"Laid him to rest": Gabriella thanks fans for standing by her after dad's death

This story has significance for readers across Kenya and beyond.

- Kenyan TikToker Sheryl Gabriella buried her father Joseph Kipkoech Mutai in an emotional ceremony attended by close friends and fellow creators

- The burial came after Sheryl launched an online appeal for funeral funds that sparked heated debate among Kenyan netizens and fellow content creators

- Sheryl took to Facebook to thank those who showed up for her, naming specific friends who stood by her during her most difficult moment

Kenyan TikToker and influencer Sheryl Gabriella has broken her silence following the burial of her father, expressing heartfelt gratitude to the friends who showed up for her during one of the most painful moments of her life.

Sheryl shared a moving post on Facebook five hours after the ceremony, writing:

"We finally laid dad to rest. A day filled with tears, memories, and love. Thank you for standing by me when I needed you most."

The post tagged several individuals who attended the burial, including fellow creator Kabugi, Sharon Cherop Ruto, and a friend identified as Tiff, all of whom were present to support her through the grief.

Who Was Sheryl Gabriella's father?

Sheryl's father, Joseph Kipkoech Mutai, passed away in early August. She announced his death on social media with a black rose and a tribute that read,

"Well, I guess it's goodbye, Dad," signalling the deep bond she shared with him.

In the days that followed, Sheryl launched a financial appeal online to help cover the cost of the funeral, a move that drew mixed reactions from the Kenyan internet community.

Some rallied behind her, while others questioned the appeal given her earlier posts about her income as a content creator.

Low turnout but loyal friends

Despite the online noise surrounding the fundraiser, the burial was marked by a notably low turnout from the wider creator community.

However, a handful of close friends and fellow creators made sure she did not face the day alone. Kabugi, Star Cherop, and Moraa Stacy were among those who showed up in person to stand beside her.

The support from this small but loyal circle clearly meant the world to Sheryl, whose emotional post reflected both the weight of the loss and the warmth of the friendships that carried her through it.

Source: TUKO.co.ke

Reporting originally appeared via TUKO. Read the full source for additional context.