President William Ruto has led Kenya in mourning the death of Dr J. Roy Stover, a teacher, pastor, and community leader from Eldama Ravine.
Taking to social media on Sunday, July 6, the President eulogised Stover as a remarkable leader who helped several community members through his teachings.
"Our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and the Eldama Ravine community for the passing of Dr J. Roy Stover. Dr Stover will be remembered for his remarkable service as a teacher, pastor and community leader," he stated.
"He touched many lives through his teachings and transformative initiatives that supported the vulnerable. His legacy will live on. Rest In Peace, Dr Stover," he added.
Stover was the main speaker during the 2006 declaration of President William Ruto, organised by Musa Sirma EGH MP.
He was a United States missionary born in Farmington, Michigan, on November 15, 1940, before moving to Kenya for missionary service at Rift Valley Academy in Kenya.
He would later become a beloved pastor of AIC Eldama Ravine Town Church, a role he would serve in until his untimely death on July 6, 2025.
Under his leadership, the church grew from just a few families to a thriving community of over 1,500 members, according to the Eldama Ravine MP Musa Sirma.
In a statement mourning the late pastor, MP Sirma described him as a pastor grounded in the word of God, who also founded a children's home and a high school in the area.
"Rev. Stover was not only a pastor but also a mentor, builder, educator, husband, father figure to many, and visionary leader," the MP stated.
"His legacy includes the founding of the Elma Barnett Children’s Centre and Elma Kamonong’ High School—places that continue to offer hope and opportunity to the next generation."
Baringo Governor Benjamin Cheboi also mourned the pastor as "a person who dedicated his life to Christian mission."
"His journey was one of obedience to the Great Commission, carrying the Gospel to distant lands and faithfully shepherding God’s people with humility and grace," the governor relayed.
The cause of his death has yet to be revealed at the time of the publication of this article.
