Eminent Nigerians mostly legal luminaries, academics, and traditional rulers converged on Akungba Akoko in Ondo State recently to bid farewell to a prominent community leader and matriarch of the Ologunorisa family, Mrs. Grace Bamidele Ologunorisa (nee Fapohunda) who passed on July 17, 2025 at the age of 95.
At the outing service held for the deceased on Friday, October 24, 2025 at the Christ Apostolic Church, Akunmi Quarters, Akungba Akoko, it was a harvest of tributes to her life and legacies, reflecting the positive impact she made on her family, community and beyond.
The Regional Pastor of the Christ Apostolic Church in Ondo State, G. O. Obiwale, representing the General Evangelist at the funeralservice, spoke on the advantages of having Jesus Christ in one’s life. He eulogised the deceased as a devout Christian and committed member of the church. ‘Madam Ologunorisa’s life was a testament to the transformative power of faith and the impact it can have on families and communities,’ the cleric remarked.
He underscored the significance of faith in navigating life’s journey and celebrated the deceased’s commitment to her Christian faith. Madam Ologunorisa is survived by her children, including Mr. Samuel Ologunorisa (SAN);Vice-Chancellor of the Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology (OAUSTECH), Okitipupa, Ondo State, Prof. Temi Ologunorisa; and Mr. Ebenezer Ologunorisa.
Family members who paid emotional tributes to their beloved mother described her as a pillar of strength, love, and faith, who inculcated Godly values and the virtue of hard work in her children.
“You have always been an important part of my entire life and you will remain in my heart for all eternity. You were not just an amazing mother but an incredible one indeed. Your love, wisdom, and strength will continue to guide me and your memory forever in my heart,” Ebenezer said.
Prof. Temi eulogized his mother, saying “I can never forget your mentorship. You were protective, responsive, lovely, caring, available, and never gave up on us even in the face of uncertainty and challenges of life. You taught us the virtues of honesty, integrity, hard work, teamwork, and family values. As a child, you taught us not to eat and drink outside the home; this habit I cultivated even till today. You were an embodiment of a virtuous woman, and the Ruth of Ologunorisa’s dynasty. You stood by us and were committed to your family till death. We will really miss you, ‘Mama Banola’ as we fondly called you.”
Samuel said: “Her life taught us the paradoxes of strength and softness, of courage tempered by greatness. She faced hardship with a patient, unyielding faith, and she celebrated triumphs with a laughter that could mend a weary heart. Her words, though few, were weighty with wisdom: a reminder that mercy is a daily discipline, that gratitude is a quiet revolution, that love, when given freely, repeats itself in generations. I offer you this vow: I will strive to live as you lived – with grace under pressure, generosity without measure, and a heart that loves without condition. Your memory is a compass, guiding us toward kindness, dignity, and enduring faith.”
The event was also graced by politicians, family members, friends, well wishers and OAUSTECH staff and students, among others, while the ace musician, Yinka Ayefele thrilled the audience to delight.
