Former President Barack Obama and wife Michelle mourned the death of the family’s personal chef, Tafari Campbell, whom they hailed as a “friend” with “immense gifts” — more than a week after he drowned while paddleboarding in Martha’s Vineyard.
Obama, 62, on Thursday shared a photo of himself posing with Campbell and his wife, Sherise, around Christmastime, writing in the accompanying post: “Tafari Campbell showed us what true character looks like.”
“He believed that actions speak louder than words,” the message continued. “And he used his immense gifts to bring people together, provide comfort, and spread joy. I’ll miss him every day.”
Michelle Obama also paid tribute to Campbell in a separate Instagram post, writing: “I will miss my friend, Tafari…the emptiness is hard. But I promise to stay strong, keep living, and honor your legacy in every way possible. Rest in peace, my brother.”
The 59-year-old former first lady shared a photo of herself and Barack posing with Campbell in his white chef’s coat, and another image of the beaming cook showing off a wicker platter filled with various mouthwatering dishes.
Campbell, 45, was found dead on July 24 in 8 feet of water about 100 feet from the shore of the Obamas’ summer estate on Edgartown Great Pond.
According to a witness account, Campbell was not wearing a life vest and was not tethered to his paddleboard when he lost his balance and fell into the water, where he was seen struggling to stay afloat, according to officials.
Another paddleboarder frantcially tried to save Campbell, but “did not reach him in time,” the Massachusetts State police said in a statement last week.
The would-be rescuer then swam to shore and called for help.
The Obamas were not home at the time of their employee’s fatal drowning.
In the tragedy’s immediate aftermath, Barack and Michelle released a brief joint statement mourning Campbell’s loss.
“Tafari was a beloved part of our family,” they said. “Today we join everyone who knew and loved Tafari — especially his wife Sherise and their twin boys, Xavier and Savin — in grieving the loss of a truly wonderful man.”
The investigation into Campbell’s death has been completed and no evidence was found to suggest foul play, police said.
Authorities were still awaiting Campbell’s toxicology report, which could take weeks.
Campbell first worked as a sous chef at the White House, beginning under George W. Bush and staying through Obama’s both terms in office. He was later hired as the Obama family’s personal chef.
