Tributes

“A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies. Her husband has full confidence in her and lacks nothing of value. She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life.”

– Proverbs 31:10-12 (NIV)

MY GRIEF AND MY COMFORT

Grief is love with no place to go.

It is the absence of presence.

It is a hole left behind by the pain of loss.

The only cure for my grief is to grieve!

But... it is also a reminder that,

Love once shared, never truly dies!

A REFLECTION OF OUR JOURNEY TOGETHER, BY JOSHUA.

My Dearest Dzifa,

As I pour out these words, my heart aches with the profound loss of your passing. It feels as if I am trapped in a surreal dream, and I keep pinching myself, hoping to awaken and find you by my side once more. The reality of your absence is almost too much to bear, yet amidst the sorrow, I am filled with a deep sense of gratitude for the fifty-six (56) extraordinary years we shared. You were my partner, my confidante, my love, and my steadfast friend.

We first met in Keta in 1951, while you were in school at the Roman Catholic convent. Our paths crossed again in Accra in 1962, and again in London at Kilburn High Street in 1965, and finally in 1967 when you called my office regarding an order placed with the Ghana Supply Commission. That was the beginning of this beautiful journey and the conversations that led to our courtship and eventually to marriage. Each encounter felt like a prelude to something special.

Our journey through life was amazing, though not without challenges, which only strengthened our bond. You made me who I am today, and you have made a great impact on everyone you met, always finding time to call, text, or visit. Your love for God and your commitment to serving Him through the church were evident in everything you did. Your absence leaves a void that can never be filled, but your memory is a beacon of light that will guide me through the days ahead.

We faced the world together, hand in hand, our love unwavering despite the trials we encountered. You were more than just my wife; you were a pillar of strength and grace, navigating the unique challenges of being a military wife and later, a diplomat’s wife, with unwavering dedication. Your support was my anchor in turbulent times, and your love was the guiding star that brought me home. You were my priceless treasure, and I trusted you with my whole heart.

You lived your faith every day, embodying the teachings of Christ through your actions of kindness, generosity, and your endless compassion; always willing to spend your last cedi to help others. Though you are no longer with me in body, your spirit lives on in my heart and of those you loved. Your strength and unwavering dedication are a legacy that will inspire and sustain me.

When you fell ill recently, I believed you would pull through as you always do. You faced numerous health challenges in your life, and for 24 years you battled cancer with remarkable strength and faith. You always said it wasn’t your time to go and that God had given you a mission to fulfill; but this time was different. At your bedside in the hospital, it dawned on me that your mission has been fulfilled, and it was time for you to go and be with our Lord.

God told you the time was right, and you asked for one more wish; for all our children to be by your bedside before taking your last breath. You waited for all of them to be by your side. Though it was a difficult departure, your wish was granted. Being at your bedside, I could see the monitor ticking, your breath slowly fading, my eyes flickering with fear, and my whole-body trembling until your last breath when the screen went blank...!!!!!

I still feel the shock, emptiness, and void. This still seems like a dream. I cannot fathom not being able to see you in the flesh again, to give you my last kiss, to hold your hands, argue, to laugh with you one more time. One solace I have is that I know the Lord knows best, and you are resting peacefully in His bosom. Your integrity and love will forever be with me.

Dzifa, you were a woman of virtue, a woman of faith, and above all, a woman for all seasons. You truly manifest Proverbs 31 vs 10-31. God loved you dearly and blessed you with fortitude and resilience to overcome all obstacles. I am most privileged to have had you as my wife.

We tied our marriage knot with a service at the old site of the Garrison Methodist Presbyterian Church - Burma Camp, and it is fitting that we hold the service to celebrate your well-lived Godly life in this same Church.

Rest in peace, my dear Dzifa. You will forever be in my heart, and your love will continue to guide me.

With all my love, Josh

“If we live, we live for the Lord; and if we die, we die for the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord.”

— Romans 14:8 (NIV)

Hello Mummy,

I stand here today reminiscing about all the good ideals you have instilled in us, your children. You have always led the way in our lives, showing us all love and joy and guiding us to always be on the right path. Discipline we have had to endure as part of our DNA. Togetherness we have learned to be a virtue of great importance. I still remember the birthday parties you always organized for all of us. Those Sundays when I would accompany you to Pomadze farms to buy day-old chicks for your very successful poultry farm. Our place in Burma Camp and Tema, your home, was always buzzing with activity. Always full of people from various backgrounds who came to see or live with Auntie Dzifa.

You treated all who stayed with you as your children. Your nephews and nieces and, in fact, all relatives can attest to this. Daddy traveled a lot when we were younger, you were always around, and you provided for our every need.

Secondary school came in a flash and your role in our lives was awesome. You visited us almost every weekend, sometimes on Saturdays and Sundays. At home, you always made us wake up early to do household chores. Even when we were on vacation and had to go to classes, it was a must that we did these chores before we left. You always made us understand that the world was a difficult place and we needed to do all these things by ourselves. Apart from me, my siblings are all excellent cooks thanks to you; 75% rate of success.

I still remember when we were going to school we shared our provisions with all our cousins who lived with us. Your heart was full of kindness. A lot of your relatives were able to continue school because of your benevolence. Your God was also very close to your heart, and you made sure we always went to church to praise God for the good things He kept on doing for us.

In university, your kindness and sense of duty made us comfortable. You made sure I had a fridge which was always full of food. You taught us how to rise above adversity and make the best of circumstances. Mummy was also a proven survivor. You went through a hole-in-the-heart operation in 1963. Later in your life, you survived breast cancer, colon cancer, recurring breast cancer, and in the latter stages, bone cancer. A life full of adversity but one also full of kindness and love. Your friends were lifelong. A distinguished gentleman even told me that a lot of your classmates were at the airport to see you off when you went for your first operation in 1963. They are still your friends till death.

Your last three weeks were very sorrowful for all of us. You went into a coma, came out of it, and even started writing on a sheet of paper. We all had hope that you would pull out of this. Your children all flew in and visited you with all hope that you would recover. Your husband, our father, was also with us when visiting you. On Monday, June 10th at dawn, we received a call from the hospital that your health had deteriorated. We rushed to be by your side, and you quietly passed away at around 2:30 am.

You will always have a special place in all our hearts as a family and all the lifelong friends you made along the way. They have all come to commiserate with us on your passing and are all full of sorrow. You have taught us to always be kind to make the world a better place to live in.

Adios, Mummy

"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." — Joshua 1:9

Dear Mummy,

As I write this, my heart is heavy with the weight of your absence. I find it difficult to believe that you are no longer here with us. I miss you deeply, your smile, your laughter, and your comforting presence. You were not just my mother, but a mother to all my friends. You showed such genuine care for them, always checking on them and calling them by their nicknames; they know themselves.

Growing up, especially during my late teenage and early adulthood years, I was full of adventure and curiosity, and I often strayed. You could have easily given up on me, but you never did. You always gave me another chance, showing me endless forgiveness and love. You believed in me even when I doubted myself. You always knew when I needed you the most. Through many close calls in life, you instilled in me a faith that has been my anchor.

Mummy, you always showered us with love and support. You taught us to be united, to love one another without favoritism. Even when we, as siblings, had our disagreements, you taught us how to reconcile and stay strong together.

You taught me independence, resourcefulness, bravery, and curiosity. You showed me how to shop in the market, how to cook, and how to be self-sufficient. These life lessons have made me a survivor. I shall miss cooking some of your favorite meals for you. Because of you, I will overcome any situation I find myself in; you know why I am saying this, and I know you will be smiling and saying, “It shall be well.”

When I wanted to hear you laugh or see you smile, I would call you “Dzifa,” and you would respond with a big, radiant smile or a hearty laugh. Those moments are etched in my heart forever. I still cherish the last voicemail you left me on the 12th of May: “Eli, this is Mummy, when you have a moment please give me a call,” just before you went into the hospital. Your voice is a precious memory I will share with your grandchildren, a part of you that will live on.

When you were taken to the hospital by Daddy, we all believed you would pull through as usual, but this time was different. God told you the time was right, but you asked for one more wish: you battled for 3 weeks to ensure Daddy and all your children were by your bedside before taking your last breath. Though it was a difficult departure, your wish was granted. I was the last to arrive in Ghana, and you waited to see me, opening your eyes and squeezing my hand. That will be a feeling I shall always treasure. On the 10th of June, I received the dreadful call from the hospital at 1 a.m., informing me to rally the family because it was time. My heart dropped, and I missed a heartbeat. I felt the love, even though you were in pain. You made sure we were all around you before departing to be with your Maker.

Wherever I am in this world, when I look up at the night sky and see a star, I will have the assurance that you, my angel, are looking over us. Your love, your light, will forever be our guiding star.

As 2 Timothy 4:7 says, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” You fought valiantly and lived a life of love and faith. Rest in peace, Mummy. Your legacy will continue to guide and inspire us.

With all my love,

Eli (Commander-In-Chief)

“Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope.”

— 1 Thessalonians 4:13-14

In loving memory of my remarkable mother, Dzifa.

In the deepest recesses of my heart, where memories bloom like delicate flowers, resides the cherished portrait of my beloved mother. She was not just a parent; she was my guiding star, my unwavering support, and the very embodiment of love itself.

From the day I was born until this very moment, the thought of my mother brings me a profound peace, a peace that silently assures me her angelic presence is always with me. I vividly remember a moment when I was at the tender age of fifteen, lying in a hospital bed with a fractured leg, feeling as though my dreams were slipping away. The world around me blurred, but my mother remained steadfast. Her eyes, brimming with concern, held a fierce determination, a promise to mend not only my bones but also to nurture my spirit.

Today, I stand strong with a healthy, pain-free leg because my mother, my angel, never gave up, even when doctors were uncertain. She juggled her roles with the grace of an acrobat, our caregiver, my confidante, and my staunchest supporter. She cooked meals that tasted of pure love. Even when fatigue threatened to overwhelm her, she tended to our every need with unwavering dedication. Despite my journeys far from home, her presence always surrounded me.

I have always felt profoundly blessed by the parents bestowed upon me and my siblings. Truly, we won life’s greatest lottery, a gift we shall forever hold dear.

If I could turn back time and choose anew, I would select my mother a billion times over. Mummy Bertha was more than a mother, my partner in laughter, and the beacon of unwavering love. She taught me that strength is not measured solely by physical might but is found in acts of sacrifice and the warmth of a mother’s touch.

So, here’s to you, dear Mum, wherever you reside now, the angel who shaped my universe, I would never trade you for another mother, not in a million lifetimes. Your love and sacrifices resonate within me each day. Your legacy will endure through us, your children.

As the world bids farewell today, for me and your beloved children, we know it is merely a goodnight for now, Mum. Until we reunite to continue our eternal journey, rest peacefully in the embrace of the Lord. Dad is well, and we continue to cherish the joy, hope, and certainty that an angel awaits us in heaven.

Mummy, goodbye, until we meet again. May the earth lie gently on you.

Love always, Enyonam

Then I heard a voice from heaven. “Write this,” it said. “Blessed are the dead who die as believers in the Lord from now on.” “Yes,” says the Holy Spirit.

“They will rest from their labor. What they have done will not be forgotten.”

— Revelation 14:13

My Letter to Dzifa

To me, you were Mummy, just as you fondly were to many others, but she was my Dzifa, which when mentioned, you grinned. I miss you so much.

For over 12 years, I had the opportunity to be your caregiver. While it was difficult at times, looking back today, I would do it all over again. In this time of sorrow and hurt, I am at peace because I gave you your flowers in life.

Mummy, words fail me as I write this, but the word that keeps coming to me is GRATITUDE. Gratitude is what’s getting me through each day-that I had you as a mother and a friend. I cherish the memories we shared and the impact you’ve had on who I am today. You were a fighter and a resilient woman. You fought till the very end, and as your only daughter, I know I have big shoes to fill. You always inspired me to be the best version of myself. You are my hero and I know a part of you will always live in me. 

You taught me what independence and honor mean. Your faith was unmatched, and you made sure to instill great values in us, planting us in church at a tender age, and teaching us to respect everyone who crossed our paths, young or old. You were one of the kindest people I know, a testament to being the hands and feet of Jesus. Your trust in God was undeniably assuring.

I’m flooded with memories, and my heart is full. You taught each of us to become great cooks. On days I wanted to sleep in while everyone was up helping with chores, I was the first person you’d ask for. If I wasn’t present, no matter how deep in sleep I was, when I heard “Maki, afi kae nèle?” which means, “Where are you?” then you would start counting 1, 2, 3” and I would rush down at the speed of light, knowing what would be in store for me. You always said, “I cannot have my only daughter spoiled or disgrace me by not knowing how to cook and be domestic.” As an adult, we shared recipes and different ways of making various foods, and you were always open to trying new things. You were inquisitive, had the brain of an elephant and a great sense of humor. 

Your unwavering spirit and unrelenting fight as you battled health issues left an indelible mark on all of us. You endured excruciating pain over the years, but through each day, you were determined to fight because you knew your work on earth wasn’t finished. You would always smile, asking how others were doing even through your trials. You genuinely loved people and found good in every situation.

In your final moments when we prayed and played some of your favorite hymns, I couldn’t help but to notice your feet moving, in that moment, I knew you were dancing your way into Heaven’s gates.

A few days ago, you came to me in a dream asking me to tell Daddy and the boys “everything would be ok.. you stretched out your had and whispered.. “Maki, na lè be na wo nam” meaning “take care of them for me”. Even in death, your presence is felt. I’m blessed that God chose you to be my mother.

Selfishly, I wish you could have been here forever. I miss our daily lunch time conversations. While my heart is broken, I am at peace knowing your pain is gone, and I know your gentle soul has found a resting place with our heavenly Father. Heaven has gained another angel. Your legacy of hope, faith, and resilience will live on in our hearts forever. I miss you dearly, my Dzifa, my Mummy. I will always love and cherish the memories. 

Rest well Mummy!

Your Daughter, Makafui

“I am the resurrection and the life the one who believes in me will, even though they die.” — John 11:25-26 

Cherishing Grandma Dzifa: A Legacy of Love, Resilience, and Faith

Dear Grandma, 

I hope you are resting well in paradise. Recently, I spoke to Auntie Adelaide, and we couldn’t help but laugh, imagining you in heaven, already showing everyone how to make the best “Fetridetsi”. If anyone knew you, they knew that your culinary prowess was just one of the many things that made you so special. Your cooking wasn’t just about food; it was about the love and warmth you infused into every meal, creating moments that brought us together. 

If I am being honest, for as long as I can remember, you have always had some sort of illness. However, I’m not saying this to seem pessimistic but rather to honour how you always bounced back. Hence, when you were first admitted into the hospital, I did not think much of it because I had thought it was just one of those other illnesses that you’d survive. 

However, as the days passed and reality began to sink in, I started to feel an indescribable sense of helplessness, watching you from afar and seeing you suffer. I remember laying down in bed, with the weight of news of your condition worsening, pressing down on me like a smothering, suffocating weight and I couldn’t help but imagine the worst. Yet, amid the fear, anxiety, and sadness, a part of me remained inexplicably hopeful, and now I understand that sense of assurance. It reflected how you were being put to rest because you understood that your rewards were not here but in heaven; you had finally accomplished your mission. 

Before I go any further, I would like to clarify that I am writing this tribute not to dwell on the grief of losing you but to celebrate and honour the extraordinary, caring, loving, and generous person you were. Your kindness and unwavering strength touched countless lives, and this gathering is a testament to that. 

Where do I even begin? Perhaps with the time you took me to the salon to perm my hair because you insisted it was too hard to manage (which, in all honesty, it was). You would think that as fair-skinned as I am, I would have inherited some of the Hungarian hair genes, but Kudos to my dad for winning that battle. Or maybe I should start with the times you would dress me up for church, programs, and other events, making sure we looked just but never late. I adored your jewellery collection and all the goodies you amassed over the years. I cherish those moments when we all sat together for breakfast, especially waakye mornings, sharing stories and laughter. And how can I forget the times you taught me Ewe and how to say the Lord’s prayer when I was younger? That’s a story for another day. I can still vividly hear Elikem and I yelling, “Grandma, Grandpa, we’re going to school. Have a good day!” as we dashed off to school each morning or how we’d sneak past you and Grandpa when we were late.

In high school, you often gave me unsolicited but much-needed advice. At the time, I didn’t always appreciate it, but in retrospect, you were always right, and your intuition was always scarily spot-on.  When I began college, you were a constant source of support. You would check on me every weekend, ensuring I was studying, attending church, and managing my eczema with the changing weather. Your calls and messages were more than reminders; they were expressions of your care and love that helped me through my first year, and it hurts me not to have that anymore. 

Your smile, style, intuition, and sassiness were simply a few of the countless things I admired about you.  I see why you were so adamant about getting things done, making sure I get home on time, being respectful to others, and being punctual. These little things shaped a major part of who I am today. In fact, my friends often tease me, saying I act like “a grandma” and I have no problem with talking to adults, which is something I preferred for the longest time…

As the saying goes, it takes a village to raise a child, and while I consider that a reflection of my life, I would also like to say that you were my village. You were not just my grandmother but also my mentor, guide, and mother-figure as well. Your guidance has been a constant source of strength and wisdom in my life. You trained me, took care of me, loved me, and to say the least, I am eternally grateful. 

I could go on and on, but I simply do not want to drag this on for too long. Grandma, as I wrap up my letter, if there’s one profound lesson I’ve learned from you, it’s to persevere in the face of adversity. Not because life is all about facing challenges but because we have a great God who guides us through everything. Your faith, determination, and unwavering love for God will forever continue to inspire me. I am genuinely grateful to have had you throughout my 19 years. On behalf of all the grandkids, we love you and, from the depths of our hearts, thank you.

Grandma Dzifa, I pray for nothing but peace and happiness in whatever is in store for you in heaven. To everyone else reading this letter, I urge you to cherish and celebrate those you love more while they are still with you. Show your appreciation now, rather than waiting for the silence of the departed to remind you of what you’ve lost. This lesson is one I’ve learned in a way I could never ignore. As Chimamanda Ngozi once said,” Ignorance acknowledged is an opportunity.” So, let us embrace what could have been and transform it into what will be. Let us not wait for loss to teach us the value of our loved ones.

With all my love, 

Emefa Agbotui

“He heal the brokenhearted and binds up their wound.”

— Psalm 147:3

My Dearest Grandma Dzifa, my namesake.

Grandma of many blessings. 

Right from the moment I set eyes on you, I felt the bond and saw the sparkle in your eyes!

You used to rock me to sleep when I just couldn’t settle. You brightened my day with your smile and care.

Anytime I was with you, my heart was filled with immense joy and gladness. Your presence always radiated rays of love. Your kindness and compassion were truly unique. You were selfless in thoughts and in deeds.

As I got older, we used to chat often on the phone! The guidance, the words of encouragement, and the constant advice to study hard and aim for the best! Grandma I am grateful for teaching me some of life’s valuable lessons. I miss you so much Grandma, words cannot describe my sorrow.

A loss that will painfully linger for the rest of my life. Death has laid its icy hands on you! However, I fear not, I believe you are at rest with the Lord. Yes, you are with God, but you will live in my heart forever! 

May you journey well, Grandma!

Lots of Love, your Granddaughter Dzifa

“But from everlasting to everlasting the Lord’s love is with those who fear him, and his righteousness with their children’s children.”

— Psalm 103:17 (NIV)

I’ll always remember Grandma as loving, kind, and gentle. Every time she spoke with me, I couldn’t help but smile. She gave me the best Grandma hugs and amazing chocolates! Her memory will always be a blessing to me. I will miss her.

Rest In Peace Grandma  

"God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way... ”

— Psalm 46

Grandma was fun, curious about everything, and always asked plenty of questions. As she grew older she would call me to her room to give me things; clothes, shoes, accessories, and more. She was very kind with the things she had, and I got my share from her. I've spent the most time with her amongst her grandchildren and I thank God for her life and how God has been good to her.

I know she is in the right place. Grandma rest in perfect peace.

“And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose

— Romans 8:28

Dear Grandma,

I miss you so much. You were the best grandma ever. I remember all the fun times we had on our WhatsApp and FaceTime calls. You always made me laugh and gave me the best advice. You always told me to do well at school and to be kind to everyone.

Even though we couldn’t be together all the time, you were always there for me. I loved hearing your stories and seeing your big, bright smile. All the memories will make me smile. You always made me feel so special and loved.

Thank you for teaching me so many important things, like being brave and always trying my best. I will never forget the love and care you showed me. You are my guardian angel now, watching over me from heaven.

I love you so much, Grandma. Rest in peace.

Love, Edem 

“Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”

— 1 Thessalonians 5: 18 (NIV)

It is never easy to say goodbye, but it is even more painful when it is the last goodbye. However, we take solace in the fact that nothing happens without it being the will of God and the timing is His only and we cannot question what He has willed.

Instead, we will cherish the memories we shared together all these years, the jokes and laughter, even the sad moments we have shared when we have leaned on each other’s shoulders for comfort. 

For a long time, you have been the de facto head of our nuclear family. In the last years of our parents’ lives, you assumed the mantle of caring for them in particular, and the family at large, even though you were the fourth of the six siblings. When in one year,1994, our brother Kwao, and both our parents, all went to be with the Lord, you assumed the role of the head of our family, a job you performed with excellence and competence. 

Your benevolence cannot be forgotten. You were always ready to help the less fortunate in diverse ways. Education was important to you and this fact is manifested by the many people whose schooling you financed in one way or the other until your last breath. This, among other things, will remain an important legacy of yours. 

In these last few years, you have faced many health challenges, but you carried on with your life not giving in to your emotions. Most times it wasn’t obvious what you were going through because you refused to burden any of us with your pain and you just soldiered on. What a brave woman and sister you were. 

We want to thank you from the bottom of our hearts for the care and protection you provided to us. We will miss all those phone calls to check on our welfare, all the laughter we shared.

“There is a time for everything and a season for every activity under the heavens.

A time to be born and a time to die, A time to plant and a time to uproot”

Ecclesiastes 3, 1-2 NIV

Sister Dzifa, the clarion call has sounded, and the message has come in loud and clear. We love you but Jesus loves you more, goodbye and fare thee well, until we meet again.

Sister Dzifa, xede nyuie, yi na dzudzor le nutifafa me vasede miaga do go! 

From your sister Cymbie and your “Baby Brother” Mliwomor. 

“For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain.”

— Philippians 1:21

Tribute to my mother in law 

Dzifa means ‘peaceful heart.’ This is a woman whose life story was nothing but a miracle, and will be a testimony for many years to come.

Graceful and cute best described this wonderful woman. Resilient and strong describes her even better. Calmness and a cool demeanour were her attributes.

Warmth and good hospitality were her hallmark, and if you were a recipient of her big pans of okro soup, then we knew that person was very special. We would ask, ‘Who was Mummy cooking for now?’

I first saw my mother in law at the Shell filling station at Airport Accra, and my first thought was who is that elderly woman driving a black Golf 3. That was a young person’s car, I thought. GR 3331B was the number. I remember....

But I met her properly at a time when she was recovering from her 1st bout of cancer. She was warm, and I admired her strength back then. She recovered, as her God would turn things around for her good. You see, you can’t mention Dzifa without talking about a manifestation of God’s grace and mercy. She was a beacon of hope to many who had bouts of cancer and were recovering and needed someone who ‘had been there and done that’ to engage. 

Dzifa was good to people, and people were good to her. She was the doting grandmother when her grandchildren were born, and she took great pleasure in bathing her ‘Yevu’ babies. But she was ‘warned’ in a nice way not to touch their heads or mould them with hot water. She tried teaching them the Ewe language too, but her illness took her away from Ghana quite a bit, and there are somethings only Grandma’s can do.

For me, what I learnt from Auntie Bertha was resilience, grit, quiet perseverance, the desire to carry on, to be patient with people, to keep pushing, never to give up; to love God with all your being, to give and give again, to help and not complain. My mother always used to say “I don’t know what material your mother-in-law is made of”, as a response to how she overcame her health challenges with such strength. In reality, we all knew where her help came from; The Lord. 

This woman was one of a kind! She will always be in our hearts. She was a good woman, full of love which she showed in many ways.

Go in peace Auntie Dzifa, to love and serve the Lord. Rest in peace Mummy. 

God grant you the rest we all know you so deserve. 

Love always, 

Gizi

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”

— Psalm 34:18

Tribute to Madam Dzifa Agbotui

Madam Dzifa Agbotui, affectionately known as Mummy, was the revered matriarch of our family. She embodied love, strength, and resilience throughout her life. Her unwavering spirit and profound impact on our lives will forever be cherished and remembered.

Mummy’s journey was marked by immense courage as she battled various illnesses and diseases over many years. Despite the numerous challenges she faced, she remained a beacon of hope and strength, demonstrating an indomitable will to continue fighting. Her resilience was an inspiration to all who knew her, reminding us that even in the face of adversity, one can find the strength to persevere.

As a mother, she was unparalleled. Known as the mother of all mothers, Mummy’s love knew no bounds. She was giving, always putting the needs of her family and others before her own. Her home was a sanctuary where everyone felt welcome and cared for. Her nurturing spirit and unconditional love created a foundation of support that will continue to uphold our family for generations to come.

Mummy was not only a pillar of strength but also a source of joy and laughter. Her strong sense of humor brought light into our lives, even during the darkest times. Her infectious laughter and witty remarks had a way of lifting spirits and bringing people together.

She taught us the importance of finding joy in every moment and the power of a good laugh. Her legacy is one of unwavering strength, boundless love, and unyielding resilience. Mummy will always be remembered for her remarkable ability to endure and thrive, her loving and giving nature, and her incredible sense of humor. As we celebrate her life, we find solace in knowing that her spirit lives on in each of us, guiding us with the same strength and love that she so generously shared.

The earth has lost a remarkable woman, but the heavens are rejoicing as they welcome an angel of extraordinary grace and strength. To the Agbotui family, we offer our deepest condolences, drawing comfort from God’s word in Psalm 34:18.

Let us come together to honor Mummy’s legacy of peace, love, kindness, and resilience. Her enduring spirit will continue to inspire us as we carry forward her light, bringing hope and illumination to the darkest corners of humanity.

MIGHTY QUEEN, REST IN PEACE!

“If we live, we live for the Lord, and if we die, we die for the Lord. So then whether we live or die, we are the Lord’s!”

– Romans 14:8

Bertha Dzifa Adwoa Agbotui was nominated, elected, trained and consecrated on 16th December, 1991 as a Presbyter by the then E.P. Church, Community One (1), Tema, now the Lorenz Wolf Parish.

She was among a group of twenty-three (23) Presbyters who were honored and retired on 10th March 2024. She was physically present to receive her citation and other parcels

Presbyter Dzifa as we popularly called her exhibited the best of her ability as a Presbyter to the glory of God. Her humble nature will always be fresh in our minds. Dzifa’s vibrant days were full of many social interventions to the glory of God.  Her demise has created a vacuum yet to be filled.

Her generosity coupled with her regular counsel given to the youth in the Church was unique. She kept her promises fulfilled to the admiration of all. 

Presbyter Bertha Adwoa Dzifa Agbotui spoke graciously to matters, comforting and supporting the vulnerable and for the unemployed she provided job opportunities where necessary.

Even though she fell sick for a long period of time, she continued fulfilling her financial obligations to the church, particularly in giving generously towards church development projects.

We were all shaken to the marrow when we were told of her departure from earth.

The fact that she is no longer here, will always cause pain but she will forever be remembered until we meet again.

Dzifa rest in peace!

Presbyter Bertha Dzifa Adwoa Agbotui na dzidzor le nutifafa me!

Mawu nanor kpliwo miaga kpe. Amen

I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: And not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearance. 

– 2 Timothy 4:7-8

Dzifa, like your name, you have exhibited coolness in your heart since I knew you. We met at the Hostel at Achimota which housed the female students of the College of Administration, now metamorphosed to University of Ghana Business School, in January 1962. You were already a student there.

Somehow, we clinged to each other though we were pursuing different Courses – the Old Course and the New.

Our friendship grew stronger and stronger on campus those days, some of the male students would tease us that when we were walking together, it seemed we wrote ten(10), you the slim and beautiful, wrote one (1) and I, the round and short, wrote the zero(0) which made the figure 10. Yes, we were very, very, very close friends and my first visit with you to your parents, your mum told us that we were family members and that she was a cousin to my father.

We have lived as such since until that fateful day when you decided to answer your Maker’s Call.

Yes, we shall all be called one by one to go and give account of our sojourn on this planet earth. Because this earthly body is only useful here on earth. So, my sister Dzifa, you shed the earthly garment and have taken on your spiritual one to meet your Maker, our Father in Heaven.

Already, I know and believe that you are dwelling in one of the many mansions in our beloved Saviour Jesus Father’s (Our Father’s) House, so that where you are, we may be there also. Yes, Dzifa, you have a formidable heart and you have exhibited that throughout wherever you have been on earth, Sweet memories, some of us will hold until we join you in the next realm.

Dzifa, enjoy your new location because, Like, Saint Paul,

“You” have fought a good fight;

You have finished your Course;

You have kept the Faith”.

My sister Dzifa, Rest In Peace and Rise in Glory.