I learnt of my father's death on Facebook - son

The calm but sombre mood that engulfed All Saints Cathedral Nakasero today and the outpouring of grief captured the sense of loss only too well.

Edward Kasisiri,61, the director of Kampala Quality school was a wealthy man but respected everyone.

At the funeral service Kasisiri was eulogised as a man who turned to gold whatever he touched.

(L-R) Children of the late director of Kampala quality primary school, Edward Kasisiri; Kayemba Alan, Kirabo Alex , Kenneth Mark Agaba laying a wreath on his casket during the funeral service at All Saints Cathedral Kampala. Photo by Richard Sanya.

He died at Yashoda Hospital in Hyderabad, India. On 5th January, after taking a bath at his home, his nephew who was waiting for him in the next room heard a loud groan. He rushed into his bedroom and found him seated on the chair breathing hard. He was rushed to Case Clinic, and later Nakasero and then India where he died.

Kasisiri suffered cardiac arrest just before he could go for an operation.

Mourners praised the late mathematician for his love for children and the church. This explained the big attendance by parents, clergy, friends, family, pupils of Kampala Quality School and former old students he taught.

(L-R ) Children of the late Edward Kasisiri; Kirabo Alex, Asiimwe Catherine Emily, Arinaitwe Clare Freda, Kenneth Mark Agaba and Kayemba Alan during the funeral service at All Saints Cathedral Kampala. Photo by Richard Sanya.

"The departure of Kasisiri is a big blow to our family since he was the bread winner to most of us.

"When my father died in 1999, uncle Edward started paying for my fees till I finished university, when I got married, he employed me and my wife in his school. He is one person we all looked at in our family," said Geoffrey Tushabe, a nephew.

Eulogising her husband, Jennipher Kasisiri shared her love story with mourners.

"I prayed to God for six years for a husband and he gave me Eddy. For the 30 years we have been together, I have never regretted marrying him. He has shown me love, as a woman, he always supported and encouraged me to aim high.

The late Kasisiri's children eulogsing their father during a funeral service at All Saints Cathedral. Photo by Richard Sanya

"Whenever I did something, he would compliment me. If I had given this speech when he was still alive, he would be the first to compliment me.

"My best friend, I will continue educating your nieces and nephews you have been looking after. I will miss you but I know you have gone to a better place," she said.

His son, Ken Kasisiri who is studying engineering in UK gave the most moving speech.

"When I called my family to find out how dad was doing, they told me that he was fine and he had gone to the bank. A few hours later, I saw different people's posts on Facebook announcing his death. It was depressing for me because I do not have so many friends in the UK.

"Ever since I went to study engineering, dad has been addressing me as Engineer Ken. His dream was to see me graduate in November, unfournately he will not be around.

"We will carry forward your humility and respect for all. Good bye daddy, thank you for the lessons you taught us. We will remember you as the best dad anyone could ever have," he told a sobbing crowd.

His Grace the Archbishop of the church of Uganda, Stanley Ntangali was represented by his wife Beatrice Ntangali. He described the late as a friendly man who served his nation with a passion.

"We will miss him but he has gone to be with the lord," said.

During the service, Stanbic Bank assured parents and family members that they should not be scared of anything. The school had no debts and they would continue supporting it.

Presiding over the service, Bishop Hannington Mutebi advised family members not to fight for the deceased‘s properties but instead maintain his legacy.

He will be buried tomorrow at his home in Manyangwa, Gayaza road.