Gmamz was my grandmother, mother, father, friend, confidant, all in one. She was a God-fearing woman. I remember seeing her pray every morning and night without missing a day, even as she advanced in years. One of my favourite childhood memories is going to a church, “Oke-Isegun” with her. I remember being scared when I heard the sound of the saxophone at the church but this made me curious and later inspired me to become a saxophonist. Another memory I have is of her hosting Friday house fellowships. Those were always exciting as a child as she distributed snacks and drinks afterwards. This made me pay attention to every detail. Ultimately, these acts drew me closer to God.
Gmamz was kind-hearted. She was a giver. On almost all my birthdays, she distributed “Ewa-Ibeji” to everyone at school including the staff and students. She never missed a year when I was growing up, no matter how stressful it became. She was kind to everyone no matter who they were: young, old, rich or poor. She treated the maintenance staff the same way she treated directors. She treated everyone equally. For me, as a young child, I understood her kindness as her giving me 10 Naira every day to buy biscuits. Now that I think about it, that could have added up pretty quickly but she never got tired of my incessant requests.
Gmamz was my friend and confidant. I was known as “Ore Grandma” because from a very young age, I could confide in her and she always kept to her word no matter who was involved. She would advise me on how to handle complex problems that are beyond my years. She talked to me like a friend. She never looked down on me because I was young. She imparted wisdom to me from a very young age. She was there when I had a bad dream, when I fell sick, when I was sad, she was always there for me. One of my favourite childhood memories is sleeping in her room every night and using her bathroom every morning even though I had mine. Gmamz made me feel a sense of security, every time I was with her or in her space.
Gmamz is a legend, even in death. I have built so many memories with her, and it’s simply impossible to share all of it in a few words. I lived with Gmamz for 16 years until I relocated to the U.S., and even then, once I arrived on holidays, she was already waiting at home. I miss her dearly and I wish I could see her again but I take solace in the fact that she served the Lord and she affected so many lives positively.
Rest with God, Gmamz. I will never forget you. I will never forget everything you taught me, and I promise to make you proud. Till we meet again.
Josephine Brown Okudoh