The personal chef of former US President Barack Obama and his wife Michelle has died in an accidental drowning near their Martha’s Vineyard estate.
Tafari Campbell, 45, was paddleboarding on Edgartown Great Pond on July 23 when he lost his balance and fell into the water. He was not wearing a personal flotation device and was not leashed to the paddleboard.
His body was recovered by Massachusetts State Police divers a day later, about 100 feet from shore at a depth of about eight feet.
Tafari Campbell Cause of Death
The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner has ruled Campbell’s death an accident.
Campbell was a sous chef at the White House when the Obamas first met him. He then became their personal chef after Obama’s second term ended.
Tafari Campbell Wife and Children
He leaves behind a wife Sherise and twin boys Xavier and Savin.
In a statement, Obama said Campbell was “a kind and gentle soul” who “brought people together”.
“He believed that actions speak louder than words,” Obama said. “And he used his immense gifts to bring people together, provide comfort, and spread joy. I’ll miss him every day.”