Dr. Margaret Wairimu Kihato

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Dr. Margaret Wairimu Kihato, a devoted mother, scholar, mentor, and friend, who departed this life surrounded by family on June 8, 2026, at the age of 75.

Dr. Kihato dedicated more than 35 years to higher education, inspiring generations of students through her distinguished career in teaching, research, and service. As a professor of Hospitality and Tourism Management at Wiley University and Kenyatta University, she was known for her intellectual rigor, unwavering commitment to student success, and passion for advancing knowledge in hospitality and tourism management, food systems management, and nutrition

Born on May 5th, 1951, in Kiambu County, Kenya, Margaret was the eldest of five siblings. At the age of 19, she attended Temple Secretarial College in Nairobi and later worked as a legal secretary while helping support her siblings through school. Her pursuit of education led her to earn degrees from SUNY College (1979), Kenyatta University (1987), the University of Guelph (1991), and Texas Woman’s University (2004), culminating in a Ph.D. in Nutrition.

Throughout her remarkable academic career, Dr. Kihato authored numerous publications, presented research nationally and internationally, and made significant contributions to her scholarly community. Colleagues admired her thoughtful leadership, mentorship, and dedication to academic excellence. Her family deeply admired her resilience, courage, and unwavering faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Margaret was a devoted mother to her two children. She gave generously of her time and heart to family and friends and was known for her wisdom, kindness, integrity, and generosity of spirit. She found joy in the outdoors, edible gardening, and quiet hours spent reading.

Margaret is survived by Gracia R. Kihato (daughter), Ashley Kihato (daughter in-law) Ezriel-Isaiah & Emma Wairimu (grandchildren), and many other beloved family members and friends. She was preceded in death by her son, Emmanuel “Mannie” Kihato; her mother Minneh Muigai; her aunts; Njeri Muigai, Dr Waithira Muigai, and her mother and her father- in-law Rhoda and Perminus Kihato.

Margaret’s legacy lives on through the countless students she inspired, the colleagues she mentored, the scholarship she contributed, and the family she cherished. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations in Dr. Kihato’s memory to Wiley University, Texas Woman’s University, or a charity of your choice, reflecting her lifelong commitment to education and learning.

May her memory be a blessing and an inspiration to all who knew and loved her.

Wiley University -

https://www.wileyc.edu/alumni/make-a-donation

Texas Woman's University -

https://giving.twu.edu/g/general-donation