Retired Kenyan Soldier Dies While Visiting Son in Baltimore

The Kenyan community in Baltimore, Maryland, is mourning the death of retired Kenya Defence Forces officer John Nyaberi Mabiria, who died on 1 November 2025 while receiving treatment at MedStar Franklin Square Hospital.

Mabiria, known affectionately as Mzee, had travelled to the United States in February to visit his son, Sospeter Nyaberi. His stay extended after complications from a previous surgical procedure in Kenya led to persistent infections and repeated hospital admissions. 

His wife, Mama Helen Mabiria, arrived in May to support him during his treatment, which included three separate hospitalisations before his final illness. Although retired KDF officers are eligible for military burial honours, such ceremonies are rarely conducted outside Kenya without diplomatic coordination. 

The family has chosen a local burial in Maryland, a decision consistent with US regulations that allow temporary visitors to be interred regardless of immigration status, though such status can influence repatriation processes. The funeral will take place on Friday, 21 November, at Schimunek Funeral Home in Nottingham, Maryland, followed by burial at Holly Hill Memorial Gardens in Essex. 

The service will run from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., after which mourners will gather for a repast at the family home. Daily evening meetings are being held at Sospeter’s residence, where relatives and friends are offering prayers and financial assistance.

Community leaders have issued an appeal for support, with contributions coordinated through designated Zelle and CashApp contacts. 

The family has expressed appreciation for the assistance received and has welcomed the community to join them in prayer and remembrance as they prepare to lay him to rest in Maryland.