Celebration of Life

Pr. Mrs. Bertha Dzifa Adwoa

Agbotui

1940 - 2024

LIFE HISTORY OF THE LATE MRS. BERTHA DZIFA AGBOTUI

"I can do all this through him who gives me strength."

— Philippians 4:13 

Bertha Dzifa Adwoa Agbotui (née Lotsu) was born on October 7, 1940, in Keta, Ghana, to Wilson Hiavornawo Asigbee Lotsu and Edith Annie Nuafa Lotsu (née Acolatse). Due to her parents’ frequent travels, she lived with her maternal grandmother, Bertha Quist, in Adafienu, where she started her primary education. Dzifa later moved to Keta to attend the Roman Catholic Convent School, and while living there she stayed with her uncle and aunt Edmond and Petrina Quist.

When her parents transferred to Accra in 1954 she joined them to continue her elementary education at the Labadi Girls School. Upon passing the Common Entrance examination in 1955 Dzifa was admitted to the Aburi Girls’ Secondary School in 1956 and completed the Ordinary Level Certificate in June 1960.

After successfully passing the Ordinary Level examination she sat an entry examination and was admitted to the newly established School of Administration at Achimota in 1961. This college was established to promote the study of Accountancy and Administrators, with linkage to professional bodies in the United Kingdom.

During a routine medical checkup, it was revealed she had a hole in her heart.  Since this was one of the first known cases in Ghana, the medical authorities at Korle Bu Hospital sought further assistance from the UK, and with the support of her parents and the College of Administration, they joined forces to send her to Edinburgh, Scotland, for an urgent surgery. On discharge from hospital, Dzifa moved to London and later enrolled with the South West College of Commerce, graduating in 1965. She was admitted as an Associate Member of the Chartered Institute of Secretaries and Administrators (ACIS) on March 25, 1966, and as an Associate Member of the Corporation of Secretaries and Administrators (ACCS) on April 1, 1970.

After graduating Dzifa returned to Ghana and sought employment with the Ghana Supply Commission and was appointed a Procurement Officer in Jan 1967. She later transferred to the Accounts department of the Commission as an Assistant Accountant and later earned a promotion to Accountant. In late 1979 she took a leave of absence to join her husband who was posted to the United States as the Defense Attaché. During her stay in the United States, Dzifa took a job in the Accounts department at Dart Drug Company, Virginia, U.S.A from 1980 to 1982. After the end of the husband’s tour of duty in the United States, the family returned to Ghana where Dzifa went back to work with the Ghana Supply Commission as the Accounts Manager progressing through the ranks of Acting Chief Accountant and then, Chief Accountant.

In 1990 Dzifa then joined the Customs, Excise and Preventive Service (now the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority) at the Kotoka International Airport (KIA) in the position of Chief Collector Accounts until she retired in the year 2000.

Just before retirement, Dzifa was involved in a motor vehicle accident on the Tema motorway while on her way home from work. Dzifa was rushed to the Tema General Hospital. During her examination, the doctors discovered a lump in her breast, which was later confirmed to be cancerous. Dzifa sought further medical treatment in Dublin and the United States over the years. Despite her health challenges, she lived gracefully for over 24 years, believing that her Maker was her healer and comforter, in whom she had strong faith. Dzifa always believed that if she had not completed the Lord’s task on earth, she would not depart. She was a born fighter, survivor, resilient, and courageous, and her physical appearance, and her health challenges were not apparent to those who knew her. Dzifa always looked more beautiful after every new health challenge.

Dzifa was active and vibrant in her church activities, family events, and social gatherings, always participating with unwavering dedication and a radiant smile. Her personality was marked by a unique blend of calmness, kindness to a fault, frankness, love, and comfort. She left an indelible mark on everyone she encountered, touching lives with her generosity and genuine concern for others.

Dzifa’s involvement in her church was profound. She was a dedicated member of various church committees and patron to many others, and often organizing and participating in events that fostered community spirit and support. She led Bible study groups, coordinated charity drives, and was a trusted advisor and mentor to many within her church community. Her deep faith and commitment to serving others were evident in every aspect of her religious life.

Beyond her church activities, Dzifa was an enthusiastic participant in social groups and professional associations. She was nominated, elected, and consecrated Presbyter of the EPCG Lorenz Wolf Parish on the 15th of December 1997. She was a lay preacher, liturgist, bible reader, and a member of the Women’s Bible Class, where she helped organize events and support networks for women in her community. Dzifa also played an active role in local community service projects, demonstrating her passion for making a positive impact on those around her. In her professional life, Dzifa was a respected member of several professional groups.

Dzifa’s resilience and unwavering faith helped her face life’s challenges with grace, dignity and she fought with fortitude. She balanced her professional responsibilities with her personal life seamlessly, always finding time to nurture her family and engage in community service. Her spirit of service extended beyond her professional duties; she was a beacon of hope and support for many.

Mrs. Bertha Dzifa Adwoa Agbotui’s life was a testament to hard work, dedication, and commitment. Her legacy is one of inspiration and strength, encouraging future generations to strive for excellence and live with purpose. Her memory will be cherished by all who knew her, and her impact will continue to be felt for years to come. 

Dzifa, rest in perfect peace. 

Dzudzɔ le nutifafa me.