Kikuyu Mugithi singer Samidoh has reassured his foster mom, Senator Betty Montet, not to worry now that her husband, Colonel James Gitahi, has passed away, as he will stand by her through thick and thin, moving forward.
In a post shared on his Instagram on Sunday, March 17, 2025, the revered singer expressed his deep understanding of how easy it was for Betty to feel lost in her grief and stated that he, alongside the biological children of the deceased pilot, would offer her unwavering support and stand by her during this difficult time.
According to him, Gitahi had exceeded his role as a father, embodying kindness and admirable virtues, which made his passing all the more heartbreaking, both for him and Betty.
“You were truly one of a kind. To our mom, Senator Betty Montet, our good Lord will be with you, and as your children, we will remain by your side.”
Father figure
Samidoh further detailed how Gitahi had fully embraced the role of his father and shared that he had learnt a wealth of wisdom and advice from him.
He noted that, for this reason, he does not feel completely heartbroken, as he knows Gitahi will continue to live on through them and through the virtues he instilled in them.
“Yesterday, we said our final goodbyes to an incredible man whom I was fortunate enough to call Dad. A man who chose me and became my foster father, my mentor, and my guide. Though he is no longer with us, his love, wisdom, and legacy will live on forever in our hearts. Rest well, Colonel (Rtd) JG.”
Accident
James Gitahi, who had been a pilot for 44 years, perished after his vehicle crashed head-on with an oncoming lorry along the Mombasa Highway on Wednesday, March 5, 2025.
Gitahi had taken on the role of Samidoh’s father after the ‘Toxic Love’ crooner’s biological father, who was a police officer, died years ago while on duty.
At the time of his death, Gitahi was married to nominated Senator Betty Batuli Montet, whom Samidoh referred to in his Instagram post.
He lost his life after his vehicle veered off the road from the impact of the head-on collision and burst into flames as onlookers watched from a distance.
In the aftermath, Gitahi was burnt beyond recognition, trapped inside the wreckage of his car.
Authorities revealed that the veteran pilot was alone in the vehicle at the time of the crash.
In an earlier interview during his retirement party, Gitahi had reminded his close family, friends, and colleagues about the importance of gratitude, emphasising that tomorrow is never guaranteed.
“Every time you breathe, give thanks to God because you do not know what is in store for you,” he urged.
The retired army colonel prided himself on having flown two sitting presidents during his more than 44 years in the skies. After retiring from the army, Gitahi continued flying commercial fixed-wing aircraft at Wilson Airport and mentoring aspiring pilots.
