The community came together to bid farewell to a remarkable individual, Late Mrs. Esther Ajoke Odeyemi JP, wife of Chief Joseph Itiade Odeyemi. The funeral service, held at First Baptist Church Okaka, was a testament to her enduring legacy.
Mrs. Odeyemi’s life was marked by kindness, generosity, and devotion to her faith. The two-day funeral service for Mrs. Esther Ajoke Odeyemi was a poignant celebration of her life. The event began with a wake-keep at First Baptist Church Okaka on Thursday, July 31 and final burial rites took place on Friday, August 1st.
The event,was a grand affair which attracted dignitaries from across the country and outside the shores of Nigeria was a testament to Mrs. Esther Odeyemi’s uncommon character and service to humanity while alive.
The funeral service featured heartfelt tributes, inspiring messages, and celebrations of her life. Reverend Prof. Emiola Nihinlola’s sermon emphasized the importance of living a purpose-driven life, while Engr. Tunde Odeyemi’s emotional tribute to his mother showcased her unwavering dedication to her family.
Numerous dignitaries, including Mrs. Bose Odewumi, Mrs. Durojaye Adenike, Mrs. Titilayo Bolanle Olakanla, Reverend Jeremiah Adeosun, Reverend Dr. Femi Oyedokun, and Reverend Dr. Akintayo Suulola, paid tribute to the late Mrs. Esther Ajoke Odeyemi, praising her kind-heartedness, benevolence, devotion to Christianity, generosity, and respect for cultural traditions. They celebrated her life, describing her as a devoted Christian, a cheerful giver, and a wife who honored her cultural heritage.
Reverend Prof. Emiola Nihinlola, ministering at the program, drew inspiration from Chronicles chapter 4, highlighting that Late Mrs. Esther Ajoke Odeyemi lived a life of fulfillment that serves as a model for others to follow.
Reverend Nihinlola discussed the essence, meaning, purpose, and ways of living an impactful life, emphasizing that human beings were created and blessed by God for a specific purpose. He further stressed that being blessed is not just a state of being, but also a call to be a blessing to others, highlighting the importance of living a life of purpose and service to others.
The man of God reinforced his message with Genesis chapter 1 verse 11, referencing God’s promise to Abraham of land, greatness, blessings, and resources. He urged the congregation to seek a deeper relationship with God, emphasizing the importance of finding, knowing, loving, and serving Him, as well as being a responsible and caring member of society. Meanwhile, Engr. Tunde Odeyemi, son of the late Mrs. Odeyemi, paid tribute to his mother, describing her as a prayer warrior, a reliable and trustworthy mother, and a confidant whose passing would leave a lasting impact on their family.
Members of Imole Jesu Emmanuel Baptist Church, Akeetan Oyo, and Patriotic Club Okaka paid tribute to Mama Odeyemi, commending her exemplary character as a member and matron of their associations. They encouraged her children to follow in her footsteps, emulating her dedication to the church and community, and to continue her legacy of service and commitment.
The outpouring of support from community leaders, including the Olokaka of Okaka, His Royal Majesty Oba Abdul Azeez Olatunji Ayoola Ogelende the fourth, and other prominent figures, demonstrated the impact of Mrs. Odeyemi’s life on those around her.
The program was attended by several dignitaries, including representatives of Olokaka of Okaka, led by Oba Abdul Azeez Olatunji Ayoola Ogelende IV, Okaka palace chiefs, Islamic religious leaders led by the Chief Imam of Okaka,Prince Yinka Afonja , Prof. Layi Eegunjobi, Iyaloja General of Oyo State Chief Mrs. Folashade Abeo Oosa, Hon. Kola Olabiyi, and Hon. Saheed Yusuf Alaran.
Musical icon ,Ebenezer Obe treated guests to captivating live performances.