Joe Hlupheka Bayana 1962–2023
Joe was born in 1962 and died in 2023. His Leaf will be dedicated at Hobson Place on September 21, 2026
Reflections of Joe: “He died at Hobson Place where he lived his last years. He often mentioned his gratitude for having housing and an apartment with a view of Mount Rainier! He was very well known throughout the Seattle community for his infectious laugh and personality. He was a storyteller and musician. Joe immigrated to the US by way of Zimbabwe and South Africa as part of a band. He played the marimba and steel drums. He spent years in an ICE facility and died desperately wanting citizenship and the ability to work. He was embedded in a church community and had friends/family all over the world who loved him dearly.”
If you have photos or memories of Joe, please leave a comment.
2 Comments
Jessica Schreindl
Hello,
I’m the communications manager at DESC, and I’ve been reading about the people who will be honored with leaves at the September 21 ceremony. I recently learned about Joe and his story through the LoR project.
While looking into Joe and his band, I came across this album, released in 1995, and thought it might be fun to share: https://open.spotify.com/album/2xwudwSZ8TbSXb1bkklWa5
Thanks,
– Jess
PAUL and Mary EHRLICH
Joe just dropped into our church many years ago. With his personality and music he easily became part of the congregation His favorite phrase was “God is good ALL the time.” We walked along side of him as he tried to get his work permits and then his problems with ICE. As humans we all have our problems, but we are also a reflection of God and his Spirit. It was good for us to have known Joe and to walk with him.