Rev. Mahn Coaly Krua

Beloved father, pastor, and educator in Boston's Liberian community

Rev. Mahn C. Krua Sr., beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, pastor, and educator, went home to be with the Lord at the age of 101. Born in Gbaseh Town, Grand Bassa County, Liberia, to Laytaye Liban Krua and Saywah Krua—nationally licensed traditional healers by Pres. Edwin J. Barclay’s administration—Rev. Krua’s roots trace back to Toweh Town, Nimba County. His life was a remarkable journey of faith, perseverance, service, and an unwavering commitment to human dignity.

From humble beginnings, Rev. Krua embraced Christianity under the mentorship of evangelist Garduah Gbaryou in Graie Township. His passion for the Gospel led him to establish the first church in Graie—Bethel Baptist Church—a place of worship that endures to this day. Trained in biblical studies at the Mid-Baptist Mission in Tappita, he overcame racial discrimination and limited access to formal education from American missionaries blinded by U.S. racial segregationist traditions and Jim Crow Laws. These challenges only strengthened his determination to fight for educational opportunities for Liberia’s children.

In 1960, Rev. Krua and his devoted wife Esther Krua, along with a team of committed evangelists, founded the Ziah Mission School in Tappita District, Nimba County. Built with meager resources and the labor of its founders, who carried materials 17 kilometers over rugged roads, the school became a beacon of hope for rural Liberians. As the school’s founding principal, Rev. Krua guided generations of students who would grow to become doctors, nurses, engineers, and leaders both in Liberia and internationally.

Rev. Krua was innovative and selfless, planting cash crops to support students unable to pay tuition, and tirelessly expanding the school even in his later years. He envisioned the Ziah Mission School as a premier educational institution, adding classrooms, a library, and laboratories to nurture future world leaders. 

Following Liberia’s civil war, Rev. Krua and his family relocated to the United States in 1992, where he continued his ministry. Serving alongside Rev. Dr. Michael E. Haynes at the historic 12th Baptist Church in Boston, Massachusetts—a pulpit once graced by Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.—he championed refugee communities, preached in his native Dan language, and promoted human dignity.

On his 101st birthday, May 7, 2025, Rev. Krua received Congressional Recognition from U.S. Senator Ed Markey for his lifetime dedication to education, human rights, and humanitarian service.

Rev. Mahn C. Krua Sr.’s life exemplified faith in action. His ministry and educational work were rooted in the belief that every child deserves an opportunity to learn and grow spiritually. He leaves a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire generations.

He was predeceased by his first wife, Esther Krua, and his second wife, Betty Krua, whom he married at age 87. He is survived by 15 children, numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren, several spiritual children, and countless former students who carry forward his teachings and example.

"Well done, good and faithful servant… enter into the joy of your Lord." — Matthew 25:23

In lieu of flowers, the family requests support for Rev. Krua’s lifelong work: the completion and expansion of Ziah Mission School. Donations may be made online at ziahmissionschool.gvtls.com.