The Obamas are expressing their condolences for the untimely passing of chef Tafari Campbell through social media.
On August 3rd, an image was posted by President Barack Obama, featuring Campbell alongside him and his wife Sherise. Another picture showcased the chef proudly displaying his exquisite culinary creations.
In his message, the former president commemorated Tafari Campbell’s genuine character, highlighting his belief in the potency of actions over words. Campbell’s exceptional talents were dedicated to fostering unity, offering solace, and bringing happiness. The former president expressed his ongoing sense of loss, emphasizing that Campbell will be greatly missed.
Michelle Obama offered her heartfelt tribute along with a photograph capturing a joyful moment shared with her husband and the chef at the White House. In her tribute, she expressed her deep sense of loss over the passing of her friend, Tafari. Despite the painful void left by his absence, she vowed to remain resilient, continue living life to the fullest, and uphold his memory by incorporating his legacy into her actions. She concluded her message by bidding farewell to Tafari, addressing him as her brother.
Tragically, Tafari, who was 45 years old, met his untimely demise while engaging in paddleboarding near the Obama family’s residence on Martha’s Vineyard. Reports indicate that he encountered difficulties maintaining his balance on the board, ultimately leading to his drowning. Law enforcement authorities have suggested that Tafari’s struggle to remain steady on the paddleboard contributed to the unfortunate accident.
The family had earlier released a collective message following the tragic revelation of Campbell’s passing on July 24th.
“Tafari held a special place in our family’s heart. Our initial encounter introduced us to his culinary skills as a skilled sous chef at the White House – displaying creativity and a deep love for using food to unite people. Over time, we came to recognize him as a friendly, cheerful, and exceptionally gentle individual who brought a touch of light into each of our lives,” they expressed in their joint communication.
“Tafari held a special place in our hearts as a cherished member of our family. Our initial encounter introduced us to his impressive skills as a sous chef at the White House – displaying creativity and a deep enthusiasm for the unifying power of food. Over the subsequent years, we discovered his delightful and benevolent personality, adding a touch of light to each of our lives,” their statement conveyed.
The statement went on to explain, “This is why, as we were making preparations to depart from the White House, we extended an invitation to Tafari to remain with us, a proposal he graciously accepted. Since then, he has been an integral part of our lives, and his untimely departure has left us deeply saddened. Today, we stand together with all those who had the privilege of knowing and cherishing Tafari – particularly his wife Sherise and their twin sons, Xavier and Savin – as we mourn the loss of an exceptionally remarkable individual.”
Tafari Campbell had formerly served as a chef at the White House and was subsequently retained by the family following the conclusion of President Obama’s term, commencing in 2017.