Words of Love &
Remembrance

We at Duran Intermediaries Limited are deeply sorry for the loss of your mother.Your mother's love and light will remain with you forever by the special Grace of God Almighty. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. We hope and believe that the love and support of those of us around you will help you through this difficult time.Keep staying strong for the rest of the family who are looking up to you.May your mother's soul rest in solemn peace in the bossom of the Lord. Amen.

It is still hard to believe that you have left this earth. I was so fond of you, and we shared many beautiful moments together—memories that will not fade in a hurry.I often find myself wondering who will call me “Mama Port Harcourt” the way you used to, so fondly. Sometimes, I still reach for my phone to call you, forgetting that you are no longer here.You were truly special to me, and your absence is deeply felt.Till we meet to part no more, continue to rest in peace.

Today, I write a tribute and light a candle in great honor and memory of one of the greatest mother's I've ever known!I got to know Mummy through Reri her daughter, but she eventually also became a great mother to me!Muummmy...as I fondly called you, ...you were a great mother to ALL indeed ... not only to your biological children!!Your presence always exuded so much joy and love. I excitedly always looked forward to seeing you. There was always something new and good to learn from you while enjoying your unremarkably delicious itsekiri meals and listening to some good motherly stories, advice, proverbs and great words of wisdom!You were so sweet, peaceful and above all one of the most accommodating humans I've ever known!!You were an epitome of kindness and large heartedness personified...!!!I really can go on and on....as words truly fail me to describe you!Your demise was a rude shock to me as I looked forward to physically seeing you again and enjoying your display of warmth and love over and again.I however take solace in the fact that to live in the hearts of those you love is not to die!Continue to enjoy your well deserved heavenly abode resting there in perfect peace!You remain forever loved ... your memory ever blessed, beautiful and forever cherished!!My wife (As you fondly called me)

Dear mama Kina, as you are fondly known by everyone in kolokolo community, I remember in the ‘80s each time you visited from the city to see your mom, (Mama Amamah) your aunt (Mama Amitèh) and uncle (Pa Asamah) of blessed memories.I and your kid sister (late Anna) aka Amaju always run errands for you.The last time I saw you was at Gulf senior staff club Warri, when I visited to write job aptitude test interview, where you worked as canteen chef back in ‘93/ ‘94, long after I left Kolokolo in search of greener pasture.The moment you saw me, you alerted and introduced me to everyone including your staff, you were so happy to see me, and the rest was history.Dear mama Kina, you once cheated death in an automobile accident that almost took your life, the scar you carried till death, how I wished this also pass over you, but who are we to question God.Dear mama Kina, you gave your best to society and humanity, your vacuum will always be felt by those lives you touched in kolokolo community and beyond.My condolences to the immediate families and kolokolo community.May mama beautiful soul continue to rest peacefully in the bosom of the Lord In Jesus Name.Adieu mama Kina.

Our dearly beloved mother in-law, we celebrate your life well lived to God’s Glory.She was gentle, humble, compassionate and a God-fearing woman. Your beautiful legacy of love lives on through the lives of those you touched directly and indirectly you are sorely missed and will be always and forever in our hearts. May the Angels lead you to your Heavenly and find peace with the Lord.Adieu still the resurrection morning, may your gentle soul rest in perfect peace. AMEN!!!

(Nee Okotie)On behalf of the entire family of Late Mrs. Katherine F. Osahon (Nee Oise), I commiserate with you on the death of your mother (our in law) Mrs. Beatrice K. Ogbetuo. We share in your grief while extending our deepest sympathy to the entire family, we pray God to give you the courage to bear the vacuum this irreparable loss will create, with divine fortitude. May you be consoled by the words of 1st Thessalonians 4: 13 which states that you should not be ignorant brethren, concerning those which are asleep, that you sorrow not as others who have no hope. May her beautiful soul rest in peace with the Almighty God.

Writing your tribute has been such a painful exercise, not for want of what to write but for the vacuum your death has and will continue to create. It has almost cut off part of my root and made it difficult for easy access and continuity.Your passing has bought back the memories of my childhood; the gap and void of not knowing my biological parents at an early age until adolescence. You effectively stepped in and filled that void with love, care and concern of a big sister in place of a mother. My life has been greatly impacted by your diligence, orderliness and neatness, which were your unmistakable hallmarks. You were my confident and counsellor, always willing to accommodate my excesses growing up as a child.I will greatly miss you, but I take solace in the fact that you have fulfilled the number of your days for. " Known unto God are all His works from the foundation of the world ".I Pray for the children that the Grace of God will be sufficient for them to bear the loss, and the Lord will fill the vacuum your departure has created in the family.IT IS WELL

There was once a woman. She was a mother to my father and aunts, a mother-in-law to my mother and my uncle, and a grandmom to me, my siblings and my cousins. But she was also loved by those who weren’t family and by the great friends she had.She was a woman of tradition and culture. I remember the days that she would go to the busy and lively markets of Nigeria just to find the rarest and most delicious meals. She always knew how to express her culture in every meal. And my father and her would speak their language, The language that I am learning bit by bit.I remember the days that my parents would leave her in charge. My brother and I would have issues. She always knew how to solve it, no matter how big it was. I also remember how we would watch shows with her.The most precious memory was when she used to call me “Chief Ogbes” that might be a random nickname in the ears of others, but in my ears that is my identity.This woman was the solution to my problems. The name of this woman is Madam Beatrice Kina Ogbetuo. May you rest in peace, Grandma.

There are no words large enough to hold everything you were to me, Mum. But I will try, because you deserve to be celebrated — not just as a mother, but as the most remarkable soul I have ever known.You were peace, personified. Your love was never small or selective, it stretched beyond our family walls and wrapped itself around everyone fortunate enough to truly know you. You had a gift for making people feel seen, feel valued, and feel at home in your presence. That was just who you were.I think often of how close I came to losing you far too soon — the day you had an automobile accident on your way back from Port Harcourt. You had come all that way to see me, as you always did. Even the thought of it still shakes me.You were never afraid to cross any distance for my sake, whether it was the road to Port Harcourt or the journey to Ibadan to visit me as a child. You showed up, always. That was your language of love.And though life had its moments, its frustrations and its weight, you never let them harden you. Your gentle spirit always found its way back. You never let any quarrel, any tension, outlast the day. You chose grace every single time, especially with us, your children.You were my safe place, Mum. Whenever I was overwhelmed, or uncertain about the road ahead, I knew I could come to you. You always had a word of calm, a way forward, a solution I hadn’t thought of. You steadied me more times than you probably knew.And then there are the little things I will treasure forever, the moments that were so perfect and unique. Like the times where I missed your call and called you back, only to be greeted with that familiar voice: “Wetin you hear?” — that loving, half-playful demand to know why I hadn’t picked up. I smile even now thinking about it. I always will.Thank you for those trips to Kolokolo to see Grandma, and to Koko to visit Granddad's compound. Those memories live in me like heirlooms.Mama, your legacy is far greater than motherhood alone. You lived your life in service — to your family, to those around you, to love itself. You leave behind not just children who miss you, but people whose lives are better, deeper, and richer because you passed through them.Rest in perfect peace, Mama. Your light does not go out; it lives on in all of us who carry you.

Grandma, I love you more than words can describe, and I will forever miss our peaceful walks in the park and the sound of you calling me JunJun. I will always crave your amazing cooking and the unique way you sang my name and warmth you sang it with. Your presence was a constant source of joy, you never failed to make me laugh. I have deep gratitude for the way you cared for me when I was younger. You are the definition of a caring soul and will always put our needs before your own, you taught me what unconditional love truly looks like. My heart will always treasure every moment we spent together, and I will miss you forever.Love now and always.

She fondly called me “Mrs Ogbe’s”; her affectionate abbreviation of Ogbetuo.Every time she said it, it came with warmth, familiarity, and love. It was her way of drawing me in, of making me feel truly accepted.From the very first day, she received me with a kindness that was natural and effortless. She was warm, genuinely warm, and so pleasant.Over time, she became more than a mother-in-law to me, she became a mother in every way that mattered.When I lost my mum in 2021, she stepped in with a quiet strength and compassion that I will never forget. She brought comfort and peace, her presence gave me rest; rest in my spirit, rest in my heart.Knowing she was there meant everything.She had such a thoughtful and generous nature. In everything she did, you could see her intentionality. Whenever she came visiting, she never came empty-handed. She would share everything equally between both homes, and still set something aside just for me, because she knew what I liked. That was who she was.I always looked forward to her visits. It brought a sense of joy and relief, when grandma is around, everything felt right.She was an exceptional cook; truly gifted. Having spent 19 years as a chef at Chevron, rising to the position of Head Chef, excellence was second nature to her. Whenever she was coming to stay with us, I would already be making my list of her dishes I craved, because I knew the house was about to be filled with delicious meals, warmth, and laughter.I always look forward to our story time, she was a wonderful storyteller, with what I would describe as an autobiographical memory.She recalled events from years ago, with clarity and excitement. She would tell me stories from her younger days, her life and journey as though they happened yesterday. Those moments meant so much to me.She was very receptive and approachable, full of wisdom, full of life lessons, always sharing, and always guiding.Her true nature was always revealed in advices she gave. Her mantra throughout the course of her life is “A mother should be conscious of the seeds she sows.”Sometimes she said things I didn’t fully understand at the time. But as the years went by and life unfolded, I would remember her words and realise, she was right. She had seen life. She understood it deeply.If you called her at night to share an important information, she would simply say, “nightand day don’t go together, call me in the morning.” And that would be the end of it.I found it so amusing. But over time, I realised how much she influenced me. I catch myself saying the same things, sometimes jokingly “night and day don’t go together, let’s talk in the morning.”That’s the kind of impact she had, quiet, lasting, and deeply positive in ways I can’t fully express.When I had my children, she stepped in fully and made everything easier. She cared for me in the most thorough and loving ways. She was nurturing, attentive, and always intentional about my well-being.As a grandmother, she was simply amazing. The children adored her deeply. Her presence gave us complete peace of mind.When she wasn’t with us, we had a rhythm, a beautiful tradition. Saturdays were for grandma.No matter how busy the week had been, we always made time to speak with her. The children especially looked forward to it. They would ask eagerly,“Is it Saturday? Are we calling grandma today?”It was always such a beautiful moment, simple, yet deeply meaningful.And now, when I think about it, I find myself saying…“It’s been so many Saturdays without speaking to grandma.”That reality is difficult to grasp.But even in her absence, we hold on to the love she gave so freely, the wisdom she shared so generously, and the memories we will carry forever.Indeed, when our loved ones are gone, memory is all we have left, she will live on foreverMummy your kindness was not occasional, your compassion was natural, effortless, and abundant and I will always remember you; with love, with gratitude, and with honour. Rest in Peace Mummy.YOUR ONE AND ONLY DAUGHTER IN-LAW.

Grandma You were So kind to me, you were the best! It’s so sad to see you leave.I can never forget those times you would always come to visit. It is so sad that you are not around to visit anymore. I always loved all those sweet foods you made like your sweet egusi and the time you always brought popo garri. You would always love to take me to the salon to make my hair, you are a super grandma, I loved when You called me mememe! I love you so-so much. May your soul rest in perfect peace!I cherish all the moments with you. I love you.

You were the purest form of love I’ve ever known. You gave your all to your children, and even more to your grandchildren, without ever needing anything in return. Your love was calming, your love was reassuring, your love was a covering, your love was one of my greatest blessings.The wisest woman I know, always giving advice in the form of parables. There was no problem brought to you that you couldn’t find a solution for. A true homemaker, with your endless list of things I should and shouldn’t do when I get to my husband’s house.“You be girl ohh, you no be boy, you go be woman one day,”or“Oya get up, woman no de sleep till day break,”you would say so fondly.I only wish you had more time to see and celebrate the woman I’m becoming.You raised me, shaped me, and held my hand through every high and low the world threw at me. The greatest chef, there was no delicacy you couldn’t make. So many kitchen tips and tricks I’ve learned from you. So hospitable, no one ever came around you that you didn’t care for, even down to artisans. If kindness, selflessness, and sacrifice were in human form, it would be you.Thank you for the gift of my mother. Thank you for being her best friend, her partner in everything, and her confidant. Thank you for the gift of my Uncle Bawo and Aunty Pat, the truest form of family anyone could ever ask for.Thank you for the laughter, the kind that comes from deep within, filled with your Waffi humor and playful yabs. Thank you, Mama, for your time, for the years you sacrificed for us. Thank you for your protection and your endless prayers.Oh, Mama, I still can’t believe I now have to speak of you in the past. Like you always said, “Onoriode, no one knows tomorrow.” I’m grateful I got to tell you and show you how much you meant to me while you were still here.You weren’t just a grandmother, you were my mother, my guiding light, and my protector. I find comfort in the memories of you and the words you left in our hearts and minds.Rest well, Mama. In another lifetime, I would still choose you. They say when a great tree falls, the earth shakes, but its seeds live on, proudly one of those seeds.

Madam Charismatic Beatrice Kena Ogbetuo (Nee Okotie) you have left too soon.Why not I before you? Your departure was a shocker.Death is an inevitable factor in life of all human existence.Farewell, we shall meet again at the feet of our Lord - Amen.Beatrice, while you are at rest and sleep in "Perfect Peace", your beautiful daughters, Reri and Pat and your handsome son Bawo are thinking of their "Sweet Mother" now in the bosom of God.O 'Beulah land, sweet Beulah land As on thy highest mount it stand She was taken away across the sea Where mansions are prepared for her And view the shining glory shore: her heaven, her home for evermore

We at Duran Intermediaries Limited are deeply sorry for the loss of your mother.Your mother's love and light will remain with you forever by the special Grace of God Almighty. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. We hope and believe that the love and support of those of us around you will help you through this difficult time.Keep staying strong for the rest of the family who are looking up to you.May your mother's soul rest in solemn peace in the bossom of the Lord. Amen.

It is still hard to believe that you have left this earth. I was so fond of you, and we shared many beautiful moments together—memories that will not fade in a hurry.I often find myself wondering who will call me “Mama Port Harcourt” the way you used to, so fondly. Sometimes, I still reach for my phone to call you, forgetting that you are no longer here.You were truly special to me, and your absence is deeply felt.Till we meet to part no more, continue to rest in peace.

Today, I write a tribute and light a candle in great honor and memory of one of the greatest mother's I've ever known!I got to know Mummy through Reri her daughter, but she eventually also became a great mother to me!Muummmy...as I fondly called you, ...you were a great mother to ALL indeed ... not only to your biological children!!Your presence always exuded so much joy and love. I excitedly always looked forward to seeing you. There was always something new and good to learn from you while enjoying your unremarkably delicious itsekiri meals and listening to some good motherly stories, advice, proverbs and great words of wisdom!You were so sweet, peaceful and above all one of the most accommodating humans I've ever known!!You were an epitome of kindness and large heartedness personified...!!!I really can go on and on....as words truly fail me to describe you!Your demise was a rude shock to me as I looked forward to physically seeing you again and enjoying your display of warmth and love over and again.I however take solace in the fact that to live in the hearts of those you love is not to die!Continue to enjoy your well deserved heavenly abode resting there in perfect peace!You remain forever loved ... your memory ever blessed, beautiful and forever cherished!!My wife (As you fondly called me)

Dear mama Kina, as you are fondly known by everyone in kolokolo community, I remember in the ‘80s each time you visited from the city to see your mom, (Mama Amamah) your aunt (Mama Amitèh) and uncle (Pa Asamah) of blessed memories.I and your kid sister (late Anna) aka Amaju always run errands for you.The last time I saw you was at Gulf senior staff club Warri, when I visited to write job aptitude test interview, where you worked as canteen chef back in ‘93/ ‘94, long after I left Kolokolo in search of greener pasture.The moment you saw me, you alerted and introduced me to everyone including your staff, you were so happy to see me, and the rest was history.Dear mama Kina, you once cheated death in an automobile accident that almost took your life, the scar you carried till death, how I wished this also pass over you, but who are we to question God.Dear mama Kina, you gave your best to society and humanity, your vacuum will always be felt by those lives you touched in kolokolo community and beyond.My condolences to the immediate families and kolokolo community.May mama beautiful soul continue to rest peacefully in the bosom of the Lord In Jesus Name.Adieu mama Kina.

Our dearly beloved mother in-law, we celebrate your life well lived to God’s Glory.She was gentle, humble, compassionate and a God-fearing woman. Your beautiful legacy of love lives on through the lives of those you touched directly and indirectly you are sorely missed and will be always and forever in our hearts. May the Angels lead you to your Heavenly and find peace with the Lord.Adieu still the resurrection morning, may your gentle soul rest in perfect peace. AMEN!!!

(Nee Okotie)On behalf of the entire family of Late Mrs. Katherine F. Osahon (Nee Oise), I commiserate with you on the death of your mother (our in law) Mrs. Beatrice K. Ogbetuo. We share in your grief while extending our deepest sympathy to the entire family, we pray God to give you the courage to bear the vacuum this irreparable loss will create, with divine fortitude. May you be consoled by the words of 1st Thessalonians 4: 13 which states that you should not be ignorant brethren, concerning those which are asleep, that you sorrow not as others who have no hope. May her beautiful soul rest in peace with the Almighty God.

Writing your tribute has been such a painful exercise, not for want of what to write but for the vacuum your death has and will continue to create. It has almost cut off part of my root and made it difficult for easy access and continuity.Your passing has bought back the memories of my childhood; the gap and void of not knowing my biological parents at an early age until adolescence. You effectively stepped in and filled that void with love, care and concern of a big sister in place of a mother. My life has been greatly impacted by your diligence, orderliness and neatness, which were your unmistakable hallmarks. You were my confident and counsellor, always willing to accommodate my excesses growing up as a child.I will greatly miss you, but I take solace in the fact that you have fulfilled the number of your days for. " Known unto God are all His works from the foundation of the world ".I Pray for the children that the Grace of God will be sufficient for them to bear the loss, and the Lord will fill the vacuum your departure has created in the family.IT IS WELL

There was once a woman. She was a mother to my father and aunts, a mother-in-law to my mother and my uncle, and a grandmom to me, my siblings and my cousins. But she was also loved by those who weren’t family and by the great friends she had.She was a woman of tradition and culture. I remember the days that she would go to the busy and lively markets of Nigeria just to find the rarest and most delicious meals. She always knew how to express her culture in every meal. And my father and her would speak their language, The language that I am learning bit by bit.I remember the days that my parents would leave her in charge. My brother and I would have issues. She always knew how to solve it, no matter how big it was. I also remember how we would watch shows with her.The most precious memory was when she used to call me “Chief Ogbes” that might be a random nickname in the ears of others, but in my ears that is my identity.This woman was the solution to my problems. The name of this woman is Madam Beatrice Kina Ogbetuo. May you rest in peace, Grandma.

There are no words large enough to hold everything you were to me, Mum. But I will try, because you deserve to be celebrated — not just as a mother, but as the most remarkable soul I have ever known.You were peace, personified. Your love was never small or selective, it stretched beyond our family walls and wrapped itself around everyone fortunate enough to truly know you. You had a gift for making people feel seen, feel valued, and feel at home in your presence. That was just who you were.I think often of how close I came to losing you far too soon — the day you had an automobile accident on your way back from Port Harcourt. You had come all that way to see me, as you always did. Even the thought of it still shakes me.You were never afraid to cross any distance for my sake, whether it was the road to Port Harcourt or the journey to Ibadan to visit me as a child. You showed up, always. That was your language of love.And though life had its moments, its frustrations and its weight, you never let them harden you. Your gentle spirit always found its way back. You never let any quarrel, any tension, outlast the day. You chose grace every single time, especially with us, your children.You were my safe place, Mum. Whenever I was overwhelmed, or uncertain about the road ahead, I knew I could come to you. You always had a word of calm, a way forward, a solution I hadn’t thought of. You steadied me more times than you probably knew.And then there are the little things I will treasure forever, the moments that were so perfect and unique. Like the times where I missed your call and called you back, only to be greeted with that familiar voice: “Wetin you hear?” — that loving, half-playful demand to know why I hadn’t picked up. I smile even now thinking about it. I always will.Thank you for those trips to Kolokolo to see Grandma, and to Koko to visit Granddad's compound. Those memories live in me like heirlooms.Mama, your legacy is far greater than motherhood alone. You lived your life in service — to your family, to those around you, to love itself. You leave behind not just children who miss you, but people whose lives are better, deeper, and richer because you passed through them.Rest in perfect peace, Mama. Your light does not go out; it lives on in all of us who carry you.

Grandma, I love you more than words can describe, and I will forever miss our peaceful walks in the park and the sound of you calling me JunJun. I will always crave your amazing cooking and the unique way you sang my name and warmth you sang it with. Your presence was a constant source of joy, you never failed to make me laugh. I have deep gratitude for the way you cared for me when I was younger. You are the definition of a caring soul and will always put our needs before your own, you taught me what unconditional love truly looks like. My heart will always treasure every moment we spent together, and I will miss you forever.Love now and always.

She fondly called me “Mrs Ogbe’s”; her affectionate abbreviation of Ogbetuo.Every time she said it, it came with warmth, familiarity, and love. It was her way of drawing me in, of making me feel truly accepted.From the very first day, she received me with a kindness that was natural and effortless. She was warm, genuinely warm, and so pleasant.Over time, she became more than a mother-in-law to me, she became a mother in every way that mattered.When I lost my mum in 2021, she stepped in with a quiet strength and compassion that I will never forget. She brought comfort and peace, her presence gave me rest; rest in my spirit, rest in my heart.Knowing she was there meant everything.She had such a thoughtful and generous nature. In everything she did, you could see her intentionality. Whenever she came visiting, she never came empty-handed. She would share everything equally between both homes, and still set something aside just for me, because she knew what I liked. That was who she was.I always looked forward to her visits. It brought a sense of joy and relief, when grandma is around, everything felt right.She was an exceptional cook; truly gifted. Having spent 19 years as a chef at Chevron, rising to the position of Head Chef, excellence was second nature to her. Whenever she was coming to stay with us, I would already be making my list of her dishes I craved, because I knew the house was about to be filled with delicious meals, warmth, and laughter.I always look forward to our story time, she was a wonderful storyteller, with what I would describe as an autobiographical memory.She recalled events from years ago, with clarity and excitement. She would tell me stories from her younger days, her life and journey as though they happened yesterday. Those moments meant so much to me.She was very receptive and approachable, full of wisdom, full of life lessons, always sharing, and always guiding.Her true nature was always revealed in advices she gave. Her mantra throughout the course of her life is “A mother should be conscious of the seeds she sows.”Sometimes she said things I didn’t fully understand at the time. But as the years went by and life unfolded, I would remember her words and realise, she was right. She had seen life. She understood it deeply.If you called her at night to share an important information, she would simply say, “nightand day don’t go together, call me in the morning.” And that would be the end of it.I found it so amusing. But over time, I realised how much she influenced me. I catch myself saying the same things, sometimes jokingly “night and day don’t go together, let’s talk in the morning.”That’s the kind of impact she had, quiet, lasting, and deeply positive in ways I can’t fully express.When I had my children, she stepped in fully and made everything easier. She cared for me in the most thorough and loving ways. She was nurturing, attentive, and always intentional about my well-being.As a grandmother, she was simply amazing. The children adored her deeply. Her presence gave us complete peace of mind.When she wasn’t with us, we had a rhythm, a beautiful tradition. Saturdays were for grandma.No matter how busy the week had been, we always made time to speak with her. The children especially looked forward to it. They would ask eagerly,“Is it Saturday? Are we calling grandma today?”It was always such a beautiful moment, simple, yet deeply meaningful.And now, when I think about it, I find myself saying…“It’s been so many Saturdays without speaking to grandma.”That reality is difficult to grasp.But even in her absence, we hold on to the love she gave so freely, the wisdom she shared so generously, and the memories we will carry forever.Indeed, when our loved ones are gone, memory is all we have left, she will live on foreverMummy your kindness was not occasional, your compassion was natural, effortless, and abundant and I will always remember you; with love, with gratitude, and with honour. Rest in Peace Mummy.YOUR ONE AND ONLY DAUGHTER IN-LAW.

Grandma You were So kind to me, you were the best! It’s so sad to see you leave.I can never forget those times you would always come to visit. It is so sad that you are not around to visit anymore. I always loved all those sweet foods you made like your sweet egusi and the time you always brought popo garri. You would always love to take me to the salon to make my hair, you are a super grandma, I loved when You called me mememe! I love you so-so much. May your soul rest in perfect peace!I cherish all the moments with you. I love you.

You were the purest form of love I’ve ever known. You gave your all to your children, and even more to your grandchildren, without ever needing anything in return. Your love was calming, your love was reassuring, your love was a covering, your love was one of my greatest blessings.The wisest woman I know, always giving advice in the form of parables. There was no problem brought to you that you couldn’t find a solution for. A true homemaker, with your endless list of things I should and shouldn’t do when I get to my husband’s house.“You be girl ohh, you no be boy, you go be woman one day,”or“Oya get up, woman no de sleep till day break,”you would say so fondly.I only wish you had more time to see and celebrate the woman I’m becoming.You raised me, shaped me, and held my hand through every high and low the world threw at me. The greatest chef, there was no delicacy you couldn’t make. So many kitchen tips and tricks I’ve learned from you. So hospitable, no one ever came around you that you didn’t care for, even down to artisans. If kindness, selflessness, and sacrifice were in human form, it would be you.Thank you for the gift of my mother. Thank you for being her best friend, her partner in everything, and her confidant. Thank you for the gift of my Uncle Bawo and Aunty Pat, the truest form of family anyone could ever ask for.Thank you for the laughter, the kind that comes from deep within, filled with your Waffi humor and playful yabs. Thank you, Mama, for your time, for the years you sacrificed for us. Thank you for your protection and your endless prayers.Oh, Mama, I still can’t believe I now have to speak of you in the past. Like you always said, “Onoriode, no one knows tomorrow.” I’m grateful I got to tell you and show you how much you meant to me while you were still here.You weren’t just a grandmother, you were my mother, my guiding light, and my protector. I find comfort in the memories of you and the words you left in our hearts and minds.Rest well, Mama. In another lifetime, I would still choose you. They say when a great tree falls, the earth shakes, but its seeds live on, proudly one of those seeds.

Madam Charismatic Beatrice Kena Ogbetuo (Nee Okotie) you have left too soon.Why not I before you? Your departure was a shocker.Death is an inevitable factor in life of all human existence.Farewell, we shall meet again at the feet of our Lord - Amen.Beatrice, while you are at rest and sleep in "Perfect Peace", your beautiful daughters, Reri and Pat and your handsome son Bawo are thinking of their "Sweet Mother" now in the bosom of God.O 'Beulah land, sweet Beulah land As on thy highest mount it stand She was taken away across the sea Where mansions are prepared for her And view the shining glory shore: her heaven, her home for evermore