In Memory of Father Deo

On Sunday 22nd January, we received the heart-breaking news that our dear friend and partner in mission, Father Deo, passed away in Uganda after a courageous battle with cancer. His loss is deeply felt across the Teams4u family, the communities he served, and all who were blessed to know him.

Our founder, Dave Cooke, reflected:

“What an amazing man of God who was an incredible influence in helping to establish Teams4u in Uganda. An amazing man who drew alongside us as we endeavoured to get established there. He taught me so much. A dear friend and brother.”

A Partnership That Began Under a Mango Tree

We first met Father Deo on 23rd August 2009, when our team joined a church service held beneath a mango tree. From that very first encounter, he became a steadfast supporter of Teams4u and a vital partner in the work that would follow.

A Leader Who Mobilised Communities

Father Deo played a key role in supporting Ben as he mobilised the community and local schools for sports initiatives, HIV and AIDS counselling and testing programmes. His voice carried influence, and his integrity earned trust, strengthening our outreach far beyond what would have been possible without him.

A Constant Presence on Every Trip

He accompanied Teams4u teams on every project we undertook in Kumi, offering encouragement, wisdom and unwavering support. Through his advocacy for our Develop with Dignity initiative, Father Deo helped open doors for honest, transformative conversations that challenged harmful myths surrounding sexual and menstrual health.

His partnership not only shaped the impact of our programmes but also shaped us, our understanding, our relationships and our long-term commitment to the communities we serve.

Remembered With Warmth and Joy

Michaela Wright, a long-time volunteer with Teams4u in Uganda, shared her tribute:

“On my many trips to Uganda with Teams4u, Father Deo was always a constant. He was a friend who had the brightest smile. His gentle spirit would greet you always. Caring and kind in all he did, he welcomed everyone with warmth and compassion. He touched so many lives and his loss will be felt far and wide.”

Honouring His Life and Legacy

Today, members of the Teams4u family are present at Father Deo’s funeral, standing alongside his community to honour a life that radiated kindness, wisdom and a deep commitment to serving others.

Father Deo leaves behind a legacy woven into countless lives. In the children supported through sports and health programmes, in the women and girls empowered through education, and in every relationship nurtured through compassion and faith.

He was a friend, a partner, a teacher and a brother.
We will carry his memory forward with gratitude and the determination to continue the work he championed so faithfully.

Rest in peace, Father Deo. You will never be forgotten.