“For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who sleep in Jesus”
(1Thess. 4:14).
The name by which we have called our mother whose mortal remains lie before us this morning over the years is Mami. We grew up to know her as a highly principled, disciplined and time-conscious personality. As a disciplinarian, she was fair and firm in ensuring that her children lived a disciplined life; at the back of her mind was this Biblical passage which reads “train children in the right way and when old, they will not stray” (Prov. 22:6). We were brought up in a closely-knit family setting and one of Mami’s main concern was the need for cohesion and oneness among her children. She had no favourites among us; she treated us all equally and exhorted us to always love one another and to look out for each other while remembering each other in our prayers. Mami encouraged us to be faithful to the Lord in our various callings and ministries to which the Lord has called us. Furthermore, she also spoke to us about the need for us to remain faithful to the Lord, to be content with what we have and not be envious of what others possess or what they have attained. These virtues/values inculcated into us very early in life have helped to shape our lives to be what we are today.
As an educationist, she has had a positive influence on so many lives over the years; from those she taught in the Primary and Basic Schools as well as those she helped to groom to become teachers in the then Teacher Training Colleges at Agona Nsaba and Bompata, Asante Akim. One can just imagine the many lives she impacted at the Ridge Church School where she taught for nearly ten (10) years.
Mami’s Christian upbringing influenced the way she looked at issues socially, culturally and religiously. Her faith in the God who has made Himself known through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ made all the difference. Her bold faith in the Lord made her a non-conformist; she would therefore not compromise her faith in terms of those who due to superstitious beliefs lived in fear. She was born a twin and by the grace of God, she also gave birth to a set of twins.
Mami was an intercessor; she prayed daily for all her children and other relatives. She would regularly call us on the phone to find out how we were faring and also to assure us of her prayer support for us. Her focus was also global, with the radio set by her side she captured prayer points from what was happening not only in Ghana but outside and that allowed her to pick up prayer points (items) for prayer.
The late Mrs Patience Akweley Akunor had a concern for the needs of others. She was generous to a fault; she would share any gift of money she received with others. She would often indicate to whom the amount she was parting with should be given.
Mami wrote a number of skits and plays. She played different roles in plays in Church settings, in the Avenue “A” Series on GBC TV as well as the then Drama Studio in Accra (the site of the present National Theatre). Apart from the fact that Mami loved singing, she has composed about 16 songs.
Probably Mami’s last major assignment on earth was when a family friend who is also a Minister of the Gospel visited her in early February this year and indicated to her that since last year, she had been praying asking God what was left for her to do before the Lord would call her home. The Minister indicated that God had heard her prayers and that what she was expected to do was to pray for her children and also to bless them. Fortunately, we were all gathered beside her bed. She had that opportunity to fulfil that divine assignment by taking turns to pray for us and also to bless us. With that done, we all knew that the good Lord could call her home any moment after that.
Some of Mami’s statements that indicated clearly to us that she was ready and preparing our minds for her exit were the following: “I am going to leave you suddenly one of these days…” “I am tired, I need to go home”. When we pushed for her to answer where exactly, she responded “To my Father’s house”. When pressured further where her Father’s house was, she responded by indicating clearly, “To my Father’s house in Heaven (above)’’. About two months before she departed from this earthly existence, she narrated to us a dream she had on three consecutive days. In her dream she saw a huge tall man in white robes standing behind her and who whispered to her that “when a believer dies, he/she goes to rest”.
About three weeks before her birthday, she asked us to pray for God’s grace to attain her 98th birthday. God indeed heard her prayers, and on 8th July 2024, she celebrated her 98th birthday before she was eventually called home on Saturday, 24th August 2024.
Our gratitude goes to God who gave us Mami Patience Akweley Akunor as our mother and for a life well-lived. She has indeed left behind a lasting legacy in the many lives she impacted. We are grateful to Dr. Barfour Awuah who took a personal interest in our Mum and offered free medical services to her till God called her home. We are equally grateful to Catechist George Odame for picking up the cost of the laboratory services whenever some lab tests need to be run for our late Mum.
Mami, just as you shared with us, we know that your mortal remains would be interred, but your soul lives on in the bosom of the Lord. Rest well, Mami. Oke nyiemi saminya. Oke womi saminya.
Dear Family and Friends,
Her kindness was a light that brightened even the darkest days. Whether it was a warm smile or a listening ear, she made everyone feel valued and loved. We will always cherish the moments she spent helping others, demonstrating that compassion is a powerful gift.
Grandma’s passion for life was infectious. She approached every endeavor with enthusiasm, inspiring us to pursue our dreams and interests wholeheartedly. Her energy and zest for life showed us the importance of embracing our passions, no matter how big or small.
Though she was gentle, Grandma also possessed a firmness that commanded respect. She set boundaries and instilled in us the importance of discipline and responsibility. Her strength guided us, teaching us that love sometimes means making tough decisions.
Most importantly, her compassion knew no bounds. She had an extraordinary ability to empathize with others, reminding us to always be there for those in need. Her heart was open, welcoming, and always ready to support anyone who crossed her path.
As we remember our grandmother today, we celebrate the profound impact she has had on each of us. Her legacy of integrity, kindness, passion, firmness, and compassion will continue to guide us as we navigate our own lives. We love you, Yomoyo, and you will forever live in our hearts.
Mame Patience Akweley Akunor was a mother with no boundaries to us all, though quiet and very observant. Mame always welcomed and opened up her home to all of us; and shared with us the little goodies at her disposal. She was a selfless helper, a silent listener, a great advisor and a motivator in our marriages to her children. She was readily available to share her life experiences and beautiful God-given skills, especially beads and soap-making, including tie and dye.
Mame always encouraged us in a humble spirit with God’s word and urged us not to give up in life’s journey. Mame (Nanaa Bibio) and our Late Auntie Ameh (Nanaa Agbo) endowed with matured parenting skills teamed up to babysit our children with graceful open hearts and hands. We appreciate all that you did for us while living here on earth. Nothing could replace your immeasurable love bestowed on us. Now you have left us to rest with the Lord eternally from all earthly woes . Though you have gone away and we would see you no more living with us, you would always be present in our hearts and minds.
We your highly favoured daughters-in-law would miss you dearly.
Mame wɔ dzobann yɛ Kristo Yesu mli.
Auntie Akwele was Mummy’s beloved friend. They met at the Agogo Basel Mission Training College in 1943 and remained close friends throughout their lives. We’ve heard countless stories about their student days in Britain, and teaching experience at Agogo. It was delightful to watch them light up whenever they met and welcome each other with “yegee.”
Auntie Akwele was a second mother to us and while she had pet names for each of us, it was no secret that Ayeyidwom, her godchild, was her favorite. They shared a beautiful bond that blossomed into a warm friendship.
Auntie “Koole,” we are truly grateful that even after Mummy’s passing, you continued to reach out to check on us, in spite of your own challenges. We will always remember you.
Rest in Peace, Odofo, and may God be with you till we meet again.
KO, NyaaNyaa, Martin, Joe, Ayeyidwom and Nii.
Now the laborer’s task is o’er;
Now the battle day is past;
Now upon the farther shore
Lands the voyager at last.
Earth to earth, and dust to dust,
Calmly now the words we say;
Left behind, we wait in trust
Till the Resurrection Day
Father in They gracious keeping
Leave we now Thy servant, sleeping.
(John Ellerton, 1870).
We cannot recount the history of girls’ education by the Basel/Scottish Missionaries in the Gold Coast and exclude your name. Your name, Patience Lomotey appears on the 1939 list of pioneer pupils of the Osu Presbyterian Girls’ School. Your position of being one of the 21 pioneer girls was beyond pride but included dedication and preserving the heritage of Osu Girls’ School. Your desire to see that Girls’ School would always rise to the occasion and meet the purpose for which it was established caused you to draw close to most of the head teachers. You were in close contact with them and always opened your doors to give godly counsel whenever they called upon you. You often checked up on them even till your last days on earth. You also never missed the opportunity to share your faith with the Old Girls you came into contact with.
We can confidently say that OPOGA is your brain child. You ensured that the Association always had life. You were our first President and your sacrifice and dedication to the Association laid the foundation for generations. You always believed in celebrating our heritage. You encouraged us to always celebrate the milestones we had chalked. Your conversations with some of us always centered on the growth and continuity of OPOGA. You even went the extra mile to compose songs to celebrate anniversaries. One we will always remember was the clarion call to all old girls to come on board:
Ani jeee Girls School otee lo?
Kɛji jɛmɛ otee lɛ
No lɛ tee shi no oba
Ni oba fata wɔ he ni wɔ kɛ ye nɛkɛ gbijurɔ nɛɛ
You also added another:
What can you do for Osu Girls’ School?
What can you do for your alma mater?
Do it now, Do it now, Do it now before it is too late.
You kept records of budgets of previously celebrated anniversaries, documents and paraphernalia. You donated your anniversary cloths to be distributed to members who did not have. You advocated for the celebration of the 85th anniversary of the Osu Presbyterian Girls’ School. We had plans for OPOGA and plans are underway for the celebration. We were hopeful you would be around during the celebration. However, we stand here today bidding you Farewell, loved one because you have been called by God. He welcomes you back home. We mourn but not without hope (PHB 805). We will keep the OPOGA alive. The legacy must continue. You have run the race and handed the baton over. You will remain forever etched in our hearts and minds.
Yaaba jogbaŋŋ mibi, ŋmɛnɛ atsɛ o.
Yaaba jogbaŋŋ mibi, ŋmɛnɛ atsɛ o.
Ŋmɛnɛ wɔkɛ o ŋ’ye shɛɛ; ŋmɛnɛ atsɛ o.
Bo lɛ obatsɛɛɛ kwraa, Nyɔŋmɔ pɛ le.
Yaaye ej’rɔ mibi, ŋmɛnɛ atsɛ o.
Yaaye ejrɔ mibi, ŋmɛnɛ atsɛ o. (PHB 807)
Patience Akweley Lomotey, OPOGA Mrs. Akunor, wɔ yɛ wɔ Nuntsɔ lɛ kpɔkɔiaŋ.
“All the Saints shall be with God; in Him they have treasure great. They shall be with Christ their Lord; with Him they shall always live. (PH 787 vs. 1)
Mrs. Patience Akunor joined the Christ Congregation, Darkuman in 1989 when she came to reside at Darkuman at the time when Rev. D. O. Boapeah was the Minister-in-Charge.
As an educationalist and a retired teacher, she was a disciplinarian. She was elected to the then Session in 1994 during the tenure and pastoralship under Rev. Owusu Amoah. During that time, Session meetings were held in the evenings and they used to close late.
One of such meetings, she could not go home as it was too late and so slept in the church premises till day break, that event made the old lady talked bitterly about the Session closing late in the night.
Mama Patience was a Bible reader, both Ga and Twi and also a Lay Preacher. As a staunch member of the Women’s Fellowship, she contributed a lot to the growth of the Fellowship.
As a member of the Help Age Ghana Association under Christian Council, she introduced the Help Age Ghana into the church and every year brought the aged together at the church, both church members and non-church members around Darkuman, threw a party for them and gifts will be given to them.
She contributed a lot to the growth of Christ Congregation, Darkuman.
When the church was but a wooden structure, dreaming of the day it would stand tall in brick and mortar, Mama Akunor was there. Her contributions were not just monetary; they were pieces of her heart, sown into the very foundation of the building. Today, as the church stands proud, it is a monument to her generosity and vision.
In this tribute to Mama Akunor by Christ Congregation, Darkuman, we celebrate a life well-lived, a faith well-kept, and a love well-given. Her memory will forever be cherished, and her impact will continue to be felt.
May her soul rest in perfect peace, and may her story continue to be told, so that others may find the courage to live as selflessly and serve as wholeheartedly as she did. Amen!
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness which the Lord, the righteous judge will give on that day.
2 Timothy 4:7
Today, we gather to honor and celebrate the life of a remarkable woman whose unwavering faith and boundless compassion touched the lives of all who knew her. Mama Patience joined the Redemption Congregation on 16th April, 2010, when she relocated to Tema to live with her daughter who worships with us.
Mama Patience was outspoken and was always ready to share her thoughts especially during Ga Bible studies to the admiration of all. This attribute made her absence from Bible studies very obvious anytime she was unable to attend church service.
In her journey through life, Mama Patience exemplified what it means to live with purpose and grace. Her dedication to the church and her tireless efforts to better the lives of others stand as a testament to her deep faith and selflessness. Through her actions and her spirit, she demonstrated the true essence of Christian love and service.
She was regular and punctual, a disciplinarian who loved to sing and for that matter enjoyed teaching songs to the congregation. With her thin voice, you could hear her sing in between the sermon on Sundays and this touched many lives. We recall when the Preacher would have to pause so she could finish singing and then the sermon would continue.
As time went on she began to grow weaker and so was unable to join us on Sundays for service. Notwithstanding, leadership of the church always visited, prayed with her and served her communion every month at home, something she cherished so much and was always ready to meet the Minister and Presbyters to receive communion. She would ask how activities in church were faring after asking that her favorite hymn be sang for her.
As we reflect on her life, let us remember not just the deeds she accomplished but the profound faith that drove her to serve the Lord and others with such joy and commitment. Her legacy is not only in the tangible contributions she made but also in the inspiration she leaves behind for us all to follow.
Her demise, even though painful, is considered the will of God at His own time; and must be accepted with thanks. We take consolation in the Sure Hope of the Resurrection when the great trumpet shall sound for the elect to be caught up with the Saviour.
Indeed, Redemption Congregation will miss you Mama.
May the good Lord keep you safe.
in loving memory of
Mrs. Patience Akweley Akunor
A good teacher is like a candle.
It consumes itself to light the way for others.
You were not old; you were a classic!
Mrs. Patience Akweley Akunor (nee Lomotey) would be dearly missed for her dedication to our Noble fraternity. We, the Alumni, would always look back with nostalgia for her zeal, chattiness, sense of humor, implementable ideas, and eagerness to pay her dues even at her old age.
Madam Patience was of the 1945-year group of the Agogo Presbyterian Women’s Teacher Training College. After graduation, she went to the United Kingdom for further studies on scholarship and returned to Agogo as a Physical Education Specialist. She recounted the many achievements during her stay in Edinburgh and Agogo, and a memorable decision, worth mentioning, was her refusal to wear western dresses. She always wore Kaba and Slit which fitted her well, despite others’ opinions. Well groomed, slim, and elegant, Ms. Lomotey met and got married to the late Mr .S T. Akunor, a teacher at the Akropong Presbyterian Training College, assumed his name, and relocated to continue teaching at Akropong.
Professionally, Mrs. Akunor was a real lady in every sense, a classic, who played her role with respect, dignity, and discipline. She always dressed meticulously in the cleanest, well-ironed white top and shorts and could be spotted from afar. She wore her hair in a special way that suited her body frame and walking strides perfectly. Though, very strict because of the Basel discipline inherent in the Agogo training and traditions, she commanded utmost respect and committed to excellence and achievement. She was selfless and worked assiduously to the admiration of her seniors, colleagues, students, juniors, and everyone that crossed her social and professional paths.
Auntie Akweley was a blessing to the Association and those who came in direct contact with her. Her musical talent was unparalleled, and we pray her almost twenty Ga compositions will not be lost in time. Indeed, she had weathered the storm, discovered hidden treasures by unearthing new layers of life, and nurtured her children into responsible and revered persons. She witnessed the successes and failures of her students and grew from strength to strength each passing year. As a nonagenarian, the Alumni looked forward to counting her among the very few centenarians in the world, but wishes are not horses. Yet, “for through wisdom her days were many, and many years were added to her life” [Proverbs 9: 11]. Life was a miracle and every breath she took was a gift from God.
The Alumni were effected deeply by her unwavering support and would forever cherish the quality of moments shared. We enjoyed her heartfelt conversation, infectious laughter, and trusted companionship. We were amazed when on her sick bed, she said, she was still waiting for the direction to do the will of God because she was not yet finished with her mission on earth. We are saddened by her glorious and peaceful home call but would always celebrate the significance of the 98 years experiences with us. We know she would ARISE and SHINE again at the resurrection because “He who dwells in the shelter of the most high will abide in the shadow of the Almighty [Psalms 91: 1].
May the angels lead you, Auntie Akweley, into paradise. Rest peacefully, Senior Noble. Amen!
I met Mrs. Patience Akunor when I joined RCS in 1978. She did not serve continuously but taught for a number of years, left and later taught the third stream of Class 6 and later Class 4. She was hardworking, disciplined, meticulous and organized throughout her service as a teacher.
As a teacher with special training in Physical Education, she used to take her class out for physical education where she taught her learners games that helped to exercise the body.
I remember Mrs. Akunor especially when she used to take the newly appointed teachers through handwriting lessons in the Marion Richardson writing which she was very good at. Her neatness in writing and classroom work showed in her learners’ output.
Mrs Akunor’s passion of promoting the Marion Richardson handwriting led to the donation of plaques jointly sponsored by Mrs Gladys Osae Addo, the first Ghanaian Headmistress and Mrs Patience Akunor to be presented as awards for learners who excelled in handwriting.
Above all, her Godly life exhibited in her patience in handling learners and display of love wherever she was. Even in her old age, she could mention the names and ask about the welfare of teachers she worked with any time we met. The qualities displayed in her work, helped some of us, the young teachers to learn and stay in the profession.
All her endeavours paid off because her own children who were learners at Ridge Church School made it to the top in all their academic and professional pursuits. She lived a life of dedicated and devoted service to God.
Farewell Mrs Akunor. God be with you till we meet again. May our Good Lord grant you eternal rest.
Having known Mrs. Patience Akunor in the past 40 years as a co-worker in the Lord’s vineyard, I couldn’t resist the temptation of putting in a special tribute to honor her courage, love, perseverance and resilience in the direst moments of adversity.
MRS. PATIENCE AKUNOR WHO SPEARHEADED ESTABLISHMENT OF ACM DAY CARE CENTER AT AMEDZOFE WAS A GALLANT SOLDIER OF CHRIST — SHE KEPT FIGHTING VALIANTLY FOR THE KINGDOM EVEN WHEN SHE BECAME TOTALLY BLIND!
As Executive Assistant to ACM President, Bishop Seth Kofi Anyomi, I had the responsibility of overseeing the operations of all departments of the ministry. My late wife, Mrs. Ann Cherie Abena Ameh (nee Akagbor) also served as the Secretary/Admin Assistant, Paul Osafo-Affum was Administrative Officer, while Cephas Narh was the Projects Director.
Mrs. Akunor, who is a twin from Ada-Foah, is popularly known in family circles and among friends as “Auntie Akweley” and only recently celebrated her 98th birthday (that is on JULY 8th, 2024). Her twin brother is called Akwettey.
The 98-year-old Retired Teacher worked as Director of ACM DAY CARE CENTER PROJECTS, to encapsulate the vision of ACM as a child-focused organization with maximum attention on character formation.
A common feature that characterizes the friendship and mutual relationship between Dr. Florence Yeboah (aka Mama Florence), Bishop Seth Kofi Anyomi, the late Rev. Dr. Gladys Osae-Addo, and the late Mrs. Patience Akunor is that they were all at one time or the other diligent teachers at the reputable Ridge Church School, Accra, where Mrs. Osae-Addo served for many years as the Headmistress.
Speaking with me in an interview for publication in my Inspirational Testimony Book, “I Refuse To Die”, Mrs. Akunor revealed that she and her late husband, Mr. Samuel Tettey Akunor, a Senior Lecturer in Teaching Methods at Akropong Teachers’ Training College, had their wedding on September 13, 1952.
She added that they were the First Couple to have their wedding officiated in that Assembly Hall, under the eagle eyes of Rev. Mallock of Scotland, who was the then Principal of Akropong College.
Mrs. Patience Akunor also disclosed to me that though Dr. Gladys Osae-Addo was one year ahead of her at AGOGO Teachers’ Training College, she was her best friend and that she (Gladys) joyfully agreed to serve as her Maid of Honor during their wedding at Akropong. According to Mrs. Akunor, she taught for TEN (10) years at the Akropong Training College Practice School after their wedding.
All these and more on the effective Christian ministry and impact of Dr. Florence Yeboah, Rev. Dr. Gladys Osae-Addo, Rev. Prof. Steve Adei, Rev. Prof. Seth Ayettey, Bishop Seth Kofi Anyomi, Rev. Dr. Joyce R. Aryee, Mrs. Patience Akweley Akunor, Mrs. Woenyae Akotia (nee Agbesi), Mrs. Abigail Dedume Ameh, Mrs. Comfort Kumatse (nee Gelitsa), Mr. E. K. Datsa (HM at SOGASCO, PRESEC, etc) Mr. Nicholas Y. Tettey Ameh, Mr. E. N. K. Ameh, Madam Dora Abuyaxoe Ameh, Mrs. Ann Cherie Abena Ameh (nee Akagbor), Etc, Etc, Etc
TEMPUS FUGIT INDEED OO!!
TIME FLIES INDEED OO!!
Our deepest condolences to all affected persons.
Ms. Abigail Dedume, who together with the late Mrs. Woenyae Akotia pioneered the Africa Christian Mission (ACM) Day Care Center at Amedzofe under the supervision of the Mrs. Akunor, is still in charge of running the center.
SCRIPTURE REFERENCES
“Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints.”
(Psalm 116: 15)
“In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.”
( 1Thessalonians 5: 18)
Glory Hallelujah, Amen
A HYMN OF FAITH IN HONOR OF MRS. PATIENCE AKWELEY AKUNOR —-
Will your anchor hold in the storms of life,
When the clouds unfold their wings of strife?
When the strong tides lift, and the cables strain,
Will your anchor drift or firm remain?
We have an anchor that
keeps the soul
Steadfast and sure while the billows roll,
Fastened to the Rock which cannot move,
Grounded firm and deep in the Saviour’s love.
MRS. PATIENCE AKWELEY AKUNOR,
Rest In Perfect Peace
God be with you till we meet again!