LEGSON KAYIRA

He was my great grandfather and right now I work hard to be like him

I had the honor and privilege of meeting Legson Kayira in 1960, shortly after he arrived in Mount Vernon, Washington. I was 9 years old. Meeting him was a bright light in my life and I will always remember him. I am currently writing a book about my life for my grandchildren and I decided to include my experience of meeting Legson.

I see I've had the honor of being the last entry in the guest book almost nine years ago. I hope Julie is still with us and well. It would be comforting for her to add something to the book to confirm that. I think of Legson whenever Malawi is in the news, and what a much better and prosperous country it could have been had he returned to become president. I've never been much an advocate of the theory that a country is shaped by personalities of leaders, but I'm sure Legson, like a...

I first met Legson more than 47 years ago, and he has been a continuing source of inspiration ever since. The world has lost a great man and towering literary talent. I predict his reputation will only grow as the years go by.

Thank you to everyone who contributed to this guest book. Legson would be so proud to be remember so well. He loved SVC, the county and the people and never forgot their generosity and friendship.

Just a few months ago my brother and I were talking about Legson; I'd been looking for a copy of his book, "I will try". His visit to my third grade classroom at Westview Elementary School in Burlington is as bright today as it was then. Legson was seated on a small child's chair (I don't think an adult size chair existed in that room) while holding a world globe. He was attempting to impress on thirty young children where he had traveled from and what a journey he had made. But mostly, I...

I still remember meeting Mr. Kiyira, so many years ago! He made a very big impression on me. My father, Rex Coslor, began teaching at SVJC that year. He was so excited about Mr. Kiyira's long journey and arrival to little old Mount Vernon! I will never forget him (I was 6 years old at the time).
My sincere condolences to all his family,

Ree Coslor
Mount Vernon

Legson was a HUGE influence on me as a teen when he visited our church in Alger. My family has kept track of him all these years...what a wonderful mark he made on our world! Condolences to his family. Judy(McMahan) Simkins, Seattle WA

Our family followed Legson's journey for many years. Our thoughts go out to the family in their time of loss.