Dumisani Longwe
Dumisani “Dumi” Brandon Findlay Longwe, 29 of Seattle WA passed away Saturday January 7th, 2023. Dumisani was born in Malawi on November 17th, 1993. During the early years of his life, Dumisani lived with his beloved maternal grandparents where he was famously known as “grandpa walking stick” as he was always by his side. Dumisani moved to the USA with his mother when he was 10 years old and grew up in Columbus Ohio and Bellevue Washington. He graduated from Interlake High school, class of 2012.
Dumisani had a heart of gold and was always the caring big brother to his cousins. He was kind, gentle and had an infectious smile which anyone who knew him would testify. Dumisani loved art, swimming and travelling while spending his days outdoors.
For a few years, Dumisani fought on and off the battle with mental health and substance abuse. Dumisani tried his best to take the steps to change the course of his life through several mental health and substance abuse rehabilitation treatments. But ultimately, the devil schemes and outsmarts even the most creative and savvy individuals and he did to our Dumisani. On January 7th, 2023, Dumisani accidentally overdosed on Fentanyl.
This opioid epidemic that took our Dumisani’s young precious life is increasing at an alarming rate. And if by sharing Dumisani’s story and struggles another young person’s life is saved, Dumisani’s death will not be in vain.
As a family we are devastated, in pain, shocked and numb but we would like to share our story so that not another family should ever go through what we have. To honor Dumisani’s legacy, let us spread the awareness and truth about this opioid pandemic that is killing our loved ones.
Dumisani is survived by his beloved mother Wezi Longwe, stepdad Reginald Lingard, his beloved maternal aunties, Chimwemwe (Oscar) Mablekisi, Nyembezi (Felix) Ochiabuto, Faith (Charles) Simango, and Linda Longwe; his maternal uncle Herbert (Thandeka) Longwe, maternal cousins Bhekinkosi and Vusi Simango, Chinasa, Chidi and Mayibase Ochiabuto, Lucy, Thembi and Thumbiko Mablekisi, Themba, Unandi and Jikama Longwe. Dumisani is also survived by his paternal uncles Adrian and Graham Findlay, his half-brother Christopher (CJ) Findlay, paternal cousins Corey, Lorna, Rihanna, Jordan, Alistair and Owen Findlay, numerous aunties, uncles, cousins, and friends. The late Dumisani is preceded in death by his father Christopher “Topher” Findlay and his maternal and paternal grandparents.
A funeral service will be held at Kirkland Seventh-day Adventist church, 6400 108th Ave NE, Kirkland WA on January 29th, 2023, from 2-4pm, refreshments will follow. Dumisani’s body will then be repatriated to Malawi, the home where always had a special place in his heart and where his burial will take place.
Condolence contributions can be sent through Zelle: Faith Simango (425)260-8504 OR Venmo: @ Faith-Simango OR Cashapp $FaithSimango
Psalm 4:8 “I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for thou Lord, only makest me dwell in safety”
The post first appeared on Barton Family Funeral Service.