Estate surveyor Osita Okoli has lost his mother Lady Catherine Okoli (nee Ezeyim).
Mrs Okoli died on Thursday, April 27, 2023, at the age of 79.
A statement issued on Monday and jointly signed by Ven. (Arc.) Chuks Okoli and Osita confirmed that the funeral rites for their mother will hold on Friday and Saturday, June 23 and 24, 2023 respectively, beginning with a service of songs at St. Augustine’s Anglican Church, Federal Housing Estate, Trans-Nkisi, Onitsha on June 23 followed by the funeral service on June 24 at the Basilica of St. Andrew’s, Odoakpu, Onitsha, Anambra State.
Osita, describing his late mother, stated that she was a diligent and industrious woman known in Ukpor, Nnobi, Onitsha and beyond, for her resilience and sharp business acumen. The real estate captain described his late mother as a capable moulder of persons and one with a lovable personality.
Osita continued: “Mama was my very first teacher in every sense. She was strict but fair, a disciplinarian who at the same time allowed children to express themselves within clearly defined moral boundaries. She bore her pains with equanimity. She concealed her tears but shared her smiles. She served God, as did our Late Father who served as Pastors Warden at St. Andrew’s Church, Onitsha, for 22 years. Mama sacrificed and exerted herself to the very limits of her endowment, for all her children. She shared a common passion with our Late Father, for availing us the best education attainable, as she was worried that her children could only be secure if they are educated.
“Her beauty, poise and carriage were renowned. She was a torch-bearer, a trailblazer, who set the standards for her generation. She was as gorgeous as she was bold. She dared where her peers demurred, leaving towering and indelible legacies. Her faith in God was strong and because of her belief in the Almighty, she was dogged and able to face her trials and tribulations with fortitude. She always walked tall, showing love to all.”
Bidding farewell to his mother, Osita said: “Mama, we wish we had more time with you on this side of eternity but are consoled by the sweet memories of your beautiful soul and the wonderful times we shared. Rest in peace as you live forever in our hearts. Thank you for your invaluable lessons of life. Jee nke oma, Agbala galasia; Woman of substance, pioneer and a legend in her own right.”
