By Olaniyi Ola
The Family of the Late Sir Michael Enudi Okoli has announced the burial arrangement of their late mother, Lady Catherine Ifeyinwa Okoli (Nee Ezeyim) who died on Thursday, April 27, 2023, at the age of 79.
A statement jointly signed by Ven. (Arc.) Chuks Okoli and Emmanuel Osita Okoli confirm that the Funeral Rites for their mother will hold on Friday and Saturday, June 23 and 24, 2023 respectively, beginning with a Service of Songs at St. Augustine’s Anglican Church, Federal Housing Estate, Trans-Nkisi, Onitsha on 23rd June., followed by the Funeral Service on 24th June at the Basilica of St. Andrew’s, Odoakpu, Onitsha, Anambra State, Nigeria.
Osita Okoli, describing his late mother, stated that she was a diligent and industrious woman known in Ukpor, Nnobi, Onitsha, and beyond, for her resilience and sharp business acumen.
The real estate captain described his late mother as a capable moulder of persons and one with a lovable personality.
Osita Okoli continued: “Mama was my very first teacher in every sense. She was strict but fair, a disciplinarian who at the same time allowed children to express themselves within clearly defined moral boundaries.
“She bore her pains with equanimity. She concealed her tears but shared her smiles. She served God, as did our Late Father who served as Pastors Warden at St. Andrew’s Church, Onitsha, for 22 years. Mama sacrificed and exerted herself to the very limits of her endowment, for all her children.
“She shared a common passion with our Late Father, for availing us the best education attainable of our education, as she was worried that her children could only be secure if they are educated.
“Her beauty, poise, and carriage were renowned. She was a torchbearer, a trailblazer, who set the standards for her generation. She was as gorgeous as she was bold. She dared where her peers demurred, leaving towering and indelible legacies. Her faith in God was strong and because of her belief in the Almighty, she was dogged and able to face her trials and tribulations with fortitude. She always walked tall, showing love to all.”
Bidding farewell to his mother, Osita Okoli added: “Mama, we wish we had more time with you on this side of eternity but are consoled by the sweet memories of your beautiful soul and the wonderful times we shared. Rest in peace as you live forever in our hearts. Thank you for your invaluable lessons in life. Jee nke oma, Agbala galasia; Woman of substance, pioneer and a legend in her own right.”
