Dr. Joseph Judah Kiwovele

Joseph Judah Kiwovele, born on January 29, 1950 in Tanzania, Africa, the son of Bishop Bernard Judah Matata Kiwovele ThD and Ellen Gabriel Mtweve Kiwovele died at aged 70, on September 21, 2020 at Enloe Hospital in Chico, California. Joseph was born and raised in Tanzania and came to the U.S. in 1977 to attend California State University Chico, where he earned a Master of Science Degree in Agriculture. While attending Chico State, Joe met Anita Hudnell in 1977. Once he completed his studies at Chico State he returned to Tanzania to complete his obligation to the Tanzanian Government. Upon his return to the United Stated he married Anita on May 30, 1990. He was always interested in learning and education. He also attended Makerere University in Uganda where he earned a Bachelor degree in Chemistry. Joseph also attended Tyndale Theological Seminary in Texas where he earned a Masters and ThD. He was the author of four books; "The Unexplained", "These Tears", "Dying Twice", "Examining the Local Church", and one unfinished, "Survivor Tembo United Republic". Joseph was the beloved Pastor at The Second Baptist Church in Chico since 1999. He also taught Swahili at Chico State. He served on the board of Chico Habitat for Humanity. He taught Bible School for the California Southern Baptist Convention. He was also very active in the Chico community. Joe was an avid tennis player and musician. He played the piano, the guitar and recently learned the alto saxophone. He also enjoyed spending time at Starbucks for coffee and good conversation. Joe is survived by his wife Anita Kiwovele, Chico; son Shaundrell Kiwovele (and wife Deborah), Tanzania; daughter Vivian Shukia (and husband Richard), Tanzania; D'Vonna Kiwovele and Kylee Sarabia, Chico; mother Ellen Kiwovele, brothers: Justin (and wife Anna), Hezron (and wife Juliana), and Joshua Kiwovele and wife Costoletta), sister Rahema Setumbi, all of Tanzania; grandchildren: Moses, Maureen, Monifahanita and Joseph Shukia and Cyncir Kiwovele; and a host nieces and nephews. Donations may be made in memory of Joseph to Habitat for Humanity or the Maker's Garden at Second Baptist Church.