Peace Corps Volunteer Murdered in Africa
EmailABC News’ Kirit Radia Reports: A Peace Corps volunteer was found dead early this morning in the west African nation of Benin, the State Department said today. The victim’s name and age were not provided. A State Department official said she had been stationed about six hours north of the capital of Cotonou.
"The female volunteer was found outside her home and identified by colleagues and friends at the school where she worked as a teacher," acting State Department spokesman Robert Wood told reporters.
A senior State Department official later said it is believed she had been murdered but offered no details on the circumstances of her death.
"We are saddened by the news of the death of a peace corps volunteer in Benin," Peace Corps spokeswoman Laura Lartigue said, declining to provide further details of the incident because an investigation is ongoing.
"Local police authorities are conducting an investigation and coordinating with Peace Corps and the State Department," she said.
The US Embassy in the capital of Conotou has dispatched its top security officer and other personnel to the site in order to conduct an investigation.
"The government of Benin has expressed condolences to the U.S. government and pledged full cooperation and support in this matter. The State Department expresses our deepest condolences to the family of the volunteer and the Peace Corps," Wood said.
The victim’s family is currently being notified, Wood said.
Including the victim there are 100 Peace Corps volunteers serving in Benin, among 7,836 volunteers serving worldwide.
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My thoughts and prayers go out the her family & friends, both stateside and in Benin.
Posted by: Tom Emmons | March 12, 2009, 5:50 pm 5:50 pm
This is such tragic news my thoughts and prayers go out to her and her peace corps family.
Chas
RPCV Micronesia,Yap
06-07
Posted by: Chas Hardy | March 12, 2009, 6:01 pm 6:01 pm
I know the family and they are the nicest people you could ever come across. This is a terrible tragedy and my deepest, sincerest sympathy goes out to them at this extremely difficult time. I will be praying for them and lighting a candle in honor of such a wonderful person.
Posted by: Steve | March 12, 2009, 6:33 pm 6:33 pm
Who murdered her and have they caught them?
Posted by: DEF | March 12, 2009, 7:29 pm 7:29 pm
I just got this painful news. I’ve known her since she was barely walking…she is like a daughter and my heart is broken. SHe was always doing the right thing….giving, giving and giving. I will pray for her family.
Posted by: Linda | March 12, 2009, 7:31 pm 7:31 pm
Very sad news. Peace Corps Volunteers around the world are working with passion everyday despite living in high-risk situations. My thoughts and prayers to the family and her Peace Corps colleagues.
Hunter Ogletree
RPCV Honduras 03-05
Posted by: Hunter Ogletree | March 12, 2009, 7:39 pm 7:39 pm
I’m a member of the family (not the immediate family, but a cousin). I appreciate the kind things people have posted here, and I’m sure that her immediate family will also. I’ve spoken to them, and I know they are scared by the prospect of what could happen with the media as details of the story start to emerge. Thanks for being so quick to insert a bit of humanity into the story. If they do search for news, I hope they find this message board.
Posted by: Jamie | March 12, 2009, 7:53 pm 7:53 pm
Like Linda, we have known — since she was born. Our children are the same age. Shocked and saddened, we wish we could be there to support her family, our dear friends for almost thirty years.
Posted by: Jim and Suzanne | March 12, 2009, 8:08 pm 8:08 pm
I send much love to this wonderful family. They have to bear many burdens at this time, and I pray that God will give them peace and strength to make it through this most devastating news.
Posted by: TYR | March 12, 2009, 8:15 pm 8:15 pm
My heart goes out to the volunteer and her family and friends and to those in the village or town where she lived in Benin. I trust they are mourning too.
Such a tragedy.
Jessica Duke – RPCV Benin 1989 – 1991
Posted by: Jessica Duke | March 12, 2009, 8:45 pm 8:45 pm
Although not knowing the fallen volunteer personally,I reiterate the words of others and send my personal condolences to her family & friends in the United States as well as Benin. Many of those who have served understand the very individualistic experience only Peace Corps can offer, but the true power is meeting like-minded people with the same compassion for service and dedication to a cause. Today, we have lost one of our own – albeit in a distant land, the loss is nonetheless great in magnitude. My deepest sympathy to all whose lives were touched by her.
In Solidarity,
Joseph Dizoglio
PCV El Salvador 08-10
Posted by: Joseph Dizoglio | March 12, 2009, 8:48 pm 8:48 pm
My condolences to the volunteer, her family, the current Benin PCVs, and the villagers and students in her community who must also be devastated that this happened to their volunteer teacher. Having been a volunteer in Benin, myself, I am very saddened by the news.
Posted by: Suzy | March 12, 2009, 9:07 pm 9:07 pm
Horrible news! My thoughts and prayers go to her family, village, and all Benin Peace Corps volunteers and admin.
Posted by: Anne Wenstrom | March 12, 2009, 9:20 pm 9:20 pm
Son of mine is a PCV in Benin. What a horrific tragedy. Deepest condolences and prayers go out to her family and friends..
Posted by: Rose | March 12, 2009, 9:28 pm 9:28 pm
This is truly tragic. My thoughts are prayers are with her friends and family, and also with the Peace Corps community in Benin. There’s nothing that can be said to make it any less devastating, but I hope you are able to find comfort and courage to make it through this difficult time.
Autumn
RPCV Benin 04-06
Posted by: Autumn Notter | March 12, 2009, 10:13 pm 10:13 pm
Is the investigator a DSS agent on one of those five year contracts like the one guarding that CIA agent? Is he a Peace Corps Special OIG independent Agent under the new OIG policy? The local police report is available or is it classified like the one at Peace Corps?
Posted by: Katana | March 12, 2009, 10:56 pm 10:56 pm
I would never have believed this could happen in Benin. Please know that so many of us, known and unknown, are thinking of her now and our thoughts go out to her family and friends, American and Beninese.
Amanda Fogle-Donmoyer
RPCV Benin 04-06
Posted by: Amanda Fogle-Donmoyer | March 12, 2009, 11:23 pm 11:23 pm
We too are very close friends for 30 years and are devastated to hear about their loss. It’s a tragedy that an enthusiastic and bright young woman would give the beginning of her adult to help a village in Benin, only to have someone take her life away. We teach our children to be compassion and care for others who are less fortunate. It makes me angry! I am sending lots of love to help her family deal with losing their wonderful daughter!
Posted by: Sally | March 12, 2009, 11:33 pm 11:33 pm
I have known this family for years and was so proud of this young lady for being the kind person that she was. My heart goes out to her family and to all of her friends. May God give them peace in the midst of this tragedy and may the knowledge that she was a wonderful giving person give them comfort.
Posted by: Roz Fuller | March 12, 2009, 11:45 pm 11:45 pm
I am 99% sure I know this person but have not yet been able to determine if it is who I think it is based on the information given. Either way, I am incredibly saddened by this tragic news and have her friends, family, fellow volunteers, and students in mind.
Posted by: S | March 12, 2009, 11:48 pm 11:48 pm
How terribly sad. My love and thoughts are with the volunteer’s family and the people of her community in Benin. Let us remember our interconnectivity and resonate with love in this time of sadness.
Kelley
RPCV, Benin 2003-2005
Posted by: Kelley Calvert | March 13, 2009, 12:07 am 12:07 am
Our hearts are breaking as we learn this news. Our prayers are with her loving family. May the wonderful memories of this beautiful young lady help to ease the pain only a parent can understand. Please know that we’ve admired her for many years (from Middle school on)for her caring ways, her quick smile and her ability to make things better for others… in whatever she did. We know that is what she was doing everyday of her life. Her life was a very special gift to all of us.
Posted by: Keirs | March 13, 2009, 2:20 am 2:20 am
I just heard the news and it’s impossible to know what to do or think. She is my best friend, and has been for 15 years. She is by far one of the best people in the world and the world is poorer without her. My love to her and her family.
Posted by: Lera | March 13, 2009, 2:26 am 2:26 am
The world’s heart has been attacked today and will never be fully repaired.
Posted by: Kaye | March 13, 2009, 3:12 am 3:12 am
My family and I are close friends with the family and have been for many years. I wanted to send my greatest condolences to each and every single person that Knows the family. We Lost such a wonderful, amazing, inspiring Young lady who did many GREAT things for this world.I miss you and the family. I will keep you and your daughter in my Prayers.
xoxo
Love always,
Helen S.
Posted by: Helen | March 13, 2009, 3:14 am 3:14 am
I’m beside myself. My condolences and thoughts go out to everyone in the program.
Valentina
RPCV, Benin 2003-2005
Posted by: Valentina Devescovi | March 13, 2009, 4:11 am 4:11 am
This beautiful caring and giving woman will forever be loved by those who knew her. Her family is the kindest, most caring people my family has ever known. Our prayers and heart felt condolences go out to our dear friends. Life is full of risks, and sadly, there’s no way we can fully be sure our children (our ourselves) will be safe in this world.
We love you,
Cat and Dave
Posted by: Cathy and Dave Jones | March 13, 2009, 4:26 am 4:26 am
I have known this wonderful young lady since teaching her in sixth grade. A warm, loving, and giving family raised her to want to share all she had been given with others. The world has truly suffered an incredible loss. My heart and prayers go out to her family and friends. We have a new angel.
Posted by: Linda | March 13, 2009, 4:43 am 4:43 am
Whenever I think of Kate I recall a bright shining star with a heart full of goodness and as big the sun. Words to describe Kate are only positive as she was full of compassion, confidence, and completely professional even at a young age. We love you and are praying for your family.
Posted by: Popes | March 13, 2009, 4:45 am 4:45 am
We are so sad to hear of this tragedy and will pray for this wonderful family. The loss must be unbearable, but you raised a kind and caring young woman. She will live on in the hearts and minds of the people she touched. God bless you.
Posted by: Okinawa Friends | March 13, 2009, 5:31 am 5:31 am
This is truly tragic news … Our kids grew up with Kate and her older brother in Augsburg (Germany)in the mid-80′s / early 90′s, and her genuine sweetness was legendary even then. Our son & I had dinner with Kate and her dear, stalwart parents in Atlanta in AUG06 — Kate had just graduated from William & Mary, and had already applied to the Peace Corps. Her eye-filled smile verily lit up the room. What a loss …
Posted by: tom h | March 13, 2009, 6:07 am 6:07 am
My sincere condolences to the family. I just received the news from my son and daughter-in-law who are PC volunteers in Benin.
Posted by: granadaman | March 13, 2009, 6:39 am 6:39 am
I just want to say that my thoughts and prayers are with the entire family. I was married into the family just two years ago and I feel like I have lost a true and dear person. She always smiled with compassion and wanted to help the world. It is sad that she will not continue on our journey, for God has given her his own. I know that God was with her and still is. I just hope that her family will be ok and trust that God will lead them through this with love and memories that will never be forgotten. I love you guys and may God bless you!
Posted by: Jamers | March 13, 2009, 7:19 am 7:19 am
My prayers are with you friends, and my heart is heavy. I pray God will give you peace and strength for the days ahead. I know you were so proud of your daughter. It could be seen in your face whenever you would talk of her.
Posted by: EmiLou | March 13, 2009, 8:13 am 8:13 am
My thoughts and prayers are for her family and all those in Benin grieving today. In all my time there I never could imagine something like this would happen in one’s village…I’m truly shocked and saddened.
Erin
RPCV, Benin 2003-2005
Posted by: Erin Wasserman-McLaughlin | March 13, 2009, 8:20 am 8:20 am
To the Puzey family,
Your DODDS family from all over the world is grieving with you. May God bless you and sustain you.
Posted by: Nancy Almendras | March 13, 2009, 8:47 am 8:47 am
I don’t even know what to say. I am at a loss of words. My heart goes out to the family, for your loss and everything you have yet to endure. My heart also goes out to Benin, Peace Corps and all the people she was able to touch while in service. I’m so sorry…
Posted by: Michela Devescovi Chang | March 13, 2009, 9:10 am 9:10 am
When we first met Kate in 2003, we could see she was bright, brilliant and full of life. Our daughters quickly became inseparable and she soon became a daughter to us as well. We kept up with her adventures and amazing life experiences through our daughter, who always has and always will call Kate her very best friend and kindred spirit.
This is a tragedy almost too much to bear and our love, thoughts and prayers go out to her family. Kate touched every person she ever met and will be missed by everyone. She is a bright star in this world. Burning brilliantly, reaching the far corners, and disappearing too quickly. Her warmth, kind spirit and memory will live on.
Posted by: Germaines | March 13, 2009, 10:07 am 10:07 am
Why would this girl’s family allow her to go to Africa in the first place? It’s AFRICA…Wow.
Posted by: James | March 13, 2009, 10:11 am 10:11 am
Puzey Family: I am saddened by this terrible news. Kate was a bright beautiful woman doing what she does best. John and I feel fortunate to have known her here in Okinawa. We are so sad.
Posted by: Martha Stanton | March 13, 2009, 10:19 am 10:19 am
Tragic. I hope they catch the person, or people who did this. It also brings up the question why we have unarmed people over in those unstable countries volunteering. Those people make a disaster of their own countries (often with murders, violence, and corruption being the order of the day) and then we sent unarmed, hard working and honest (but often naive) over there to help those people? The program needs to be reexamined to avoid such tragic events.
Posted by: Ed | March 13, 2009, 10:20 am 10:20 am
To know Kate was to love her. I can barely believe this has happened. Our own daughter remains in Benin and I worry for all of the PCVs. My prayers go out to the Kate’s family and our incomprehensible loss.
Posted by: JAJohnson | March 13, 2009, 10:21 am 10:21 am
What a shock. I know that the Peace Corps Community and the Beninese who know the program are greatly suffering. I pray for all.
Posted by: Erika Kraus | March 13, 2009, 10:25 am 10:25 am
My sister just got sent to Benin in July and that is the one place our mother did not want her to go. When our mother called me this morning and broke the news she right away told me it was not my sister but, it still brought tears to my eyes. This poor girls parents. A little over a year ago we lost a sister and it was horrible. I just can’t believe it and I am so glad our goverment pulled them out. KB
Posted by: Kimberly | March 13, 2009, 10:37 am 10:37 am
This is truly devastating news. Kate was the kindest, most generous, and loving soul. She has been close to my family for years, and we will all miss her and her infectious laugh horribly. My heart is with her family in these dark times.
Posted by: Ilana | March 13, 2009, 11:00 am 11:00 am
I completely agree with Ed. Most of these volunteers are barely out of college, young, idealistic and naive. They barely have any experience doing the tasks they are assigned to in a political climate of war, disease, and poverty the roots of which they barely understand. It’s just not right.
Posted by: Eric | March 13, 2009, 11:01 am 11:01 am
Please, to those who would stir up the anti-Peace Corps messages:
I understand your outrage. But, you must believe that our friend, while young and idealistic, was not naive. Nor is Benin violent or war-torn. Yes, poverty is the order of the day, and with it disease and malnutrition. Those factors have nothing to do with this incident, and none of us here (including those like myself who are somewhat older than average) would agree that her idealism was a bad thing.
In fact, it’s often the only thing that keeps us going.
God bless you, KP, and your family.
Posted by: Jeff | March 13, 2009, 11:20 am 11:20 am
I was a Peace Corps Volunteer in Benin from 1999 to 2001 and I am shocked and saddened by this news. My heart goes out to the girl’s family and I also grieve for the people of Benin.
My service was not without its challenges – but I always felt embraced, supported and loved by the Beninese. This comes as such a shock because it is so uncharacteristic of the people of Benin.
Peace Corps was a life changing experience for me and so many others – my heart feels heavy today for this poor girl and her fellow PCVs who won’t have the same experience.
Posted by: Sara | March 13, 2009, 11:30 am 11:30 am
I am greatly dismayed by the comments which assume Benin to be a violent place. Benin is a stable, peaceful nation and acts of violence are rare and shocking to the Beninese people. I felt very safe and taken care of by both my community and Peace Corps during my two years in a rural post.
My thoughts are with the family, volunteers, and staff during this difficult time.
Posted by: Carrie | March 13, 2009, 11:53 am 11:53 am
Like so many of the others sending messages, Ollie and I were friends of the family and lived neighbors to them in Okinawa. I had her brother as a student in my Eng. class. They were both delightful, fun, bright-oh, so bright- kids. A delightful family! Such unbelievably tragic news this is. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all the family and all who also devote their lives doing good things. We are so very, very sorry.
Posted by: Marcine Wilson | March 13, 2009, 12:03 pm 12:03 pm
correction… we met her in 1993.
Posted by: Germaines | March 13, 2009, 12:15 pm 12:15 pm
Benin is a wonderful place. My heart goes out the Peace Corps Volunteers and staff who are currently serving there.
Posted by: Anne | March 13, 2009, 12:18 pm 12:18 pm
My daughter is also serving in the Peace Corps in Benin and our hearts are broken for this sweet young lady and her family. My daughter has only expressed the kindest words about her wonderful spirit and character. In reply to James who criticized mothers who send their kids to Africa my reply is this- this type of trajedy happens every day in the US. Wht would you discourage a child from doing a selfless service to others who are less fortunate? You are an incredibly insensitive person to blog your thoughts to a family who just lost their precioous daughter!
Posted by: Janet | March 13, 2009, 12:35 pm 12:35 pm
I knew this volunteer during my time as a PCV in Benin. She was a beautiful, sincere, informed, bright, and kind person. I am heartbroken by her death. My deepest prayers are with her friends and family.
To those who did not know the volunteer, or who do not know anything about Benin: the volunteer was not a cliche, and neither is the country of Benin. I can not imagine how devastated her friends and neighbors in Benin are. Our prayers are also with them as they come to terms with this unimaginable loss.
Posted by: Betsie | March 13, 2009, 12:37 pm 12:37 pm
I am so saddened by this news. My heart goes out to her family and the PC community.
Bridget
RPCV Niger 96-98
Posted by: Bridget | March 13, 2009, 12:51 pm 12:51 pm
My heart goes out to the family! My sister was a PVC in Benin a few years ago and often spoke of the love and support from those she served. This is a true tragedy.
Posted by: Katie | March 13, 2009, 1:04 pm 1:04 pm
My thoughts and prayers go to her family and friends. My heart goes out to them all and the PC/PC-Benin community.
Clare
RPCV Benin 04-06
Posted by: Clare | March 13, 2009, 1:31 pm 1:31 pm
I would like to give my personal condolences to the family and friends of this volunteer. I served a short time in Benin, I know that her village is suffering a great loss at this time.
Posted by: Bete | March 13, 2009, 1:43 pm 1:43 pm
FWIW … Aside from on the roads, I felt safer overall in Benin than I do in the US. Really.
Peace Corps does and excellent job of training volunteers for life in the countries they serve in.
I’d wager there are more homicides in metro Chicago in an average week than in a year in Benin, and the population sizes are comparable.
Please don’t belittle her memory, her family, nor the Beninese with your uninformed opinions.
Posted by: Tom Emmons | March 13, 2009, 1:52 pm 1:52 pm
Kate’s spirit is bright and it will continue to shine on in our hearts. She was a joy to be around, and will be greatly missed.
The circumstances surrounding her death are not yet understood, and I hope that a sense of injustice will not be twisted into a spirit of resentment against the people of Benin. The unimaginable act of a sick individual should not condemn the many generous and wonderful people here in Benin, some of whom loved and were loved by Kate like family. It would do a disservice to her memory.
Posted by: PCV Benin | March 13, 2009, 2:28 pm 2:28 pm
Just received word about this terrible news. Thoughts and prayers are being sent from all across the world to all her family and friends.
Posted by: PCV 2007-present | March 13, 2009, 2:51 pm 2:51 pm
Devastating. My thoughts and prayers are with her family, her community, and Benin volunteers past, present, and to come.
Katherine
Benin 04-07
Posted by: Katherine | March 13, 2009, 4:00 pm 4:00 pm
Bless the family of this young selfless woman who gave so freely of herself to help another. These young folks have made such sacrifices which makes them such special people to begin with. My heart is heavy with sadness …..
mother of a Benin volunteer.
Posted by: Andrea | March 13, 2009, 4:54 pm 4:54 pm
It is with such heavy hearts that we receive this news of Kate’s death. “Why?” is outside human understanding, but the question “How can we honor such a beautiful life?” now touches us. Our hearts are broken by this sad, sad news.
How could you not love Kate Puzey? In h.s. she graduated from girl to lady long before she gave her very special speech as the valedictorian of her class.
Harry, Lois and David, we join others in your DoDDS family in sending you our love, support, thoughts and prayers.
Posted by: John and Cheryl Dawson | March 13, 2009, 4:54 pm 4:54 pm
Much to this girl’s family, and the PCVs in Benin right now–wishing you moments of tranquility amidst this, and a modicum of peace in your hearts.
PCV Benin, 1999-2001
Posted by: PCV Benin, 99-01 | March 13, 2009, 5:31 pm 5:31 pm
I am saddened by the news of such a tragic event. My thoughts and prayers go out to her family, friends and fellow volunteers in Benin, as well as her village, where I am sure they are mourning her loss.
Melissa
Benin RPCV 2003-2005
Posted by: Melissa | March 13, 2009, 5:39 pm 5:39 pm
I am a relative and they are the most kind, compassionate, and selfless people I’ve ever known. She was an adult James, her parents didn’t “let” her go there. Please keep your insensitive comments to yourself and have some respect for a grieving family. God bless them.
Posted by: Kay | March 13, 2009, 5:48 pm 5:48 pm
Our sincerest condolences for the family and friends of Catherine. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Jason & Stacie
PCV Bulgaria 07-09
Posted by: Jason & Stacie Smith | March 13, 2009, 5:50 pm 5:50 pm
My son is also a PCV in Benin and tells me that she was a wonderful and exuberant person who always had a smile on her face. Our thoughts and prayers go out to her family.
Posted by: Joanna | March 13, 2009, 6:02 pm 6:02 pm
I knew Kate well in Benin, we met during the training and were quick friends. I was stationed just south of her in a town called Bassila. She lived in Badgudai (sp?), just outside Djougou which is an extremely pious Islamic town on the road to Natitangou. Kate was an English teacher and she was the best. She was so passionate. She was really into giving out condoms to the kids and even made an announcement at school that she would give free condoms to anyone who asked for them at her home. People were angry when they heard this. What a lovely person, I can’t believe it, I’m shocked. The people were different in Djougou though, from the friendly Beninoise most people knew. I ET’d in March, or I would have been there, just 30 miles down the road. Such a tragedy…. I’m just crushed.
Posted by: Emily Halgrimson | March 13, 2009, 6:14 pm 6:14 pm
This is just the saddest thing I can imagine. I am so sorry for your loss. You’re in my thoughts today and in the thoughts of every other current or former volunteer, too. We’re sitting here with you, feeling sadness. Much love.
Posted by: RPCV Guinea, '02-03 | March 13, 2009, 7:10 pm 7:10 pm
I’m disturbed by some of these comments. Hope for the future of humanity and working to help others does not go hand in hand with naivety.
Peace Corps volunteers receive extensive training in order to do their jobs, in addition to training in safety and security, health, and language. Many volunteers actually consider the Peace Corps to be too overprotective.
We cannot allow the actions of one or some to speak for the character of all. Tragedies and murders happen every day in the United States.
Peace Corps volunteers are strong, brave, intelligent, and compassionate human beings. They are sent abroad, not only to assist, but to serve as a positive representation of the United States, often times to people who have never met an American.
The last thing this lovely woman’s family needs is guilt over something that was ultimately her decision. Shame on you.
My heart goes out to Kate’s family, friends, and the people of Benin. I am so sorry for your loss.
Posted by: Nancy | March 13, 2009, 7:18 pm 7:18 pm
As friends of all the Puzey’s for 25 years this has been a sad, sad day. Darling baby Kate grew up to be a sweet, giving and joyous woman. I found their Christmas picture with the 4 of them in their matching shirts. What a beautiful family. I just put the picture in my wallet to hold that memory close. Lois, Harry, and David all your friends around the world are thinking about you night and day. We love you and can’t begin to express how devastated we are for you.
Posted by: jane bandy allen | March 13, 2009, 10:31 pm 10:31 pm
My thoughts and prayers go out to the Puzey family. I didn’t have the privilege to know Kate, but I know that the vast majority of the Beninese people are grateful for and protective of “their” Volunteers. In my two years in Bassila, just south of Badjoude, I was received as a daughter, as I’m sure Kate was. Please know that your daughter made a difference in the world and changed the lives of hundreds of children by giving them a glimpse of their own potential. No one can take that away from them – or from Kate.
My sincerest condolences for the loss of a beautiful, giving person.
Posted by: Jen Nicholas Walvoord | March 13, 2009, 11:35 pm 11:35 pm
My daughter spent over two years in Togo, West Africa in the Peace Corps and she often crossed the border into Benin. She was there when the President of the country died and 40,000 people literally walked out of the country while others were killed in their homes. She was never afraid and felt very protected by the locals in her village. A friend of hers was murdered in Georgia at an Air Force Base, just before she left for Africa. Murders do not just happen in Africa. This is a horrible tragedy and my heart goes out to Kate’s family and friends. My prayers are with them.
Posted by: Lois | March 14, 2009, 12:29 am 12:29 am
As a co-worker of Lois’, I know how worried she was when her daughter left for Africa, but she knew that it was what her daughter wanted. Tragedy happens everywhere. There is nothing more important than helping people who are less fortunate and giving of oneself. I send my love and condolences to Lois and her family.
Donna
Posted by: Donna Meyer | March 14, 2009, 10:35 am 10:35 am
Our daughter is also a PCV in Benin. She called us crying and informed us of the tragic loss. She and her post mates were scared, confused, shocked but most of all saddened by this loss as were her Beninese friends.
Our daughter has related may instances of her life in Benin. Many have been about the extreme generosity of the Beninese people who will share everything and anything with the PCV volunteers while having so little themselves. She relates that the PCV may have come to teach but in sharing have learned so much about cultures other than ours. The are some of our best representatives that this country can send abroad.
Given what I have heard and learned about Benin, this is tradgey is very much out of character in this land.
Words are inadequate to express our condolences to the family and those who knew Kate. Know that as we pray for our daughter and her PCV mates we also offer prayers of comfort and solodarity with Kate’s family. May God bless them and keep their daughter’s memory ever in their minds.
Posted by: John and Lois | March 14, 2009, 9:08 pm 9:08 pm
Harry, Lois, David,
I am saddened to hear about your incredible loss! Kate was truly a remarkable young woman. I have been reading her blog and looking at her photos this afternoon. She had developed into a gifted young writer. Judging by the experiences she posted, she must have truly loved her peace corps experience. She was making a positive difference for the people of Benin. Judging by the comments on this blog, she was also well -loved by her peace corps colleagues. I am so sorry for your incredible loss. My prayers are with you! Liz S
Posted by: Elizabeth Skarshaug | March 14, 2009, 9:29 pm 9:29 pm
We are devastated and deeply saddened by this news. As many others have expressed, this young lady was and will always remain special to all those she touched. Our hearts are heavy with grief for her loving family and all those she left behind. She left us doing something that she believed in, and leaves this world a better place for the time she spent impacting others’ lives. We know you are of strong faith. Our continued thoughts and prayers are with you at this time-we along with so many others, are here for you always. Love and prayers, The Hobbs’family
Posted by: Leslie H | March 14, 2009, 10:08 pm 10:08 pm
A volunteer is a member of our Peace Corps extended family no matter when and where they serve. I am so terribly sorry and saddened to hear of this terrible death. Events like this are aberrations and not the norm in this lovely country. Benin is truly a gentle nation of caring people. Sometimes, bad things happen without cause or reason. I know that the families- Beninese and Peace Corps, and the family of Kate will pull together and provide care and support in loving memory of her. My love and prayers.. Ofa atu- Tricia
Posted by: Tricia | March 15, 2009, 1:43 am 1:43 am
My condolences to Kate’s family, friends, and the Beninois who lived with and loved her also. She lived her last days engaged in the most noblest pursuit – giving to, sharing community with, and working among the poor. Please understand that for every Peace Corps Volunteer who encounters an act of violence, there are many, many more who arrive home safe. God and Allah bless Kate. The Puzey family will stay in my prayers.
Tracy Hart
Mauritania ’87-’89
President,Friends of Mauritania .
Posted by: Tracy Hart | March 15, 2009, 2:17 pm 2:17 pm
I have known this wonderful family since 1973 in Wiesbaden, Germany. All four of them took me into their lives in a very special way when we lived in Okinawa. I can not find words to express my sorrow for their loss of such an exceptional young woman.
Posted by: Carolyn Smith | March 15, 2009, 4:33 pm 4:33 pm
My heart is broken for you. My daughter Ashley has been in Zambia as a pcv for just under a month. I am absolutely stricken. We live in the Atlanta area and if there is anything I can do for you please let me know.
Margot Hamilton Ga.
Posted by: Margot | March 15, 2009, 5:56 pm 5:56 pm
while i did not know kate, i am deeply saddened by this terrible tragedy. i know that volunteers and RPCVs worldwide feel that she was one of our sisters, in a family that transcends country borders and bloodlines. by her beautiful blog and photos, i see that she was an extraordinary woman, and made a very positive impact on her community in benin.
my heart and prayers go out to the friends and family of miss puzey. reading the comments above, i know she left a sparkling impact on each and every person she touched. her posted words have reminded me of what beauty and wonder life in our adopted community brings to our lives, and for that i thank her.
megan burkhart
RPCV tanzania 2005-2007
Posted by: megan | March 16, 2009, 2:27 am 2:27 am
As an RPCV in Benin who served as a teacher in a nearby village and who’s currently working in West Africa I was incredibly saddened to hear this news, on many levels. Sad that someone so young and open-minded died while trying to learn about the world and serving Benin. Sad for the grief and conflicted feelings her family and friends must be experiencing. Sad for those good people in her village, who are no doubt mourning her loss. Sad that some people who have never lived in Africa and who have never had the rich and challenging experience of Peace Corps will now become even more fearful of both. May Kate’s life serve as a testament. May people understand that her time, though met by a tragic end, was well spent in bringing her students a window to the world that wouldn’t have had otherwise and that she learned from them too. And may Kate’s family find peace and support, as they are most deserving of it.
Posted by: LR | March 16, 2009, 10:13 am 10:13 am
Our dearest Kate, no brighter smile, no bigger heart, with forever a driven passion to give…whether a classroom, a campus, at home, or in a foreign land, Kate made a positive difference in people’s lives. My heart aches with the inability to find the words to comfort Lois and Harry and David…may they know that the world-wide DoDDS family shares in their grief. In time, may the pain and sorrow be replaced with celebration of a life, filled with the fondest of memories of our cherished Kate.
God Bless, Ed Stevens
Posted by: Ed Stevens | March 16, 2009, 10:17 am 10:17 am
My thoughts and condolences go out to Kate’s family.
I did not know Kate or know her family. I am an RPCV that served in Guatemala from 00-02, and Kate seems to have had many of the characteristics of volunteers who have a passion for what they are doing and the people they are serving while in the Peace Corps. It is an amazing experience being an integral part of another community in a country in great need in so many ways….to which thousands of Peace Corps volunteers over decades can attest.
Kate seems to have contributed such a great amount of her persona and her many talents to this country. The community members where she lived will be appreciative for a lifetime. I can guarantee you that her work will not be forgotten.
Sincerely,
Sara
Posted by: Sara | March 16, 2009, 6:55 pm 6:55 pm
To the Puzey Family,
Our daughter Nikki is serving the Peace Corps in Benin. She was friends with Kate and spoke of her with the highest regards. Her post in Djougou, not far from Kate. I have been following these comments since day one. my heart was too heavy and broken to write, somehow I finally found the courage. No words can express our family saddness. We wish your family peace and peace to all the volunteers and friends in Benin and all over the world. They sacrifice so much. And their families too. We as parents try to be supportive in what our children do even though sometimes we are scared and don’t agree for the descions they make. But in the end they make us so proud. The world needs to know the volunteers in Africa are making it a better place to live, without them Africa would never progress. You should be proud of your daughters accomplishments.. It takes a very special person to do all that she did. She defintely made her mark in the world. I know your daughters legacy will live on forever. She touched the hearts of everyone including my daughter.
God Bless yor family.
Donna and Garry Schroyer -Ohio
Posted by: Donna | March 18, 2009, 12:17 am 12:17 am
My thoughts and prayers go out to Harry, Lois, and David during this time in the tragic loss of your beloved, Kate. She touched the hearts of so many people around the world and her memory will live on by all who were privileged to meet her. I remember her as a small child in Germany kicking the soccer ball and in Okinawa as a teen with so many dreams for her future.
She will be forever missed but is now wrapped safely in the arms of God.
Posted by: Karen S | March 18, 2009, 11:21 pm 11:21 pm
Lois, Harry and David
Remember that many others are thinking of you and adding their strength to yours during this time. Our memories of Kate will offer us all comfort and peace. You are in our thoughts, now and in the days to come.
Ruth and Charles
Posted by: Ruth and Charles | March 19, 2009, 12:58 pm 12:58 pm
Dear Puzey Family,
My heart goes out to you at this extremely difficult time. Please know you are in the thoughts and prayers of people around the world. I have been reading Kate’s blog and looking at her wonderful pictures. What a compassionate, strong, committed and lovely lady – you should be very, very proud. Her life was an inspiration to us all.
My daughter Lucy is a PCV in Benin, not too far from Kate’s village. She and the other volunteers are devastated by the loss of a good friend, but Kate will be right beside each of them as they continue on with the work she so loved.
Libby T
Posted by: Libby Trezise | March 20, 2009, 1:04 pm 1:04 pm