Odoom Tsibu
by Maya Angelou
A great soul serves everyone all the time. A great soul never dies. It brings us together again and again.
By Ellen Brenneman
Don't think of me as gone away My journey's just begun Life holds so many facets This earth is but one Just think of me as resting From the sorrows and the tears In a place of warmth and comfort Where there are no days and years Think of how I must be wishing That you could know today How nothing but your sadness Can really go away And think of me as living In the hearts of those I touched For nothing loved is ever lost And I know I was loved so much
My Journey Just Begun
Rev.
Fr. Francis Fynn
Rev.
Rev.
Fr. Isaac Essel
OFFICIATING CLERGY
ORDER OF SERVICE
St. John the Baptist Choir Euphoric Chorale Pre-Burial 7:30am Laying in State File Past & Tributes Hymns CH 403 (Guide me O, Thou Great Redeemer) CH 259 (O Lord My God when I in awesome wonder) CH 364 (What a Friend We have in Jesus) Now the Labourers task is over Now the battle day is past... CH 416 (Father in your gracious keeping, leave we now your Whenservant...)wewalk in the Lord, in the Light of his word.. Trust and Obey Casket Closing Burial Service 9:00am Procession CH 311(Give me the wings of faith to rise within the veil and see...) Introductory Rites Kyrie Mass of Sacred Heart Opening Prayer First ResponsorialReading Psalm 131 CH 34 (Lord you know, my heart....) My soul is longing for your peace, near to you my God.... Gospel Acclamation Alleluyia Gospel ELIZABETH AMA OD00M-TSIBU’S FUNERAL 0605
CHOIRS IN ATTENDANCE
Fr. David Quaynin
CH 396 (Praise to the Holiest in the Heights .....most sure in all his ways)
Yesu ka wo ho Her Life Story Tribute by Mr. M. K. Odoom-Tsibu Thank You & Announcements
Mystery of Faith
The Lord’s Prayer Sign of Peace
Post Communion Hymn
The Lord’s Prayer of
Laying
Interment
ClosingBenedictionWreathsHymn
Doxology Amen
ELIZABETH AMA OD00M-TSIBU’S FUNERAL 07 ORDER
CH 271(My God, how wonderful you are your majesty how bright, (stanza 3) how beautiful the sight of you must be)
CH 106 (The Lord's my Shepherd, I'll not want he makes me down to lie)
Agnus Dei
PrayersHomily of the Faithful Offertory Medley of Songs
Mass of Sacred Heart Holy Communion
IntercessoryCommittal Prayer
Blessing
SERVICE
Final RecessionCommendation
Opening
CH190 (Abide with me fast falls the even tide) OF
Presentation of Offerings
EucharistSanctus Prayer
CH 212 (Yes Heaven is the Prize, yes Heaven is the Prize) by Emefa Korley (Private Burial) Hymn CH351 of Grave
ELIZABETH AMA OD00M-TSIBU’S FUNERAL 08
Good morning to Everyone here seated today,
I greet you well, I trust your journey was blessed and I thank you so much for coming to support my beloved husband, children, their spouses, grandchildren and family at my funeral service today. You are surprised I am speaking? Yes, I decided to tell you my story myself since no one can tell my story better than myself, so sit well and let me tell you about my wonderful life of 73 good years.
My Life Story
Before I begin, let me side track for a small moment and tell you of one of the greatest joys of my latter life, and that was to sit back and listen to my husband and children speaking serious "Brofo” debating politics, education, finance and life in general. I would listen, enjoy and follow them to chip in here and there and they will collapse in laughter at me; so today I will retaliate with all the talking I can have, and surprise even them!
when I wasn’t at my best. Naana my last born, Kwame, my only son, Maaso you were more than my little sister, Nana Nyarkoa my fearless daughter, and Abena my “first born” daughter, thank you! I will pray for you all for all eternity and will tell everyone later how you made me feel those last few months.
I was not very well but I was truly my happiest, you cannot believe, seeing how you were all over me, pampering and making sure I had the best of care. I am now with my beloved mother Akosua Birago and her sweetheart my father Kwabena Ackah, both of Poano, in the Ashanti Bekwai area.
Back in 1949 when I was born, things were not so easy but together with my siblings, we saw them do all they could to give us what we needed. My upbringing was stable and grounded and modest. School was cool! I mean it, don't laugh! I enjoyed the teaching at Kukuorsu Roman Catholic School in Breman Esikuma, where I got my form 4 School Leaving certificate and immediately started work at the Catholic Hospital there, where I got exposed to healthcare and my dream of nursing was nurtured.
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From 1973 I gave birth to my daughter Mabel, but my marriage had already been blessed with Bea our daughter from my husband's brother and she quickly became a big sister to Nana Nyarkoa. They loved each other and helped me round the house until Percy came along, my feisty baby girl, the son that didn’t happen and so we named her Percy, because that’s the name we had chosen for our “son”. Then came my first and only son, Kwame. Oh! I felt complete, fulfilled and proud to have given Daddy these beautiful children. So, when Naana came, initially I thought I was okay, I cannot lie, any woman here with more than 3 children will not lie, but the moment I held her in my arms I knew there was a void that had been filled and now, I was a wife, mother of 5, nurse and big big disciplinarian! I thought to myself, I don’t want God asking me why my children had not lived in His shadow so I decided to discipline them myself before God asked me any questions. I wanted things to be done in decency and in order, I wanted my husband to have peace of mind so I took it upon myself to have everything done before he would get home and my back hand
But you can imagine the early sixties with the way Ghana was at the time, I wondered how I could realise my dream of being a nurse? I applied to be a Ward Assistant for which I was interviewed and got accepted and that was the beginning of my nursing career. I moved to the University College Hospital in Cape Coast as a Trainee Ward Attendant and after a successful training, she was promoted to be a Ward Assistant in 1973. Remember, my objective was to become a nurse so I made sure I worked hard enough to be recognized and that’s what got me sponsored by the University to undergo Nursing training at the Nurses and Midwives Training College at the Efia Nkwanta Hospital in Sekondi in 1976. I went through the ranks to the position of Principal Enrolled Nurse in 2004, until I retired from the University Hospital in 2009.
So that was my nursing career but could it ever be complete without the romance of meeting my darling sweet husband? He didn't see me ohhhhh, it was his mother that spotted me for his sake and kept bringing him over so he could spy me but look at how it went, Kwame. Well, I also saw him, and wow I was, "y3 ka nu senn? BLOWN AWAY"! This man, sitting, looking sad watching my coffin, couldn’t take his eyes off me either and so in a short time his family came to see mine and we got married! That day was like magic for me. My big cousin helped me get dressed, and oh my goodness, I felt like a Princess for a day and I must tell you that day has never ended until I had to say goodbye.
My husband was my life! Every day was special for me, even when there was sadness, I still felt good about my life and this handsome man I had married. Oh and let me also tell you that after so many years of being married to this fine gentleman, we renewed our vows on our 40th anniversary in a very simple but warm and intimate celebration with family and friends.
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Whenall.
a good life? Well, I certainly wish to say so. Whenever I go through tough times, my husband will do well to advise me. Whenever he too had a rough day, I will be worried I will wish to find the best solution for his challenges, spending my time in prayer so I will be a wife of wisdom and not sorrow and a mother of motivation and not misery. As a couple, my husband and I travelled together every now and then to the UK to go see my husband's relative, Kumi Mensah and his wife as well as our children. We would spend days together reminiscing, joking, discussing, cooking, eating and watching TV with me shivering in my big jacket yet still trying to smile meanwhile I was just cold!
I must admit I didn't mind anything in between Kotonmire and Kentucky, I was not fussy at all! All this new technology of TV, music, school programs and sports events was quite different from what I knew, but I wasn't going to let it get the better of me so I got right in there with my children's lives. I was determined to understand what they were doing even if I didn't quite get it
they came to me with problems, all I knew was for them to be the best they could be, and that was always the solution to the problem. So that is what I would say, "Just go out there and try your best" "Don't listen to anyone
(haha), my sharp mouth, my loud voice and the fire in my eyes was all I needed to get that job done!
For most of my life, especially after my retirement in 2009, supporting my husband, family and children was what took up my days. Going back home, both to Poano and Abodom for family funerals and mostly hosting friends of my husband was a great time. Hmmm the details of those gatherings are a story for another day!
putting you down" "Why don't you try all other ways, it will work" "Don't let me down you can do it". All these statements were borne out of what I knew I had done. From where I was coming from, a humble background and now a nurse mother and wife of my lovely husband I knew miracles could Didhappen!wehave
Bringing children up in the late 80s and early 90s was no mean feat. I loved to cook and could be in the kitchen all day. I marveled later in life when I saw all these short cuts and fancy food that people ate. Did I enjoy my kentucky fried chicken (KFC)?
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Tell her we love her and miss her, and when she turns to smile, place a kiss upon her cheek and hold her for a while.
Because remembering her is easy, we do it every day, but there’s an ache within our hearts that will never go away.
If roses grow in heaven, Lord please pick a bunch for us, Place them in my Mother’s arms and tell her they’re from us.
Dolores M. Garcia
If Roses Grow in Heaven
late last year, I was so worried about disturbing them.
So, what really happened to me? With all these good things I have talked about, why did I have to make my family so sad and leave them? I have seen them cry and pray these last few weeks before I left and wondering why God did not answer their prayers. My dear children, God’s ways are not ours and He does according to His will, not according to man’s will so be comforted. Listen to your father, my husband, it is God’s will. You looked after me very well and prayed for me that I ended up begging you to slow down, you did your very best and I’m very Whengrateful!Igotsick
AND TODAY I wish to say to my fellow women, THANK YOU, KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK AND KEEP THE FAITH!
But my story of life, love, laughter and joy would not be complete without talking about my grandchildren, all 5 of them; Emefa, Kweku, Jason, Dzidzor and Trent! Each of you is special, full of character, full of love and truly made me totally happy whenever you came around. I simply loved to have them around me and to see the word of God come true for me, that "I WILL SEE MY CHILDREN'S CHILDREN”. For my unborn grandchildren, though I may not see you on earth, smile for me because you’ll know I saw you IN HEAVEN before you were born.
I know I shouldn't boast too much about my children but I could not be a prouder mother when I see what they’ve become. My husband and I used to discuss this for hours on end, each time we sat together in our home or any of their homes. Even after all of our strict, strong upbringing, these children returned that love with honour and that discipline with reward of several birthday celebrations, family dinners and parties, and so many gifts of thanks for all we did for them. Why will I not sing and shout Halleluiah to my Maker for how kind He has been to
Myme?church
So let me not keep you here too long, I know you want to go and lay me to rest. Please make sure you dance a bit for me.... dancing is okay because I’ll also be rejoicing today as I watch you from the heavens.
I will sing and sing I didn't care if my voice was not like Diana Hamilton, I will belt out the song with all my heart, humming away where I didn’t know the words, so join me please in GIVING PRAISE TO MY GOD AND MAKER FOR MY LIFE, (Sing with me Diana Hamilton’s song Adom Adom W’adom) it is the best thing we can do.
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life? Oh my God, I can assure you I remained very old fashioned until this July when I have finally seen my Jesus face to face. I would still feel bad if I didn't say my daily prayers so I also decided that every few sentences had to incorporate the Almighty so that he will continue to bless me, my family and loved ones. I would go to my early morning services diligently and participate in programs of my Christian Mothers Group in church.
As I said in the beginning I will say now, THANK YOU, THANK YOU to everyone that is here for me today. Thank you for being a part of my life, for making me happy and for supporting my family in these very difficult times. I have gone now and I have met my Maker, what about you? Are you sure of your future if you are to leave this earth today? I use this opportunity to invite you to receive the call of God and do well to heed.
God be praised for ever as I hand over the baton to you all, to live a life of honour and Amen!goodwill!
My soul is at rest, my heart lives on Light a candle for me, to see and hold on to my memory but save your tears for I'm still here by your side through the years
Check on my husband for me and say a prayer for my children and grandchildren. I am going now, but I am never far away.
So don’t cry for me I'm not gone
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25th July 2022
How did I feel that day? Did I know when I woke up that I will leave you that day? I don't think so, all I know is that I felt a bit poorly and that in all things, GOD KNOWS BEST! He is in control and all will be well.
They got me medical equipment, medication, house care, nursing care, food and all types of gadgets to make me feel comfortable. I tried my best to get well, forced and insisted on trying to get up and about but oh, this body can disobey orders so much! I know they were sad to see me unwell but nothing broke my heart more than to watch my husband trying to help me. You won’t believe it, he bathed, fed me, ensured my food and medication were in order! Though it was sweet to see him fuss over me, that is something I was not too excited about so I remember committing all of this to prayer and I could only hear one song ...."THROUGH ALL THE CHANGING SCENES OF LIFE, IN TROUBLE AND IN JOY, THE PRAISES OF MY GOD AND KING MY HEART AND SOUL EMPLOY”
Unknown
To Those Whom I Love and Those Who Love Me
When I am gone, release me, let me go. I have so many things to see and do, You mustn’t tie yourself to me with too many tears, But be thankful we had so many good years. I gave you my love, and you can only guess How much you've given me in happiness. I thank you for the love that you have shown, But now it is time I travelled on alone. So grieve for me a while, if grieve you must, Then let your grief be comforted by trust. It is only for a while that we must part, So treasure the memories within your heart. I won’t be far away for life goes on. And if you need me, call and I will come. Though you can’t see or touch me, I will be near. And if you listen with your heart, you’ll hear, All my love around you soft and clear. And then, when you come this way alone, I’ll greet you with a smile and a Welcome Home.
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Tribute to
Eccl 3: 1,2,4,7b & 8 Berean Standard Bible 1 To everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under 2heaven:Atime to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot, 4 A time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance, 7b A time to be silent and a time to 8speak,Atime to love and a time to hate, a time for war and a time for peace.
Today is a time for my wife to be at peace. Today is a time never to hate, but to show love for her and speak my thoughts of her good life. Today is not a time to be silent, but a time that I must fight the war within me. Whether to weep and mourn for my loss or to dance and rejoice that she has met her maker and reached the promise land.
Indeed there is a time for everything and the time to meet my dear wife Elizabeth Ama Donkor Odoom-Tsibu was over 55 years ago when I was just a young man of 21 years, and she was a diligent ward assistant at the Breman Asikuma Catholic Hospital where my mother had taken me for medical attention. That was way back in 1967 and just a year later in 1968 I was posted to Breman Asikuma Catholic Boys School, where I was teaching and so our relationship became strong and I was
Soon after that, from 1969, I brought her to Cape Coast and thence to Jukwa where she worked at the Ministry of Agriculture Nursery for a gruelling two years and that is when I knew she was a person that could stand the test of time as she kept with the position despite
determined to look after this soft yet resilient woman that had peace in her eyes but purpose in her step. I was clear about my mission and it gave me fulfilment to see to her welfare.
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By 1976 my wife was on the move again, seeking to further her love for caring and serving people, and went to Efia Nkwanta Hospital on study leave for nursing training where she spent two years. Upon her return, God gave us our first born son Kwame Tsibu in 1979 and just when we thought our basket was full, we held our last born in our hands by 1981, Naana Yeboah, a truly remarkable child, and indeed a close carbon copy of her mother, so determined to achieve a mission until it is
the difficult task. By 1971, I had secured a space for her as a ward assistant at the University Hospital, and there began our home keeping life together at Cape Coast with my little daughter whom my brother had bequithed to me when he died so young in 1966. My wife took our daughter, Abena as her very own child and that is when God chose to give us our first born daugher Nana Nyarkoa in 1973 for a reward. Soon after, MaameAso was born in 1975 and named her Percy Odoom-Tsibu because I was so sure she will be a boy that we chose to name her after my brother before she was born. When she appeared as a girl we rightfully kept the name, something which i will never regret as her nature is truly capable of that name.
"Odonkor!" That is what I will call her when I want to tease her a little. She will say "Ah, why are you calling me that?" and I will reply "Is that not the name you were named?" This was my wife, never to harbour annoyance or anger within her. Remind me to tell you about the one significant time my wife got angry with me but that was actually just one of very few I can bring to mind.
So who was Ama Donkor? A mother, a sister, a support and a companion for life. She loved to be a home maker, she also loved her Ampesi and Fufu and could prepare this in various tasty ways just for us to enjoy. It was later in our lives that this morden day KFC came along I realised my wife was not just a fufu lover but will stay quietly all day on a Sunday and suddenly ask from no where "Ahh, won’t you buy me KFC today?" this happened right up until June before she left us. On her birthday, she was a little poorly and we were all feeling somewhat down when she brightened the atmosphere with that funny question, "So you won’t buy me KFC for my birthday today?" That made the whole house happy and that was how we spent our last joint birthday together since I am born on June 29th and she always took over from me at midnight for her birthday on June 30th.
My wife was not just a strict disciplinarian to our 5 children, not just a home maker and a strength to me, but a business maker, hardworker and trader, always able to provide and
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Whatdone.can I say to the mother of my children for bringing them up to what I see today? Will I not give thanks to God for a life so well spent creating a home of love, honour and peace for us all?
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It really hurts that our planned trips to Israel couldn’t come on because of the pandemic nor our Dubai trip because you fell ill. I really wanted to fulfil my dream we shared for us to see the world together. I suppose it wasn’t meant to be, so until we meet again Ama.
I remember our first trip of many to UK together. What a great time we had. We had travelled to see my beloved cousin and his wife Kumi Mensah and that was another side of my wife I simply loved to see. The joy, the laughter the jokes we all shared are memories I will cherish forever. My wife did not like the cold at all! When the whole house will be in a light jumper to relax, my dear Ama is in full winter jacket shivering, cooking and yet still smiling and ready to chat with everyone. We even went to The Old Trafford to watch the match and now my wife, from Poano in the Asante Bekwai area, is a loyal Man-United fan, nothing can be said against them near her!
ensure there was no "break in transmission" when it came to making our house a home. Because she traded by day, she kept up her nursing career by sorting out the children and working night shifts for a whole year and many such sacrifices until retirement in 2009. It never really occured to me what a sacrifice of sleep, energy and time she had lost just to make us all happy. I give thanks to God for her, she was so hardworking I cannot even describe it.... Ama, I thank you.
This part of the Bible gives me much room for reflection. The Almighty God has always been one of great opposites,
a Season...Eccl 3:5-7a 5 A time
hence my choice of self study at a time of sadness and grief for me. I have always been one to be pragmatic and objective. I have always held the belief that death is part and parcel of life and that there is nothing we can do when God has chosen to give and then take. So why am I feeling this pain in my heart? Why am I finding all this so hard to accommodate? This is a woman who was rather caring for me when my eyes were fading and when my right leg was failing. This is a woman who, when her daughter fell ill in hospital (after 10 good years of marriage), did not leave her side for 8 weeks and chose to sit, sleep, pray and eat on a side sofa until our daughter was healed. This is a woman who will care for every stray person, find food from no where for patients in hospital and pray and worry about everyone else but herself. And now, she has rather gotten sick and has left all of us to mourn her. Oh God, I resign myself that there is a time to weep, to mourn, to count as lost and indeed, a time to die. What can I do? What can I say? I cannot do away with the will of God. IT IS HIS ANSWER.
Before I bid my final farewell to my tiny, sweet wife with size 3 feet, I promised to tell you of the only time I really remember her getting so angry with me. You see, we had gone to my cousin Mr Mensah's funeral and were to be away from our home for one week. Little did she know I had watched her for over 20 years keeping our 7 bedroom house neat and tidy and now all the
cast away stones and a time to gather stones together, a time
Elizabeth Ama Donkor Odoom-Tsibu was a staunch Catholic from her first holy communion until today when we have blessed and washed her and celebrated in the Holy Eucharist of Christ. She has received her Last Supper and I know she is happy, I know she feels protected, and that is how she served in the church as one of the faithful "Christian Mothers" to which I gave my full consent as this was what she wanted. It is rather more unusual for the man in a marriage to join the faith of the woman, but after I watched my wife serve the Lord for so many years, it gave her so much joy that after over 45 years of us being together, she saw me convert to the Catholic Faith and for us to go to church togehter as a Catholic serving couple. May the blessed Virgin Mary, full of grace, now pray for my wife at the hour of her death. This is what I firmly believe will happen. There Is to to
embrace and a time to refrain from 6embracing,Atimeto search and a time to count as lost, a time to keep and a time to 7adiscard,Atime to tear and a time to mend....
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To Everything
May St. Anthony's Guide be with her, may flights of Angels receive her, may the earth lie softly on her face and may the road rise up to meet her well on her journey to paradise.
children had left home, most of them to Accra and abroad so why did we need so much space? I had therefore chosen to build my wife a retirement home for just the two of us but did she see things that way? Not at all! So by the time we returned from the funeral and after my careful planning, the foundation and pillars for our small home were up at the side of our compound. Oh my goodness my wife blew her top in anger! She was upset why we needed to build again, and what is all that for? Why dont I use the money to look after our future and why do we have to do this? She called each of our children and I had to sit and listen to my life story all over again, but fast foward to the day of her retirement party in 2009 and the next morning after that, Ama Donkor my wife, was the first to pick her suitcase and move into her new house with no single old furniture, fixture or appliance to take along, just her clothes and all brand new items, for me to thank her for sacrificing her life for our sake.
My wife, my life, now the strife is over, the battle is done. I promise to keep praying for life and good health to see our children, grandchildren and maybe great grandchildren flourish and maybe in many years to come if God is willing, I will bring you a long report of great successes. Go well ODONKOR my dear, sleep sweetly with our Lord Jesus, don’t leave our side and oh, by the way, one last thing...THANK YOU!!!
And it is from that very land we pulled her traditionally out of her home this morning. It is from there she left to Accra for medical check up and never returned and it is from there I awoke this morning with no one at my side to attend my own wife’s funeral. I thank you all for coming to see her off. She has seen you all and tells me she will continue to pray for us all to be guided and guarded.
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When you remember me, Please do not weep. My body may not be there. It has chosen to sleep. I'm not that far away. My soul lives on, Looking down, watching over You and everyone. And when you feel sad And life seems so blue, Just remember
That my spirit has its arms around you. And on those special days, Times that you wish I could see, That cool breeze flowing past you... Well, that will be me, So don't be sad. Have no fear. God has taken me under his wing, But I'll always be near. I still watch you Every minute, every day. My love and soul are with you, And that's where they will stay.
By Emma Marie Etwell
Always Th e
Tributes by Family
Maa, you have been our rock thoroughly. I will not fail to remember how you were eager to provide for us and so engaged in all sorts of trading. Oh my gosh, you’ll sell whatever you could, cooking pans, clothing and footwear, food stuff, not to mention the favourite Kenkey!
Mummy, you were a professional nurse, but you took a whole year of night duty to enable you pursue her trading activities just to give all 5 of us a comfortable life, and the many people who came through the house, staying with us for one reason or the other. You toiled not for yourself but to create a good future for us your children. You were very industrious, courageous, God fearing, goal setter and an achiever and we are proud to have you as our mother. We are really grateful to God for giving us such a warm, loving and wonderful mother. Mummy, you were THE disciplinarian, despite your warm self, and you would say to us "Me tu mo fo a mofa, Nyame nim s3 medie maka" and this has guided our growth and maturity today. Even though you’ve left us , the discipline and moral values will never depart from us, be rest
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Baatanpa da yie Nyame mfa wo kra nsie, amen!
Our Mother, a jollygood fellow!
Children
Nana Nyarkoa (Mabel)
Ama Pokuaa, I’m pained papa!!! No words, absolutely no words or hugs or back rubs make any of this better. Ah Ama, this is excruciating!!! You’re my rock, you’re my serenity when I need to brave through life’s challenges, how am I supposed to cope without you. Your counsel, making light of very tough situation because you believed once we prayed about it, it went straight to God’s ears.
Sweetie pompo, that’s how we called each other sometimes. And that reminds me of how my mates in Oguaa hall laughed at me because you brought me a cake on my matriculation day! That’s you mummy, that’s how excited you were to see me excel. As a nurse, your wish was that I become a doctor, nonetheless you have been my biggest cheerleader in my professional life. You cheered me on every part of my professional journey……”Nana, you can do it, go prove everybody wrong, aren’t you my daughter?”……. And that’s how you got me to get my first job at GSMF, even before I finished school, when I had gone to do the required school internship and came complaining to you my novice understanding of workplace dynamics!
the praises of my God shall still my heart and tongue employ
Mummy, we danced on that Sunday, we danced to gospel music all of mid morning and afternoon in that ward on the 6th floor. I was only going to finish with my rebrand meetings and come stay with you on Monday evening till your surgery. I don’t even know how I braved through the next day after you left with the relaunch activities, but of course that’s you, holding me up again to shine once more even in death! You were at your best that weekend, the best you had been in those last couple of weeks, your
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Ama, my own personal angel in heaven, Donkor Hemaa, Sweetie pompo, pumpkin, Ama Pokuaa (hmmm too many names I had for you), those smiles and little dances whenever we drove through the gates at home are gone forever. The persistent “Nana, na mo be di dien” as soon as we arrive has been absent in the last few weeks mummy, I miss you so much and I just don’t know how to manage this pain. Oh my goodness this is really painful!!!
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Donkor Hemaa, this is not goodbye neither is it parting ways because though you go away with a big chunk of me, you’ll continue to be a part of me which I’ll carry with me everywhere everyday for the rest of my life. I love you dearly and you’ll live in my heart forever!
Mummy, I know you’re in heaven, keep well, be happy and be blessed (and oh I’ve had a little conversation with God about your coming so the heavens are ready with a beautiful arrival for you).
This is not the time for me to say what kind of person you are or were, your life is already a testimony. I promised myself to honor you everyday of my adult life and not wait to do so when you’re gone and so I pray I did my best while you were here and you’ve left feeling totally loved.
vitals were up the doctors were happy so I was totally confident of the success of the surgery. Much more we had prayed, oh dear we prayed! Maaso, Naana, Sister, Kwame, Della, Daddy, Angie, name it, we prayed! That fateful Monday morning of July 25, gosh that is one day that’s going to be difficult for me for the rest of my life, I couldn’t feel my legs (literally), and it felt like my heart was pumping out of my body! The thought of you gone was just unbearable and my world seemed closed totally!
Sleep well darling Sleep well my beautiful soul, Sleep well, until we meet again! I Loooove love you Ama, Adieu!
My faith has kept me going mummy, you were a faithful woman yourself, and we prayed fervently for your recovery. To hear that in your last few hours of life on this earth you were saying your rosery and your final words were “Lord have mercy” gives me the assurance that you are in heaven. For this to happen, I know God still answered our prayers, except for the fact that His answer to our prayers was not what we wanted to happen. God’s will is way above our wants, and so despite the pain this brings us, we understand He needs you in heaven for a higher calling and we’ll learn to be at peace.
You gave us life To live as we please, You gave us love and Support to follow our dreams. Your beauty lives Forever deep in our souls, The memory of your love Fills our hearts And we are never alone.
by Christine Currah
and I came to spend time with you on the 8th of April and also to inform you about our partial reallocation to the UK for Jason’s school. Little did I know that I will not come back to you mummy.
I will miss you Donkor Donkor Nyame nfa wo nsie yie Till we meet again
ELIZABETH AMA OD00M-TSIBU’S FUNERAL 30
On the weekend before you left, you were so cheerful, I thanked and praised God all day and as usual you were on and on with your jokes and even asked when I was coming, to which I responded, “9th mummy, just 2 weeks, it’ll soon come so we can dance”. You left the next day mummy, you didn’t give me any sign when we were speaking that you wouldn’t even make the next day. It’s so painful and unbearable, but God knows best.
Jasonyou.
To explain how much you mean to me is an impossible task mum. You were the sweetest, kindest and loving mum I could ever have. You had a heart of gold, you lived your entire life servicing humanity and making sure that your children had whatever you didn’t get. I love you sooo much mummy, and I’ll always need
I can’t even find the words any more………. I love you mum and will always need you. As you leave this world, there are no goodbyes for us. Wherever you are, you will forever be in my heart.
Maa, Ama Donkor, Donkor Hemaa, today you’ve left a hole in my heart. I’ve been battling days and nights to write my tribute and I tell you it has been extremely difficult. Why? Because these words may signify the end for you, and I’m not ready to accept that.
ELIZABETHmummy!AMAOD00M-TSIBU’S FUNERAL 31
I love you Donkor Hemaa, I’ll forever love you
I can only say this, that the hole you’ve left in my heart is so profound and “unappeasable”. This is unacceptable maa, very unacceptable. I’m still waiting to hear from you mummy, what you needed me to know the day prior your departure. You specifically asked to speak to me that Sunday, I called, we spoke for a while, and you still weren’t able to tell me why you had requested for me. Was that you trying to see me one last time? Or did you really want to tell me something and couldn’t? These thoughts have kept me awake and as I mentioned earlier, I’ve struggled to write this tribute partly because of this.
I know I’m expected to glorify you, somehow, and all you’ve done to shape me in this journey of life with words, however Mummy, there are no words on this earth that can or will describe what you meant to me (us), did for us and what you’re doing for us now, even in death. We (your children) and many others gathered here, embody your testament. You’re the epitome of uncommon, unconditional love and service,
Mummy, you’re one of the strongest, bravest and kindest persons I could ever have. Without you I wouldn’t be here today, I wouldn't be the person I am, and wouldn't have the life I have now. You’re everything to me and more. Mum you are an inspiring soul, always there for all who came to you with their troubles and challenges. Your hospitality was unmatched and in your own special way, you made people feel important. You’re the most humble loving, compassionate, understanding and family-orientated person I know.
Not a day goes by that I don’t miss you, mummy. I thought it would get easier as time went by, but it is not. I do not know how to come to terms with reality, but I know that, for sure, you are the best mother I could ask for in so many ways.
Naana Yeboah (Ellen)
No matter what age, I will always need you, Mum. Love You.
BABY LAST, as you always called me, no matter how old I was, you’d still call me that name when I am with my mates. I frown sometimes but I like it because whenever you call me that name it meant you had scolded me so badly, and you were looking for an opportunity to talk to me about your actions and make me understand the reason why you did that.
Forever In Our Hearts
Oh Mummy, how I miss you. The awful anguish and grief I have are unlike anything I have ever experienced. No words can express my grief of losing you from my life.
My roommate in Uni heard of your demise, she called and cried so hard for few minutes and then after calming ourselves down we started to talk about you. Memories of your face, warm smile, larger than life heart and good deeds brought smiles to our faces again. Remembering how you always fed us throughout the full semester with the excuse that we are learning and not eating good homemade food. You’d say we looked too pale, because we were buying " check check" sold by the roadside which was likely contaminated. For this reason, you cooked variety of meals, not only for me but also for my roommates. Your signature dish "Abomu" (traditional stew made in Asanka) became our favourite meal and we’d always request for it on Saturdays and by Friday afternoon you’d call to announce how you’ve just bought the biggest kobi that will be enough for us all. You were a mother to them all.
ELIZABETH AMA OD00M-TSIBU’S FUNERAL 32
May the Road Rise Up to Meet You
Traditional Irish Blessing
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May green be the grass you walk on, May blue be the skies above you, May pure be the joys that surround you, May true be the hearts that love you.
May the road rise up to meet you. May the wind be always at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face; the rains fall soft upon your fields. And until we meet again,
May God hold you in the palm of His hand. May the road rise up to meet you May the wind be always at your back May the warm rays of sun fall upon your home And may the hand of a friend always be near.
Tributes by Grandchildren
Grandchildren
She didn’t raise us to be lazy people, she taught us the hard way how to work hard and clean the house and keep a safe home for all. She taught us how to cook by giving us the opportunity to prepare our own meals sometimes when we came to visit her.
ELIZABETH AMA OD00M-TSIBU’S FUNERAL 35
Grandma is always a warm bosom to embrace. The first thing she’d do when she sees us and anyone for that matter is to warmly welcome you with a hug. “Akwaaaba oo na 3tse s3n”, she’d say. Always ready to give her last so that we’d feel comfortable and satisfied. Grandma has a magic she used to pull; no matter how small the stew or soup or whatever left over food is, she’d bring it back to life and, in so doing, in even greater quantities to feed everyone. She was there when we all were babies and continued to take care of us even in death! She was always our savior, the one who’d take us into her bountiful bosom every time we needed to escape from the beatings of our parents, her children. She taught us the importance of service and hard work, that it is important to serve others than sit ordering people around.
Grandma, our grandma. She is the warmest yet most disciplined disciplinarian we have ever known. Whenever we did something bad, we knew without a doubt that we’d get a scolding from our beloved grandma. And after she’s done with you, she’d feed you all the food in the world!
Our Abuela! Our G mama! Your love will stay with us forever, your gifts, your wisdom, your laughter, your joy, your embrace, your counsel, your food, your warmth and most importantly your kindness and diligence which led us to know God for ourselves and serve Him just like you did! Rest in the bosom of God now and wait for us, for as Gigi says:
So we trust in the promise of God that we will definitely meet you at the Lord’s supper and it will be all joy to hear you embrace us and say; “Akwaaaba oo na 3tse S3n”. Trent, Dzidzor, Jason, Kwaku and I miss you a lot and we’ll keep you in our prayers and hearts forever!
ELIZABETH AMA OD00M-TSIBU’S FUNERAL 36
“G-mama is in Heaven
heaven one day and
Emefa, Kwaku, Jason, Dzidzor & Trent
Rest Well Grandma! We love you!
She’d always provide everything for us, from towels to toothbrushes so that even if you didn’t plan to sleep over you still could. She always always had more to give than to receive from anyone at all!
By Kobina Kumi-Mensah.
ELIZABETH AMA OD00M-TSIBU’S FUNERAL 37
Writing a tribute for a dear one is one of the most difficult things and I found it hard to do. And my question is, why are we here this morning? We are gathered here to reflect on the quality life of Elizabeth Ama Odum-Tsibu,- our wife, mother, sister and a friend whose mortal body lies before us, and to mourn and grieve with the family.
Uncle Kumi & Janet
Let’s pause and reflect on Revelation 14:13; “And I heard a voice from heaven saying,”Write this, Blessed are the dead who die in the LORD from now on.” “Blessed indeed,” says the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours, for their deeds follow them.”
their two visits to us in UK, we enjoyed each other company so much that if we had own on way, we would have kept them with us.
My memories of knowing Elizabeth date from 1970s as a teacher in Cape Coat. Our relationship grew stronger even when I let Ghana for Nigeria, because I always visited them on my trips to Ghana. It was no surprised, when my car was stolen in Ghana December 1979, she and the husband took me in and encouraged and cared for me until I return to Nigeria. Even when I left for United Kingdom, I continued my regular visit to Cape Coast and stayed with them whenever I came to Unsurprisingly,Ghana.when
Ama extended her hospitable reception to our church brother Iain who visited us in Ghana 2019, and we spent some days in Cape Coast with him. Ama. Iain has never stopped mentioning your delicious kontomere stew, garden eggs stew, groundnuts soup and emo tuo. Ama, Iain says, Rest in Perfect Peace.
I came Ghana 1993 with my Caribbean wife Janet, she embraced her with indescribable hospitability. She always welcomed her with open arms and became so close to Janet that sometimes Tsibu and me think they are plotting a coup against Duringus.
I cherished her relationship with God and persistence that enabled her husband Kwame being baptised in Catholic church and a communicant. Ama, well Elizabeth,done!youare too precious to be forgotten, and priceless to ever replaced. I wish I could share another moment with you and see that smiling face. It is truly rare to find someone so special, pure in heart and kind as you are all the times we spent together. I will hold them dearly in my heart from now until forever when we meet. You have fought the good fight and won the race, it’s time to return to your maker- God.
ELIZABETH AMA OD00M-TSIBU’S FUNERAL 38
Da yie!, Da yie!, Ama Da yie! and May your Soul Rest in Perfect Peace
Damirifa Dwe!, Damifira Dwe!, Elizabeth, May your soul rest in perfect peace. Honestly, it took days for the news about her death to sink into my head, because we were hoping they would come and spend this year Christmas with us in UK.
She loved me and I loved her. When she and Tsibu came to England they always stayed with us. When we came to Cape Coast we always stayed with them and when they were in Accra they made time to come and stay with us in Tema. In fact, she would want to look after us, even when she was staying with us. That was my Elizabeth.
From the moment I met her she treated me like a long, lost sister. Although we were staying in a family house where provision had been made for us to be looked after, Elizabeth insisted that she would prepare all our meals for us even though she was on night duty at the time. She made us fresh peanut soup and it was delicious as have all the meals I have eaten from her over the years.
Elizabeth was my sister. I called her my little, big sister. She cared for everyone and everyone loved her. She was open and friendly with everyone.
I am going to miss her so much but I know that she is safe in Jesus’ arms and have the hope that we will see each other again in glory.
Farewell my dear Elizabeth. May the Lord bless and keep you till we meet again.
I first met Elizabeth in 1993 when my husband brought me to Ghana a year after we got married, so I have known her for 29 years.
By Janet Kumi-Mensah.
My “little big sister"
ELIZABETH AMA OD00M-TSIBU’S FUNERAL 39
As we bid you farewell, please know that we will never forget your words of encouragement, playful teasing, and unmatched humility. We have learnt a great deal about character and compassion from you, and these lessons will forever remain in our hearts.
Youspecial.are
We are immensely blessed to have had a mother-in-law like you, affectionately referred to by most as, “Ama Donkor”. Mummy, you were loving, kind-hearted and were always excited to receive us in your home. As serviceable as you were, you would never fail to prepare delectable dishes for us whenever we visited. Always ensuring we were comfortable; you went above and beyond to make us feel
ELIZABETH AMA OD00M-TSIBU’S FUNERAL 40
Prof. Della & Efua
Our Mother-in-Law
truly a mother and you raised your children to be as kind, respectful, loving and God-fearing as you are. It is no wonder that we have found such incredible life partners through your handiwork with your children. As a matter of fact, we never felt like in-laws because you treated us as your own children, and we appreciate you so much for that.
Until we meet again, Rest in Perfect peace, Mom
Tributes by AssociatesFriendsandColleaques
Sleep well menua, medofo, Nyame na H3n na Mary )nnfa wonsie asomdwee mu. Your children will continually be my children.
To a Darling Sister
From Lawrencia Mensah
(a.k.a Ama Donkor, Ama S3
ELIZABETH AMA OD00M-TSIBU’S FUNERAL 42
When a butterfly brushes gently by me so carefully, I know it’s you assuring me you are free from pain and agony. When a gentle fragrance of a flower catches my attention, I know it’s you reminding me to appreciate the simple things in life. When I hear the rain on my window sill, I hear your words of wisdom and will remember everything you told me. Ama, as I affectionately called you, you have left an enormous vacuum in my life. Little did I know you were bidding me farewell. Ama S3, tears won’t allow me to write what I’m suppose to write.
Death has stolen my beloved sister, my mentor in several ways, my confidante, my “mate” away from me. Ama, who again? Who can replace you and what we shared? All that I will say is, I leave everything in God’s hands, who has asked the Holy Spirit and Angels to lead you smoothly to Our Holy Mother, Mary.
I will never forget you my dearest. Da yie Onua Pa, Da yie. I love you
Grandma, as we affectionately called her, was more than a mother to us. She met us, when we were hopeless, persecuted, and mistreated, wandering... She never missed an opportunity to put a smile on our faces.
"I was hungry and you fed me, thirsty and you gave me a drink; I was a stranger and you received me in your homes". (Matthew 25:34-35)
Grandma was an angel for us. She was never rude and even when wronged, she would forgive. She did not just welcome us with open arms into her home, but she took us as her own grandchildren. She comforted us, encouraged us, trained us, corrected us and went above and beyond to make sure we were comfortable.
May your sweet soul rest in perfect peace. Da Rev'dyie.Tokpa & Mrs. Topa & Family
"Remember to welcome strangers in your homes." (Hebrews 13:2)
She actually fulfilled God's mandate: when we were hungry, she gave us to eat, when we were thirsty she gave us to drink.
An angel has gone back home. Now, ” the King of kings may say to Grandma, ‘ Come, you that are blessed by my Father! Come and possess the kingdom...
ELIZABETH AMA OD00M-TSIBU’S FUNERAL 43
In her quest for knowledge and skills, Mrs. Elizabeth Odoom-Tsibu was sponsored by the University to undergo a two (2) year training in Nursing at the Nurses and Midwives Training College at Sekondi in 1976 and returned to serve the University in 1979.
The Late Mrs. Elizabeth Odoom-Tsibu was employed as a Trainee Ward Attendant in the University College Hospital in September 1971. After a successful training, she was promoted to a Ward Assistant in 1973.
Through her dedication and by dint of hard work she was promoted to the position of Senior Enrolled Nurse in 2001 and promoted again to the position of Principal Enrolled Nurse in 2004, a position she held until her retirement from the University Services in 2009.
The Directorate of University Health Services University Of Cape Coast
Mrs. Elizabeth Odoom-Tsibu worked at various wards and units of the hospital and she was a delight to work with. She shared her knowledge and experience with both old and younger generation of nurses in the hospital.
Mama Donkor, as you were popularly called by colleagues and juniors at work, will be missed for the jokes and fun at work.
The management and staff of the University of Cape Coast Hospital loved you so much but your creator has different plans and has called you back to eternity.
ELIZABETH AMA OD00M-TSIBU’S FUNERAL 44
Till we meet again. Fare the well! Amen!
Agona WelfareAbodomClub‘80’
pass by. When she fell ill, we visited her in small groups, praying and hoping that the Lord would restore her strength. But He says ''Your ways are not my ways, neither are my ways yours'' Sister Ama, we will forever remember your beaming smiles, laughter and hospitality
Fare thee well, dear sister. May the Lord keep you till we meet TOGETHER...again.
She honoured all her obligations promptly and took part in all events of the Club. Whenever meetings were held in Cape Coast, she perfectly played the hostess just as she did during ordinary visits by individual members. Sister Ama's earthenware bowl (apotoyewa) was always available and filled to make us enjoy our special delicacy... Agona Ampesi .
''What can we say, for death has claimed our friend. We are left bereaved and sad. And yet it is not the end. (CH:136)
FOREVER.!
ELIZABETH AMA OD00M-TSIBU’S FUNERAL 45
Mrs. Elizabeth Odoom Tsibu, who we popularly called Ama Donko, joined the Welfare Club when the founding members returned home from Nigeria and reorganized it. As a wife of an Abodom citizen, she was naturally eligible to be a member of the club. As a club member, Sister Ama was very dedicated and committed to the Club. Whichever locations meetings were scheduled to take place, she and her husband attended, until the time of her illness.
ELIZABETH AMA OD00M-TSIBU’S FUNERAL 46
RETIRED ASSOCIATIONNURSES/MIDWIVESUCCHOSPITAL
“Come home to Me Ama and rest”.
UCC Hospital Nurses/MidwivesRetiredAssociation
We are here today, mourning with painful and sorrowful hearts because our dear sister is no longer with us.
MHB 976
Now the Labourer’s task is over Now the battle day is past Father in Gracious keeping Leave me now thy servant sleeping.
What we, the retired Nurses, would never forget about Ama is that whenever we were on night shift with her, she would make sure no member was hungry. She would bring food from the house for every nurse in her ward, usually her favourite meal, apem ampesie with kontomire abom and koobi. When the retired nurses visited her home during the time she was unwell, Ama made sure to exhibit her old self by making us laugh totally at everything she said. This she did by the way she would respond to her name “Ama Donkor eeee” then she would respond “yieeeei” like she normally did when we were together at UCC hospital years ago.
Ama Donkor, as we all used to call her way back at the UCC Hospital, is very humble, friendly and very hardworking. She was always there for her patients due to her devotion to the nursing work.
Death changes everything but everything does not change death. God saw you getting tired so He put His Arm around you and whispered in your ears
May the Lord be with your soul till we meet again!
Fare thee well mother, Da yie, Rest In Perfect peace!
ELIZABETH AMA OD00M-TSIBU’S FUNERAL 47
“Everything that happens in this world, happens at the time God chooses. He sets the time for birth and the time for death…..” Ecclesiastes 3:1-2
Mother Elizabeth Odoom Tsibu, affectionately called by the Christian Mothers’ Association members as “sweet 16 “ joined the CMA- Pedu in the year 2013. She was punctual and regular at meetings, very mindful of her financial obligations and thus paid her dues and other contributions on time. Mother Tsibu was a quiet and respectful and very warm person. She took ill about 2years ago and though partially recovered, was unable to attend meetings regularly from then. As part of the Association’s activities, the aged and sick mothers were visited and so as was expected of us, members of the Asociation visited her on the 7th of March this year. She was extremelyhappy to see us, we prayed and sung several songs with her. Little did we know that the next time we would be with her will be paying our tribute to her.
May Virgin Mother Mary and the host of angels lead you, Mother Elizabeth, through your journey to the heavens.
THE CHRISTIAN MOTHERS’ ASSOCIATION ST JOHN THE BAPTIST CHURCH – PEDU, CAPE COAST
Gallery of
Refrain: Then sings my soul, my Saviour God; to you, How great you art, how great you art! Then sings my soul, my Saviour God; to you, How great you art, how great you art!
ELIZABETH AMA OD00M-TSIBU’S FUNERAL 52
2. Open now the crystal fountain, Whence the healing stream does ow; Let the re and cloudy pillar Lead me all my journey through: Strong Deliverer, You are still my strength and shield.
1.What a Friend we have in Jesus, All our sins and grief to bear! What a privilege to carry Everything to God in prayer! O what peace we often forfeit, O what needless pain we bear, All because we do not carry Everything to God in prayer!
350. Guide Me, O You Great Redeemer.
I scarce can take it in that on the cross, my burden gladly bearing, he bled and died to take away our sin;
2.And when I think that God, his Son not sparing, sent him to die-
3. Are we weak and heavy-laden, Cumbered with a load of care? Jesus only is our refuge Take it to the Lord in prayer; Do your friends despise, forsake you? Take it to the Lord in prayer; In His arms He’ll take and shield you, You will nd a solace there.
403. O Lord My God When I In Awesome Wonder
1. Guide me, O you great Redeemer, Pilgrim through this barren land; I am weak, but you are mighty; Hold me with your powerful hand: Bread of heaven, Feed me now and evermore.
3. When I tread the verge of Jordan, Bid my anxious fears subside; Death of death, and hell's Destruction, Land me safe on Canaan's side: Songs of praises I will ever give to you.
1. O Lord my God, when I in awesome wonder consider all the works your hands have made, I see the stars, I hear the mighty thunder, your power throughout the universe displayed:
2. Have we trials and temptations? Is there trouble anywhere? We should never be discouraged, Take it to the Lord in prayer. Can we nd a friend so faithful Who will all our sorrows share? Jesus knows our every weakness, Take it to the Lord in prayer.
259. What A Friend We Have In Jesus.
3. When Christ shall come, with shout of acclamation and take me homewhat joy shall ll my heart! Then shall I bow in humble adoration, and there proclaim: My God, how great you art!
4.[Refrain]Butwe
fellowship sweet We will sit at His feet, Or we’ll walk by His side in the way; What He says we will do; Where He sends, we will go, Never fear, only trust and obey. [Refrain]
3.Refrain:Earth to earth, and dust to dust, Calmly now the words we say; Left behind, we wait in trust For the resurrection day.
416. When We Walk With The Lord.
4.They marked the footsteps that He trod, His zeal inspired their breast; And following their incarnate God, Possess the promised rest.
364. Now The Labourer's Task Is Over.
2. Once they were mourning here below, And wet their couch with tears; They wrestled hard, as we do now, With sins, and doubts, and fears.
1. When we walk with the Lord In the light of His Word, What a glory He sheds on our way; While we do His good will, He abides with us still, And with all who will trust and obey.
5.[Refrain]Thenin
3. Not a burden we bear, Not a sorrow we share, But our toil He doth richly repay; Not a grief or a loss, Not a frown or a cross, But is blest if we trust and obey.
Refrain
311. Give Me Wings Of Faith To Rise
1. Now the laborer’s task is o’er; Now the battle day is past; Now upon the farther shore Lands the voyager at last.
2. There the tears of earth are dried; There its hidden things are clear; There the work of life is tried By a juster Judge than here.
Father,Refrain:in your gracious keeping Leave we now Thy servant sleeping.
1.Give me the wings of faith to rise Within the veil, and see The saints above, how great their joys, How bright their glories be.
TrustRefrain:and obey, For there’s no other way To be happy in Jesus, But to trust and obey.
2. Not a shadow can rise, Not a cloud in the skies, But His smile quickly drives it away; Not a doubt or a fear, Not a sigh or a tear, Can abide while we trust and obey. [Refrain]
3. I ask them whence their victory; They, with united breath, Ascribe their conquest to the Lamb, Their triumph to His death.
ELIZABETH AMA OD00M-TSIBU’S FUNERAL 53
never can prove The delights of His love, Until all on the altar we lay; For the favor He shows, And the joy He bestows, Are for them who will trust and obey.
2. Lofty thoughts have never lled my mind, Far beyond my sight all ambitious deeds.
4. As a child rests on his mother’s knee, So I place my soul in your loving care.
106. The Lord's My Shepherd, I'll Not Want.
1.The Lord's my Shepherd, I'll not want. He makes me down to lie In pastures green; he leadeth me
5. Israel, put all your hope in God, Place your trust in him, now and evermore.
3. In your peace I have maintained my soul, I have kept my heart in your quiet peace.
MyAntiphon:soulis longing for your peace, Near to you, my God
5. O generous love! that He, who smote, In Man for man the foe, The double agony in Man For man should undergo.
6. And in the garden secretly, And on the Cross on high, Should teach His brethren, and inspire To su er and to die.
34. My Soul Is Longing For Your Peace.
7. Praise to the Holiest in the height, And in the depth be praise; In all His words most wonderful, Most sure in all His ways.
4. And that a higher gift than grace Should esh and blood re ne, God’s Presence and His very Self, And Essence all divine.
5. Our glorious Leader claims our praise For His own pattern given; While the long cloud of witnesses, Show the same path to heaven.
1. Lord, you know that my heart is not proud, And my eyes are not lifted from the earth.
ELIZABETH AMA OD00M-TSIBU’S FUNERAL 54
For you have deigned to ask of me, The love of my poor heart.
3.Yes, Heaven is the prize! When sorrows press around, Look up beyond the skies, Where hope and strength are found. 't Is Heaven, etc.
5.Goodness and mercy all my life Shall surely follow me; And in God's house for evermore My dwelling place shall be.
4. Oh, how I fear you, living God! With deepest, tenderest fears, And worship you with trembling hope. And penitential tears.
Chorus: 't Is Heaven; yes heaven; Yes Heaven is the prize; 't Is Heaven; 't is heaven; Yes Heaven is the prize.
212. Yes Heaven Is The Prize.
1.Yes heaven is the prize, My soul shall strive to gain One glimpse of Paradise, Repays a life of pain.
5.Yes, Heaven is the prize! The strife will soon be past, Faint not, but raise your eyes, And struggle to the last. 't Is Heaven, etc.
1. My God, how wonderful you are. Your majesty how bright, How beautiful your mercy-seat, In depths of burning light!
5. Yet I may love you too, O Lord.
3. How beautiful, how beautiful, The sight of you must be. Your endless wisdom, boundless power, And wondrous purity!
2. On how dread are your eternal years, O everlasting Lord! By prostrate Spirits day and night, Incessantly adored.
7.Father of Jesus, love's reward, What rapture win it be, Prostrate before your throne to lie, And then your face to see!
4.Yes, Heaven is the prize! Oh, it's not hard to gain; He surely wins who tries, For hope can conquer pain. 't Is Heaven, etc.
2.Yes, Heaven is the prize! My soul, Oh think of this; All earthly goods despise, For such a crown of bliss. 't Is Heaven, etc.
271. My God How Wonderful You Are.
6.No earthly father loves like you, No mother e'er so mild, Bears and forbears as you have done. With me your sinful child.
6.Yes, Heaven is the prize! Faith shows the crown to gain, Hope lights the way and dies; But love will always reign. 't Is Heaven, etc.
1.Abide with me; fast falls the eventide; The darkness deepens; Lord with me abide. When other helpers fail and comforts ee, Help of the helpless, O abide with me.
4.me.Ifear
ELIZABETH AMA OD00M-TSIBU’S FUNERAL 54
3.AlleluiaAlleluia, alleluia, alleluia! O risen Lord, all praise to you, Who from our sin has set us free, That we may live eternally, Alleluia!
1. Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia! The strife is o'er, the battle done, the victory of life is won; the song of triumph has begun.
5.Hold up your cross before my closing eyes; Shine through the gloom and point me to the Heaven’sskies. morning breaks, and earth’s vain shadows ee; In life, in death, O Lord, abide with me.
2.Alleluia!Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia!
349. Abide With Me; Fast Falls The Eventide.
On the third morn, he rose again, Glorious in majesty to reign, O let us swell the joyful strain,
no foe, with you at hand to bless; Ills have no weight, and tears no bitterness. Where is death’s sting? Where, grave, your Ivictory?triumph still, if you abide with me.
2. Swift to its close ebbs out life’s little day; Earth’s joys grow dim; its glories pass away; Change and decay in all around I see; O you who changest not, abide with me.
3. I need your presence every passing hour. What but your grace can foil the tempter’s Who,power?like yourself, my guide and stay can be? Through cloud and sunshine, O abide with
190. Alleluia, Alleluia, Alleluia!.
8. Yes, Heaven is the prize! Death opens wide the door, And then the spirit ies, To God for evermore. 't Is Heaven, etc.
7. Yes, Heaven is the prize! Too much cannot be given; And he alone is wise, Who gives up all for Heaven. 't Is Heaven, etc.
I miss you all dearly, so keep up your chin. Until the day comes we’re together Again
Do not stand By my grave, and cryI am not there. I did not die.
Do not stand By my grave, and weep. I am not there, I do not sleepI am the thousand winds that blow I am the diamond glints in snow I am the sunlight on ripened grain, I am the gentle, autumn rain.
As you awake with morning’s hush, I am the swift up-flinging rush Of quiet birds in circled flight, I am the day transcending soft night.
By Clare Harner
Do Not Stand At MyGrave And Weep
God richly bless you for your prayers, presence and presents during the funeral celebration
OdumAppreciationTsibu
The widower, children and the entire family of the late
hereby express their sincerest appreciation to you for mourning with them in their time of bereavement.