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Founding Daystar

Faye Smith and her husband played a pivotal role in the founding of Daystar University in 1974.

They acquired property in Nairobi with support from friends in the United States and the Tyndale Foundation.

Initially known as Daystar Communications, the institution later evolved into Daystar University College.

However, after assessment and further growth, Daystar was eventually granted a charter as Daystar University in 1994 under Nyayo’s reign.

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Daystar University Main Campus in Athi River. A funeral service to commemorate Faye Smith’s life will take place at the Main Campus Amphitheatre on Saturday, October 14, 2023. Photo: Daystar University, Main Campus/ Facebook

Faye’s Life

Born on December 26, 1928, in Eugene, Oregon, Faye married Don on June 25, 1950.

They embarked on their missionary journey together in 1952 in South Africa.

Later, they relocated to Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, where they collaborated with Motsoko Pheko to establish Daystar Communications.

Faye Smith is survived by her husband of 73 years, Donald K. Smith; her son, D. Vance Smith, along with his wife Lucia Smith and their daughter Olivia Smith; her daughter, Julisa Rowe, her husband Bill Rowe, and their sons Kendall Rowe and Nathaniel Rowe.

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