Order of Service Funeral Service For Late
Mrs. Elizabeth Oshiomaku Ogene
(Nee Odiwo) Who passed on to be with the Lord on December 29, 2016 at a tender age of 60 years Friday, January 27, 2017 Viewing at Royal Funeral Home from 3:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Saturday, January 28, 2017 Funeral Church Service at Royal Funeral Home Chapel at 11:00 a.m. Final Journey Home at Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens Officiating Ministers: Pastor (Mrs.) June Adetu Pastor Alfred Asebiomo
Program of Events Friday, January 27, 2017 @ 3:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Viewing @ Royal Funeral Home 17475 NW 27th Avenue, Miami Gardens, FL 33056 Friday, January 27, 2017 @ 9.30 p.m. – 12 midnight Night of Hymns @ St. Bartholomew Catholic Church Hall 8005 Miramar Pkwy, Miramar FL 33025 Saturday, January 28, 2017 @ 11:00 a.m. Funeral Church Service @ Royal Funeral Home Chapel 17475 NW 27th Avenue, Miami Gardens FL 33056 Saturday, January 28, 2017 @ 1:00 p.m. Final Journey Home for Interment @ Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens 2401 Davie Road, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33317 Sunday, January 30, 2017 @ 10:45 a.m. Thanksgiving Service @ Kingdom Harvesters Ministries 9147 Taft Street, Pembroke Pine, FL 33024 (305) 205-4401 2
Funeral Service Opening Prayer HYMN 1 – AMAZING GRACE 1.
Amazing grace! How sweet the sound That saved a wretch like me! I once was lost, but now am found; Was blind, but now I see.
2.
’Twas grace that taught my heart to fear, And grace my fears relieved; How precious did that grace appear The hour I first believed.
3.
Through many dangers, toils and snares, I have already come; ’Tis grace hath brought me safe thus far, And grace will lead me home.
4.
The Lord has promised good to me, His Word my hope secures;
Scripture Reading 1: Psalm 96
He will my Shield and Portion be, As long as life endures.
5.
Yea, when this flesh and heart shall fail, And mortal life shall cease, I shall possess, within the veil, A life of joy and peace.
6.
The earth shall soon dissolve like snow, The sun forbear to shine; But God, who called me here below, Will be forever mine.
7.
When we’ve been there ten thousand years, Bright shining as the sun, We’ve no less days to sing God’s praise Than when we’d first begun.
give unto the LORD glory and strength. 8. Give unto the LORD the glory due unto his name: bring an offering, and come into his courts. 9. O worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness: fear before him, all the earth. 10. Say among the heathen that the LORD reigneth: the world also shall be established that it shall not be moved: he shall judge the people righteously. 11. Let the heavens rejoice, and let the earth be glad; let the sea roar, and the fullness thereof. 12. Let the field be joyful, and all that is therein: then shall all the trees of the wood rejoice 13. Before the LORD: for he cometh, for he cometh to judge the earth: he shall judge the world with righteousness, and the people with his truth.
1. O sing unto the LORD a new song: sing unto the LORD, all the earth. 2. Sing unto the LORD, bless his name; shew forth his salvation from day to day. 3. Declare his glory among the heathen, his wonders among all people. 4. For the LORD is great, and greatly to be praised: he is to be feared above all gods. 5. For all the gods of the nations are idols: but the LORD made the heavens. 6. Honour and majesty are before him: strength and beauty are in his sanctuary. 7. Give unto the LORD, O ye kindreds of the people,
3
Funeral Service cont’d Opening Prayer Exhortation by the Minister in Charge Prayer for the family Scripture Reading 2: Ecclesiastes 3 Verses 1-8 5. A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather
stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; 6. A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away; 7. A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak; 8. A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace.
1. To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: 2. A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted; 3. A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; 4. A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance;
HYMN 2 – BECAUSE HE LIVES
And then one day I’ll cross that river I’ll fight life’s final war with pain And then as death gives way to vict’ry I’ll see the lights of glory and I’ll know he lives
God sent His Son They called Him Jesus He came to love, heal and forgive He lived and died to buy my pardon An empty grave is there to prove my Saviour lives
Because He lives I can face tomorrow Because He lives all fear is gone Because I know He holds the future And life is worth the living just because He lives
Refrain: Because He lives I can face tomorrow Because He lives all fear is gone Because I know He holds the future And life is worth the living just because He lives
4
Eulogy My name is Edward Odiwo and I am the youngest brother of the deceased, Elizabeth Ogene. I couldn’t believe it when I heard the devastating news that my sister had passed away. Sister Eliza was only 60 years old and had so much life left to live. Even though today is tragic and such a sad event, I hope that everyone can hold his or her heads high. Sister Eliza would have wanted us to celebrate her life and speak about her achievements and our fond memories with smiles on our faces. Let’s not dwell on our significant loss, but instead focus on paying tribute to Elizabeth’s remarkable life. Sister Eliza was more than my sister; she was my closest friend. We spent countless hours together as I was growing up, even after she relocated with her husband to United States of America in May 2015, we always talked on the phone. I had looked forward to seeing her in December 2016 as she proposed to be in Nigeria before she was snatched away by death. I lived with her when she was in Benin, and moved with her when she relocated to Lagos, we always disagreed and quarreled about me keeping late nights, which made me escape certain dangers. Even in our disagreements, she still showed me love as a son and baby of the family. This memory will forever be with me. She was a strict disciplinarian. My sister was a prankster and enjoyed laughing and making others laugh. She always had a smile on her face and could brighten the darkest days. Sister Eliza would always have a joke or funny story to tell whenever I saw her and I loved her positive fun-loving attitude. Sister Eliza was also a very compassionate person. She cared a lot for her friends and family and would do anything to help them. She was one of the most loving and caring person that I have ever met. Sister Eliza enjoyed cooking and loved to entertain. Even when she was in Benin and Lagos, her home was always full with family and friends. She thought me how to cook. Sister Eliza will always be remembered for her positive attitude, compassion, generosity and love for life. My sister was an example to everyone she met of how to live life. I am honored that Sister Eliza was my sister and will look back on our time together with fond memories. Sister Eliza, I will always remember you and the time we spent together. Your memory will live on in my heart forever. --Edward Odiwo (Lagos, Nigeria)
5
Biography
MRS ELIZABETH OSHIOMAKU OGENE (NEE ODIWO), was born on July 21. 1956, in Lagos, Nigeria, to Late Chief Peter Ezebiafe Odiwo and Mrs. Ajoke Odiwo, of Awuyemi town, Okpella, Etsako East in Edo State (North). She was born into a large family. She was the second child and the first daughter. She was married to Alfred Samari Ogene, of Imiekhuri, Okpella, Edo state (North), on December 16, 1978, at the Holy Cross Cathedral Church, Mission Road, Benin-city, Edo State. She attended Lagos Anglican Girls’ Grammar School, Lagos, Nigeria, and completed her education at Imaguero College, Benin-City, Edo State. Her passion was in the teaching profession, so, she went on to further her education at the Tayo Akpata University of Education (Formerly called College of Education, in Affiliation with University of Benin) Ekiadolor, Edo State. She was a dedicated teacher, who was loved by all her students and fellow teachers. She was dependable, soft spoken, and a very likeable person. She spent over 38 years in her teaching career. In her passion for education (knowledge) and teaching, she was about taking on some courses that will enable her continue her teaching passion in Dade County School Board, Miami Florida…..but was cut short by death. She was a woman of FAITH, and a dedicated member of her church in Nigeria and the United States of America.
BENEDICTION HYMN 3 – HOW GREAT THOU ART….
Refrain
O Lord my God, When I in awesome wonder, Consider all the worlds Thy Hands have made; I see the stars, I hear the rolling thunder, Thy power throughout the universe displayed.
And when I think, that God, His Son not sparing; Sent Him to die, I scarce can take it in; That on the Cross, my burden gladly bearing, He bled and died to take away my sin.
Refrain Then sings my soul, My Saviour God, to Thee, How great Thou art, How great Thou art. Then sings my soul, My Saviour God, to Thee, How great Thou art, How great Thou art!
Refrain When Christ shall come, with shout of acclamation, And take me home, what joy shall fill my heart. Then I shall bow, in humble adoration, And then proclaim: “My God, how great Thou art!”
Refrain
Refrain
When through the woods, and forest glades I wander, And hear the birds sing sweetly in the trees. When I look down, from lofty mountain grandeur And see the brook, and feel the gentle breeze. 6
Acknowledgment: Funeral Home Staff HYMN 4 – TO GOD BE THE GLORY
O perfect redemption, the purchase of blood, To every believer the promise of God; The vilest offender who truly believes, That moment from Jesus a pardon receives.
To God be the glory, great things He has done; So loved He the world that He gave us His Son, Who yielded His life an atonement for sin, And opened the life gate that all may go in.
Refrain
Refrain Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, Let the earth hear His voice! Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, Let the people rejoice! O come to the Father, through Jesus the Son, And give Him the glory, great things He has done.
Great things He has taught us, great things He has done, And great our rejoicing through Jesus the Son; But purer, and higher, and greater will be Our wonder, our transport, when Jesus we see. Refrain
At the Graveside FINAL COMMENDATION…... Immediately after the service, the pastor goes to the casket, then says: With faith in Jesus Christ, we reverently bring the body of our sister MRS. ELIZABETH OSHIOMAKU OGENE, to be buried in its human imperfection. Let us pray with confidence to GOD, who give life to all things that he will raise up this mortal body to the perfection and the company of the saints. May GOD give her a merciful judgment and forgive all her sins. May CHRIST the good shepherd lead her safely home to be at peace with GOD our father, and may she be happy forever with all the saints in the presence of the eternal king, through Christ our Lord….Amen We commend our sister to you Lord, now that she has passed from this life, may she live in your presence, in your mercy and love. Forgive whatever sins she might have committed through human weakness….we ask this through Christ our Lord……Amen I am the resurrection and the life, any man who believes in me will live even if he dies. And every living person who puts his faith in me will never suffer eternal death.
7
Let us pray for our sister MRS. ELIZABETH OSHIOMAKU OGENE, to our Lord Christ who said: I am the resurrection and the life, the man who believes will live even if he dies, and every living person who puts his faith in me will never suffer eternal death. Lord, you wept at the death of Lazarus your friend; comfort us in our sorrow. We ask this in Faith….. Amen. ALMIGHTY GOD, through the death of your son on the cross, you have overcome death for us, through his burial and resurrection from the dead you have made the grace a holy place, given us eternal life. We pray for those who died believing in Jesus and buried with him in the hope of rising again. GOD of the living and the dead, may those who faithfully believe in you on earth live with you forever in joy of heaven. We ask this through Christ…..Amen. **(The body is now lowered into the grave while the pastor says the following prayer) Since Almighty God has called our sister/mother, MRS. ELIZABETH OSHIOMAKU OGENE, from this life, we commit her body to the earth from which it was made. May God receive her into his peace, and raise up her body on the last day….Amen. **(PRAYER FOR ALL PRESENT) God, of all consolation, in your unending love and mercy for us, you turn the darkness into the dawn of life, show compassion to your people in sorrow. Be our refuge and strength to lift us from the darkness of this grief to the peace and light of your presence. God Jesus Christ, by dying for us you conquered death and by rising again, you restored life. May we then go forward to meet him and our life on earth, be reunited with our brothers and sisters where every tears will be wiped away. We ask this this through Christ our Lord and in Jesus Mighty name we pray...Amen
2. God be with you till we meet again, ’Neath His wings securely hide you, Daily manna still provide you, God be with you till we meet again.
HYMN 5 - GOD BE WITH YOU TILL WE MEET AGAIN 1. God be with you till we meet again, By His counsels’ guide, uphold you, With His sheep securely fold you, God be with you till we meet again.
3. God be with you till we meet again, When life’s perils thick confound you, Put His arms unfailing round you, God be with you till we meet again.
Refrain: Till we meet, till we meet, Till we meet at Jesus’ feet; Till we meet, till we meet, God be with you till we meet again.
4. God be with you till we meet again, Keep love’s banner floating o’er you, Smite death’s threat’ning wave before you, God be with you till we meet again.
8
I AM FREE Don’t grieve for me, for I am free I am following the path, GOD laid for me I took GOD’S Hand when I heard Him call I wish you all the sunshine of tomorrow My life has been full, and my journey on earth completed I savored much good friends, good times, loved ones touch Perhaps my time seemed too brief on earth; don’t lengthen it now with grief Lift up your hearts and REJOICE with me GOD wanted me now, and has SET ME FREE When your time comes to cross over, I will be there to take your hands. -Elizabeth Oshiomaku Ogene
LETTER TO MY DEAREST HUSBAND My husband, Alfred Samari Ogene, I know you are very sad and your eyes are full of tears. Your heart is heavy for my passing unto glory. My dear husband, cry no more! I am in a good place under the bosom of the beautiful ANGELS. I am safe from pain. My sudden departure from this earth has a purpose. My job on this earth is now completed my husband. Stay strong for our children, our families, and our friends. Goodbye and goodnight my husband. -Elizabeth Oshiomaku Ogene LETTER TO MY CHILDREN I am very proud of you, my dearest children, look how far we have come; all we had was GOD and a big dream as a family. Keep my sacred heart light on always. We will never see each other again in life, but we shall meet at the feet of Jesus. If you need me, just call on me, I will come running and I will protect and love you unconditionally. Make sure you always forgive people that offend you; and on the same token, always apologize when you offend someone. LOVE GOD, FEAR GOD, and always call on GOD for everything. God is the answer to all problems. My children, remember that I will always love and protect you forever!!!! Stay strong for each other, especially your FATHER – take good care of him!!!! -Elizabeth Oshiomaku Ogene
9
Tributes Elizabeth, It can never be the same again When the lilies are nowhere to be found The beautiful flower had disappeared at the time least expected A bid vacuum had been created in the life of a man Who on earth could replace a vacuum created by death? Can I ever hear that sweet voice of one so dear to me again? It can never be the same again. What a big blow for a journey of 38 years to come to an abrupt end just like that. How great would it be the joy to meet again on the day of resurrection? You fought a gallant fight to continue the journey, but it is the wish of the Lord for you to come home. Adieu my wife, my sweet heart, Elizabeth Oshiomaku Ogene. --Alfred S. Ogene, Husband (Miami, Florida) FAREWELL DEAR MOTHER Somewhere in my heart beneath all my grief and pain, is a smile I still wear at the sound of your Dear name. The precious word is “MOTHER”. She was my world, but now my heart is breaking because she is no longer here with me. God chose her for his angels to watch me from above. To guide me and advise me and know that I am still loved. The day she had to leave me was when her life on earth Was through. God had better plans for her, for this I surely know. When I think of her kind heart and all those loving years, she truly was my best friend, someone I could confide in. She always had a tender touch, a warm and gentle grin. I want to thank you mother for teaching me so well, and though the time has come that I must bid you farewell, I will use all you have taught me and make you proud, you will see. Thank you my dear mother for all the love you showed me. Although, you have left the earth and now you have taken flight. I know that you are here with me each morning, afternoon and night. You are gone, but not forgotten. We are apart, yet your spirit lives within me, forever in my heart. I remember vividly one time you asked me if I will miss you, I gave an answer and I am giving it again. I WILL MISS YOU TERRIBLY MOTHER, I WILL MISS YOUR SMILES. Adieu mummy, Elizabeth Oshiomaku Ogene (new Odiwo). Till we meet again I LOVE YOU. --Your son, Anthony Ogene (Lagos, Nigeria) Mommy you have always been the strength that holds me in stormy weather. l pray I can be half the mum you have been to me and my brother, putting up a brave smile regardless of the countless stormy weather. Thank you for loving me unconditionally despite the differences between us and thank you for your guidance. I will miss you mommy. --Glory Emodogo……(Dallas, Texas) 10
MISSING YOU SO MUCH MY DAUGHTER You left me broken hearted by your demise, not knowing what to do, but now I find such comfort in memories of you. The legacy you left me/us was of happiness and love, and that shines on forever from the glorious skies above. You brought JOY and BEAUTY from the moment of your birth. Now you are in heaven, you are an angel just as you were here on earth. Continue to rest in the bosom of our Lord Jesus Christ, till we meet again. I MISS you and LOVE you MY DAUGHTER, MY CHILD. --Your Mother, Mrs. Ajoke Odiwo (Lagos, Nigeria)
Eliee mee (fondly called), For the many years, you were here with us, I enjoyed you and you leave behind very good memories that will be with me for the rest of my life. Eliza, Rest In Peace. Good Night. --Your brother, Tayo Odiwo (Maryland, United States)
A Tribute to My One and Only Older Sweet Sister - Elizabeth O. Ogene You lived your life very simple and in service to God. You are a true Christian with a gentle soul, quiet but sweet and loving. I miss your daily phone calls and your encouraging words of wisdom. Your life’s journey ended and your sun set on December 29, 2016, at 5.20AM. You left suddenly without saying “Good Bye” but memories of you will always remain with me. My words are few, my thoughts are deep, but your memories are full within me. I love you but God loves you more. Your life on Earth was brief but you live forever in Heaven. Earth has lost a gentle soul And Heaven has gained an Angel. Deep in my heart your loving memories will be kept and your love I will never forget. I have so many wishes I wish I had time to say “Good bye” I wish God had given you a few more years with us. So many wishes, so much tears, broken hearts, but there is JOY in knowing that one by one when we meet in Heaven God will link the broken chain. Farewell, Adieu, Rest in Perfect Peace My one and only older sweet sister - late Mrs. Elizabeth O. Ogene (Nee Odiwo) --Philomena Kerobo (Michigan, United States)
11
Tributes A TRIBUTE TO MY DEAR SISTER ………..Until We Meet Again! I don’t think I will ever be able to accept or live quite the same way knowing you are no longer with us. It’s not fair, and I’m completely devastated. The fact that you are no longer here with us will always cause me pain, but you ‘ll forever be in my heart. Aunty Eliza, who’s going to come to my bedroom every morning to say good morning, sit by my bedside to chat with me a little before telling me to get up and get ready for work. You washed my clothes without even letting me know. You did not only treat me like your sister, you treated me as if you were my Mother. I will never forget your soothing words, by assuring me that my hard work will pay off very soon and that in a very short time, I will enjoy the fruits of my labor. At any point of me breaking down, your quick observation and words of encouragement kept me going. You watched over me as a big sister and like a MOTHER. You gave me HOPE when I was down, and the courage to move. I cried when you passed away, I still cry today, although I loved you dearly, I couldn’t make you stay. Your golden heart stopped beating, and your hands at rest. GOD proved to me that you will continue to rest under the bosom of the beautiful ANGELS. I will not hear your soft-spoken voice anymore. I know you can feel my tears, I will forever wonder why someone so precious like you had to leave us. I pray that GOD will give me and all the people you left behind the strength to get us through as we struggle with this great loss. Your Life was a Blessing, your Memory a Treasure, you are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure! You were a good Christian within yourself and the people around you, and I have no fear that you are in a better place. Rest In Peace my beloved Aunty Eliza!! --Your sister, Susan Fumi Odiwo (Florida, United States)
12
Tributes AN ODE TO A SWEET SISTER You came to the world not of your own choice, yet you sought to make it a better place for yourself. Through struggles and struggles, life’s benevolence seemed to elude you but you persevered, seeking strength from Almighty GOD. You made your share of mistakes as a fallible human being be it in raising your kids or relating to others around you. BUT, you kept trying. Trying to do the right things; for that, GOD saw your intent and he will BLESS you as you continue your journey. I go back to my childhood. I remember the sweet memories of seeing you at the gates of my high school (Edo College, Benin City) sitting by the gateman, with a small bag by your side. As I approach, my heart will skip with joy as I thought to myself: she has brought me some goodies (or provisions as we use to call it). I remember when I was little kid and was hit by a car; you were there by my side, comforting me as we went to the hospital. You were kind, and you sought to remain kind even if the world did not necessarily show kindness toward you. I remember when I got a visa to go to the United States; I can still smell and taste the Egusi soup and pounded yam you made for me after I stopped by at Auchi on my way from Kaduna to Benin; as if it was yesterday. You were sweet, and I saw the excitement on your face; an excitement that eclipsed mine. THANK YOU…AGAIN. All through your adult years, life was difficult, but you continued to plug ahead, taking solace in GOD’S will and looking forward to a better life. Better life soon beckoned you when you moved to the United States on an immigrant visa. YES, I was very EXCITED that finally the difficulties would ease. BUT…. What happened? What happened? Why did you leave us? WHY? As Julius Caesar in Shakespeare said: “Death, a necessary end, will come when it will come.” TRUE, but NOT SO SOON. You are GONE TOO SOON! May the peace of GOD be with you as you continue your journey. REST IN PEACE SWEET SISTER. REST IN PEACE. --Your brother, Donald Odiwo (Texas, United States)
13
Tributes Sister Eliza, You were a sister “too good” to be gone. You have been there for all of us selflessly. I remember my days in Auchi Polytechnic, I never lacked anything in school even with your meager salary as a teacher. What about as a youth copper, same thing. When papa died and everyone neglected us, you gave us hope. When I got married and had my daughter Faith, I remember when you came to spend some months with me taking care of her. When Faith was in school, you were there for her. When the challenges of marriage came upon me, you encouraged me with prayers to carry on, which has yielded a good result of restoration today. Sister Eliza, it was as if you saw death coming, when you insisted we hold a family meeting. This was held in August 21, 2016 everyone in attendance physically and by phone. You kept asking me to send the minutes based on what was discussed and agreed on. Your wish as agreed will be executed to keep your spirit on. I was with you in October/November 2016 hale and hearty, promised to see you in December, but NEVER waited for me. Sister I will miss you. I was happy when your green card came through and you relocated with your husband, we had so many plans on what you will be doing, and how Anthony your son will be doing in Nigeria, how you planned to come to Nigeria last December on holiday…...alas it was a mirage. God knows the best. In 1 Corinthians 15:55; O death, where is thy sting? O grave where is thy victory – Sister Eliza, my joy is that you lived a life without blemish and served God SELFLESSY. Our assurance is that you have gone to be with the Almighty God. Sister Eliza, because you are no longer here to talk with me, I will look towards Heaven, for I know I will see A star that will suddenly glow big and bright, it will be my sister smiling …. And watching over us. Adieu sister, sleep in the Lord where there is no pain, struggle, sadness etc., but ceaseless joy and eternal rest. --Your sister, Blessing Ekanem (Lagos, Nigeria)
14
Tributes TRIBUTE TO MY SISTER! Sister Eliza, You will deeply be missed. I remember how you will always call me on my birthday, Christmas day and on New Year’s Day faithfully; those phone calls will not come anymore, but I know you are in a better place: I will not despair as if I have no hope because you are just asleep until the day of resurrection from our LORD and Savior Jesus Christ. I remember you always call me “Paulington”, I remember our arguments, disagreements and agreements but most of all I remember your love and care about my life, my marriage, my wife and my success. I will miss your voice, your words of encouragement, your support but most of all, I will deeply miss your presence. Until we meet again in the bosom of our LORD and savior Jesus Christ, I will forever remember all the memories we share and keep it dear to my heart. --Your brother, Paul Odiwo (Connecticut, United States)
A Tribute to My Precious Sister, Elizabeth Ogene The news of your passing was painful, nonetheless, I realized Christian don’t die and therefore we sorrow not like those who do not have hope of the resurrection, some glorious morning you shall wake up as if you just slept yesterday. Words may fail me here to really express my gratitude to God that our paths crossed here on this side of the rapture. Your exemplary Christian life, honest, devotion to your family, the people of God, duty and your openness is unrivaled. I can remember how your home was open for all, never complained, always ready to give, never sad, that was your honesty, depth of sincerity and fear of God. What about those morning devotions, always employing, exhorting, encouraging us that there is only one way to true happiness, and that is full obedience of God’s words. One thing I do regret though was that, I was unable to bring before you my son that God has graciously given to me, to bid you farewell. Sleep on sister Elizabeth, rest from the toils and labour of this corruptible world. God be with you till we meet on that bright and cloudless morning when the dead in Christ shall rise. --Your Brother, Edward Odiwo (Lagos, Nigeria) 15
Remembering Aunty Elizabeth Ever since we were little children we’ve known Aunty Elizabeth by her voice through periodic long distant calls from Nigeria. We first met her in Nigeria in December 2013 – a memorable encounter as she was full of life, energy, passion and the Holy Spirit. Thereafter, she consistently sent us greetings through WhatsApp and encouraging messages filled with love; moments that we will cherish forever. We, Omosude and Omuwa, remember her visit to Findlay, not knowing that that was the last time she will ever visit us. I, Idode, remember her visit to my football game, braving the cold weather to watch my team and I play; this memory will last a lifetime. The pictures we took I will hold dear forever. I, Imodu, am thankful for her visit with me in Chicago, memories that will remain with me forever. I also remember her joyous spirit and unwavering positivity, which often provided solace when I didn’t realize I needed it. All of us had fun, but only for a short period. We were happy to know she was able to visit all of us in our respective locations and see the world beyond Nigeria’s borders. We wish she had many more years to experience life here with us in the US. Her journey with us was brief, but these memories that we made will last forever. Still in shock, we are at a loss for words; however, we offer this scripture, for which she embodied each verse effortlessly: “Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies. The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil… Strength and honour are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come. She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness. She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness. Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her. Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all. Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the Lord, she shall be praised.” - Proverbs 31:10, 25-30 You labored on earth and the Lord has given you rest. Though we are sad to see you go, Heaven is happy to receive you. The gates of Heaven opened and the angels are glad to lead you home where there is no sorrow, no pain, no tears. Sleep on Aunty Elizabeth, and may your gentle soul rest in peace. With love, --Your Nieces and Nephews - Omosude, Imodu, Omuwa, and Idode Kerobo (Michigan, United States)
Grandma (fondly called), You were a teacher, a mentor, a helper, a guide, a mother, an aunt and a grandmother. She was all this to me and even more. Why God decided to take her now, I don’t know, but He knows best. I love her too but God loves her best and I know we shall meet again at the very end. My heart is with you and I pray that you rest in the Lord’s peace. I pray for comfort for your children I pray that God gives all of us healing hearts and also joyful hearts because I know you have gone to be in a better place with HIM. --Your niece, Faith Ekanem, (Miami, Florida) 16
A TRIBUTE TO OUR AUNTY ELIZABETH A light from our lives has gone A voice we loved is still A place is vacant within our hearts which can never be filled. We hold you close within our hearts And there you will remain To walk with us throughout our lives until we meet again So, Rest In peace dear aunty Elizabeth, and thanks for all you have done We pray that God has given you the crown you’ve truly won. We will miss you dearly and you will forever remain in our hearts Your love will continue to shine within us….. We’ll remain your three musketeers nieces, --Christina, Ashley, & Jessica Amanambu (Miami, Florida)
Sister Eliza, I fondly call her “Ukedo Aro Yanya” I am still shocked about your death. I remember vividly all the things you wanted me to do for you when I come back to Miami for my next holiday and I have planned judiciously to help you do them. Death has destroyed all our plans. Sister Eliza was loved by all that ever had contact with her and she was very generous. We are saddened by this event that we all knew would come someday but in my heart I know you are resting in heaven today without labor and you will find final peace in the Lord. I will ever and always miss you and your smiles. Adieu my lovely Sister In-Law, Rest in Peace and we will surely meet again. Adieu sister Eliza till we meet again. --Charles Ekanem, Your brother-in-law (Lagos, Nigeria)
Tribute! It is with the deepest sense of shock and sorrow that I heard my friend, sister, aunt and mother’s sad and untimely demise. She was a wonderful human being, who is always there to give a helping and sympathetic hand to anyone who needed her help. Her death really saddened me and I feel drained. God wanted her and she is there with him in Eternal bliss. May the Lord rest her soul in everlasting peace. Please convey my condolences to daddy and children, mama and all family members. In grief --Nosa and family (NIGERIA) 17
Aunty, You were not only a Mother to my Family but also a proper Grandmother to my Children. You were very transparent and you embraced us with an open hand. You were one in a million to my children and to so many other children you had come across in your well lived life. Your belief in God was second to None. You loved the things of God to the extent of giving up your social life for His sake. Well done Aunty. You were a Christian with a difference. You did not just proclaim Jesus and his way of life but you lived a life that emulated him. Aunty, your Christian life was a unique example and encouragement to so many believers.
are celebrating today.
Your entire life was dotted with wonders and beauty. You defiled all odds in you passage through the Maze of life and in so many difficult life circumstance and situations, with perseverance, determination and vigor to the end. Because Jesus Christ your savior was with you, you were VICTORIOUS. That is the victory we
Your entire life is a success story worth celebrating. You can now say to your maker today with a broad smile on your face, like Jesus said to his Father in JOHN 17:12 “Those whom you gave me, I have kept and none of them is lost�. Aunty, the battle is over and you are now gone to rest in the bosom of the Lord. The pain is in our heart because we never wished you to part from us in this sudden manner. We know you also fought hard to remain with us but God knows best. All your good deeds and your warm presence with us cannot be easily forgotten. It will take a longtime for us to recover from your sudden departure. We have no choice. Rest in the Lord till we mean again. --ANI and FAMILY (Lagos, Nigeria)
FAREWELL MY BEAUTIFUL SISTER!!! It is with a grieving heart, that I put pen to paper to write this tribute to you my lovely and wonderful sister. I was shocked when I heard about your passing away. I am still in a state of shock and pray it will go away, but it has donned on me that, this is reality. Sister, you were a God fearing and kind hearted sister, one with resilience, always willing to help no matter how little it was, you could offer. You brought me from the village, saw me through to the university like your own son and stood by me in difficult times. Even after I left your place and got my own place, your doors were still very wide open, like they were mine. For these and many more, I say a very big thank You and I will forever be grateful to God for crossing your path. Sister, thank you for all your words of advice, encouragement and tutoring, they have made me whom I am today. I know you are in a better place, because you were a Christian mother, one who served God diligently with all her might and soul. Farewell, my wonderful sister, till we meet on that glorious morning to part no more. Rest in the bosom of our Lord. Aunty me, you are greatly missed by me. --Your Cousin, Sule Odiwo (Lagos, Nigeria) 18
Mama Tony as we all fondly call her The news of her death came to us as a rude shock. It was very unexpected. Mama Tony was a “mother” to all of us at Oyekan Road, Surulere. She was a kind hearted and strict Lady, who in her own way always points out how she feels about things and advises on what she feels is right. The “teacher” in her always makes her sound bossy, but for us who knew her well knows that she always means well. She was straight forward and honest and was never afraid to say the truth at all times. We will surely miss her. May her soul continue to find peace in the blossom of our Lord. --Tomiwa Opadele (NIGERIA)
A TRIBUTE TO A LOVELY MOTHER IN CHRIST Dear Mum, It feels like I am still dreaming. I can’t believe I am writing you a tribute. You were amazing. You were so beautiful. I am still wondering why it should end this way. I still can hear your voice as you usually ask “my daughter, how are you?” Then you would teasingly say “my namesake”. To be sweet and to always keep in touch are two wonderful things I learned from you. You would call regardless of the terrain to pray for me, and then I always looked forward to your daily scriptures and words of encouragement via WhatsApp. Thanks a million for the birthday prayer you sent. Thanks a million for always calling to pray for my family and especially my dad. I think our Heavenly Father must have seen your sweetness up there and decided to take you home. You would be greatly missed. I promise you, we would meet again. Lots of Love. --Elizabeth Addo (from the Addos) (NIGERIA) Tribute to a Jewel It is still a surprise you are gone. I can only say it was a blessing and a privilege getting to know you ma. The last few months we were in constant contact. I will definitely treasure you in my heart. Though we will miss your cheerful self a lot, we thank God no more pain and you are with your beloved Father now. Rest well in His arms till we meet to part no more. With Love and Respect. --Your daughter in Christ, Tolu Akintade (NIGERIA)
19
Tributes Good Night…. Our Dear Sister Ogene Though we take solace in knowing that if God has not finished with an individual there is nothing the devil can do to such a person. Though your passage to our eternal home came unexpected specially after migrating to the U.S., but when I started counting God’s Blessings in your life, there is so much to be Thankful for. The privilege of meeting again the part of the family that you haven’t seen in years, the reunion and great and wonderful times you had after years of toils as a school teacher here in Nigeria. Your Kindness, Openness, Help, Care, and Concern over the years and especially the last few months ensuring that Bro Toks Akintade got his lost items from the American Airline and constant sharing of spiritual uplifting quotes and helpful information. We thank God for your life and giving us a Sister like you. No doubt the Lord will watch over the children, Daddy, the Grandchildren, your Siblings, Mama and all connected by blood or marriage. Continue to rest at the feet of our Lord our Saviour Jesus Christ until we meet to part no more. --Sis Ayo Akintade (Lagos, Nigeria)
MY TRIBUTE TO MAMA TONY It’s been said that a mother’s heart is the child’s classroom. I thank God for all that you, Mrs. Elizabeth Ogene, has taught me through the years I lived with you and afterwards. You were a portrait of a godly mother, and I’m proud to be associated with you. You treated me like your own son. You taught me the importance of having a relationship with God. Your frequent encouraging phone calls I miss and will never forget. The love in your corrections when I do wrong, I will never forget. I miss the wisdom in your advice. I miss the funky way you call my name “STIVINO”. Generous, Kind, Loving, Sweet, Caring, Honest, Resilient, Selfless. You possessed these qualities for sure and even more. Accepting this reality is difficult for us but we don’t have a choice. My consolation is I know you’re in the loving arms of our Lord. We shall all miss you mummy! I shall miss you! However, we look forward to a great day of reunion in the mansions of the blessed. “Goodnight Mummy, till we’ll meet in that glorious morning and part no more. --STEPHEN UGOCHUKWU (NIGERIA) 20
Tributes MRS. EIZABERTH OGENE You taught us like a mother would teach her children. You were very motherly during your time. You would flog us sometimes when we acted wrongly to correct us. You would lead us to the Dining Hall for Lunch and you would lead us back when Lunch was over. My worst moments were when you would flog us with the long Board Ruler for our wrong acts. I miss you so much. These disciplinary aspects of your teaching career in primary school were very good because it changed many pupils in S. T. & T. Regency International School, G. R. A., Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria. My best moments, and I can guarantee other pupils best moments as well, with Mrs. Ogene, was when she would sit us down for Christian Religious Knowledge (CRK). She taught this with so much passion and I will never forget this for a long time. May the soul of Mrs. Elizabeth Ogene rest peacefully and perfectly peacefully. Amen. --Timothy Chinonye Obasi (Dublin, Ireland)
Aunty Elizabeth is a gem. A very precious jewel, a special masterpiece who brings joy to the hearts of everyone around her. Aunty, you were friendly, unassuming, down to earth and at the same time compassionate and loving. We knew you for such a brief period, but during that short time, you made great impact upon our lives like we have known you all our life. You were truly what the word of God says you are: the light of the world because you brought light everywhere you went. The salt of the earth because you add flavor and sweetness to every occasion. You are absent in the body but we believe you are always present in the spirit, rejoicing in the presence of your savior. Aunty we love you and we miss you Rest In Peace. Pastor June Adetu, On behalf of Kingdom Harvesters Church., (Miami, Florida)
21
Appreciation The families of Ogene and Odiwo appreciates all your prayers, encouragement and love at this time of celebration of the life of our Sister and Mother. We want to thank you all for your presence at the Funeral Home, at the Night of Hymns, and at the Cemetery. We also want to thank those that could not be with us in presence, but are constantly with us in prayers. The good Lord will bless you all, and we wish you a safe journey to your various destinations. Shalom
22
Memories
Elizabeth in science Laboratory in Secondary School
Elizabeth at 2 years old in 1958 in Lagos, Nigeria
Early days of Elizabeth and her husband, Alfred 23
Memories
Elizabeth and her husband in their early days after marriage Elizabeth as a young girl with so much dreams
24
Memories
Elizabeth during her graduation ceremony from the university
Elizabeth on her wedding day , December 16, 1978 25
Memories
Elizabeth and her husband Alfred on their wedding day. 26
Memories
Elizabeth, her husband Alfred, her late father and her mother on their wedding day 38 years ago
Elizabeth with parents, siblings, aunties and uncle in 1974
27
Memories
Elizabeth with parents, and siblings in 1981
Elizabeth marking her 50th Birthday
28
Memories
Elizabeth, Husband and Family
Elizabeth in her room during the cruise to Western Caribbean in November 2015 29
Memories
Elizabeth and her husband during Christina’s graduation party in Miami, Florida in December 2015
Elizabeth in different postures at home in Miami, Florida
30
Memories
Elizabeth and her husband Alfred in Miami, Florida
Elizabeth and her son Anthony in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria 31
Memories
Elizabeth in Dallas, Texas
Elizabeth, her husband Alfred and family
32
Memories
Elizabeth and her husand Alfred at the Cruise, in Couzumel, Mexico in September 2015
Elizabeth in Couzumel, Mexico in September 2015 33
Memories
Elizabeth in the Cruise Ship – Navigator of the Seas, September 2015 Elizabeth with her husband in Chicago, September 2015
34
Memories
Elizabeth on the Cruise Ship Elizabeth during her youngest brother wedding in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria in May 2015 before relocating with her husband to the U.S.A
35
Memories
Elizabeth and her husband Alfred on the Cruise Ship, Navigator of the Seas in September 2015
36
Memories
Elizabeth and her husband Alfred on the Cruise Ship Elizabeth and her husband for ready for church on a beautiful Sunday morning in Miami – Florida
37
Memories
Elizabeth in Time Square, New York City 38
Memories
Elizabeth and her husband Alfred with her junior brother during a church program in Connecticut, U.S.A
39
Design and Printed by GraciousGrafx.com | 954.515.9016
Elizabeth going to church, what she loves to do‌.. serving God selflessly. Few weeks before her death.