Takura Carlos Rukuni, a former Seventh-day Adventist Theological Seminary student, passed away on Thursday, Oct. 2. He was facing a long battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). A consolation service was held at the Seminary Chapel on the evening of Oct. 6.
Takura was born in Masvingo, Zimbabwe, and earned a master's degree in religion, a bachelor's degree in theology, and an associate degree in Business and Administration from Solusi University. He served as a district pastor from 2006 to 2017, and later became the president of the Central Zimbabwe Conference from 2018 until 2023, when he moved to Berrien Springs to pursue graduate studies at the Seventh-Day Adventist Seminary at Andrews University. He paused his studies in the fall of 2024 as his health decayed due to ALS.
Friends and coworkers of Takura remember his impact and spiritual support in his role as pastor. Edward Tavakoza commented on Facebook, “His faithful leadership, unwavering commitment to the mission of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, successful projects by the grace of the Lord, which he led, humble service left a lasting impact on many lives.”
He leaves behind his wife, Wimbainashe Chirobe Rukuni, and his four daughters: Tawananyasha Praise—who is a freshman nursing student at Andrews—Blessing, Priscilla and Peculiar. During the consolation service, Abner Hernandez, associate dean and professor of Church History, led a prayer of benediction for the family as they stood on the front of the seminary and were surrounded by Andrews staff, students, and loved ones.
Takura’s last wish was to be buried in his native Zimbabwe, and his family and friends are working to make this possible.
The Andrews community will continue to pray for the Rukuni family that they may find comfort and support from God during this time of grief, always holding to the promise of the second coming.
The Student Movement is the official student newspaper of Andrews University. Opinions expressed in the Student Movement are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors, Andrews University or the Seventh-day Adventist church.