I’m saddened to share that Hillary, our former Liturgy Prefect at Bubangizi SSS, passed away last evening.
I had the privilege of serving alongside him as the Catholic Charismatic Renewal Movement Prayer Group’s Leader No.1 (2013/14).
Hillary was a devoted servant of God, dedicating his time to training the school choir, playing the piano and actively participating in the Legion of Mary, CCR, YCS and School Choir.
Although we lost touch after our A’ Level (UACE) exams, I’ll always remember his commitment to faith and service.
One of my most unforgettable memories is the time I got suspended from school because of Hillary. It happened during our final UACE exams when he organized a birthday party at his home in Kashensero, just a stone’s throw away from school. Coincidentally, Minister Maj. Gen. Kahinda Otafiire was hosting a vigil for his wife Faridah on the same night.
Many students who attended the party were suspended after being spied on by the prefects. As friends, we protested against one of the prefects, Gervase Tumukunde (His Successor), who I personally forced out of our reading room. He reported me to Deputy Headteacher Mr. Nuwagira Mbaga, nicknamed “Hitler,” who promptly ordered my suspension from school premises before I could sit for my final Kiswahili exam.
That was my first and only suspension from school. I also fondly remember our spiritual visits to St. John Fisher SS Ibanda (IBASCO) and St. Boni Concil Kyabirikwa – Isingiro, where we represented our school at Inter-Schools Prayer Day celebrations. Hillary trusted me as his Charismatic Movement Leader, and I respected him as my Liturgy Prefect.
I miss the beautiful music during school choir training and Sunday Morning Masses at Our Lady of Perpetual Help – Bubangizi Catholic Parish. There’s so much to remember, and few things to forget.
May God forgive his sins and grant him eternal rest.
Rest with the angels, Hillary! Your legacy of faith and service will be remembered.
By Leonard Kamugisha Akida,
The Author is a Ugandan Journalist, Media Trainer and Founder Parrots Media.
