My Granma it’s 3 years today like yesterday missing you so much but as they say “Those we love never truly leave us. There are things that death cannot touch”
RIP Granma
Bisi Coker

This year would have been your 100th year on earth, but you're in a much better place now. Still missing you loads.....

Mummy mummy … how time flies !

Can’t believe it’s 3 years already since you transited !!
Your enduring legacy lives on in all the lives you touched whilst you were here with us Ma.
We miss you always.
We love you forever.
Christmas without your gifts of love and prayers are not the same anymore…

I’m happy that your warmth and wisdom touched the lives of everyone around you, leaving an enduring legacy of love and cherished memories. May your spirit continue to inspire and bring comfort during this difficult time. I love and miss you grandma

Granma

Just like yesterday missed your wisdom and your kindness but I know you are with the lord sleep well beloved Grandma ♥️♥️♥️

Today marks two years you left us. Each day I’m grateful to have had you as a grandmother. I miss you everyday but I know you’re always with us. May your soul continue to rest in peace.

Two years since you departed to be with our Lord. You are fondly missed and will forever be in our hearts.

I miss you ❤️

Mummy, as we called her, was the epitome of 'Abiyamo rere, Iya dada'. 45 Fallsbrook was synonymous with Mummy. There is no way you would think of 45 Fallsbrook and not remember Mummy or vice versa.  Mummy you were a rare GEM, you were caring, loving, compassionate and above all you were a vessel in God's hand. You opened your door, arms, heart to all and gave to everyone, even to strangers. Only God knows how many found solace in your open arms. Indeed the world had lost a Saint and heaven gained one. Thank you mummy and we thank God for his gift of you to us all. 2 Timothy 4:7-8 says it all "you fought the good fight, you finished the race, you kept the faith. Now there is in store for you the crown of righteousness. Rest in the bosom of HE that loves you most till we meet to part no more. Adieu!

Great grandma was a very special woman who would fill the room with a certain warmth that couldn’t be replicated. Her stories were always interesting and the fact she lived for that long is an achievement. She will be very missed by me and many others and will be forever in our hearts
Fifunmi Coker

Good nite mummy. I knew mummy in 1977 through a friend of mine. I stayed with mummy at 45 Fallsbrook back in the same year. Ever since that has been holiday home. Mummy quickly took me as one of hers. We became a family. Mummy you will surely be missed, your generosity and hospitality. Whenever mummy is in London she doesn’t miss my birthday. Words are not enough to describe you. May you continue to rest in the Lord. RIP.

Thank you for your care, concern and everything that you have done for me over the years. I will be forever grateful and thankful that I was able to know my great-grandmother.

Rest in Peace

Our Dear Mama
Fondly called mama upstairs as my Sibling Gbenga has pointed out. I always wandered why we called he that. I guess as kids you just followed orders from your parents! Maybe because there stairs in the house? Who knows, but it was a term of endearment The Aiyegbusi Clan took pride in saying. I mean where do i even start. Mama has been a permanent lovely force to be reckon with since I was a wee baby. So many lovely memories of Mama. From when I used to go and braid my hair at Mamas house, I recall the braids were oh so tight I had a permanent smile. But the styles were always rocking and I always went back for more. Or is the delicious Efo Stews that Mama would cook, the pepper was on fire your behind would almost explode! But the Stew was soooooo Sweeeet, I would gobble it up like a hungry lion, going back for more and more. What about the Funky parties Mama would have, Mama knew how to party! As a kid I would go with my mum, and just hear the sweet musical sounds playing with all the adults getting down. And the sweet puff puff floating around in abundance. Or The Church Services at St James I would often be dragged to by my beloved mum. I used to look foward to the lovely Tea and biscuits after service. Mama was always there always. Mama was an avid story Teller she used to tell her folk stories that always kept you engaged and entertained. When I look back on the life of this Phenomenon Woman I am so proud and grateful I was privileged to stand in her presence. Mama was steep in her faith hat got her through numerous challenges, but she always stood strong and firm. Mama was your poster Lady for black don't crack not looking a day over 60, with such beauty and grace. I feel like I'm still in shock or denial. One thing I do know is that Mama is looking down on all of us Smiling, watching, Praying. I will miss you Mama. Lots of Love From Deola Aiyegbusi

This from Gbenga Aiyegbusi

Mama Upstairs is what we My sister and I used to call Mama because they lived upstairs while my parents lived Downstairs. 45 Fallsbrook road SW London is an address I can never forget it is etched in my Brain.
We loved going to their house back then in London because we could play and play . They had a older Children Seyi and Auntie Funmi . Seyi used to play all the records I could not play at home like Bob Marley and the wailers. It was at their house my love for reggae music started. I watched the World cup in 1974 and 1978 in their house with Daddy upstairs and the family . Those were the days!!!! When I got older, sometimes when I was in trouble I would run and hide in their house till it finally caught up with me . We used loved eating Mama's food even when it had a lot of pepper. Seyi taught me a lot of things he was my excuse for getting out of my house .
When I left London with my Dad in 1980 . I did not get to see Mama and her family that often again and things changed to never be the same .
The last time I physically saw Mama was at my Mothers 70th birthday in 2007. The last time I spoke to Mama was September 2019 and she told me she was born a few years after the Spanish Flu which was a worldwide pandemic . Mama has seen a lot in her life . Very strong lady. She will always be a found memory of my Childhood.

Rest in peace Mama and I want to thank you for the love and friendship you and My Mother had . It is really sad that you have left but God Knows best .
Love from Gbenga Deola and Femi Aiyegbusi. Femi was born much later and did get to enjoy Mama like we did.

Tribute to Mama Abigal Sofowote

I came to know Mama through my father Reverend Daniel Olugbile in February 1967. He knew Mama in Shagamu Nigeria. My Father came to London for a short course in the Anglican communication he was posted to Saint James's church in Mitcham Lane SW London. There he met Mama after the service they invited him to their house in fallsBrook Rd during their discussion my father told them that we were looking for a flat. Mama and the husband then told my father that they had a vacant flat. I was expecting my second child then. We moved into the flat in April 1967. They took us as their children. Mama helped take care of My little one and I had my second child, since then we have been together as a family. My children loved Mama so much that when I cooked my food, they will not eat my food they will ask me to take them upstairs to Mama and eat her food. Mama also puts lots of pepper in the Stew but they still preferred her food to mine. They used to call her Mama upstairs because she was upstairs and we were downstairs.

Another significant reason why my Mama and I were so close, was the advice she gave about marriage life to be able to keep my family together. Even when we moved back to Nigeria and my husband was working in N.I.P.S.S. Kuru in Plateau state Mama came to Nigeria in 1985 to visit us there for a few days. This goes to show you how much we had a bond together and we always talked on the phone regularly. I am so glad I was able to see her in January 2017 when she wanted me to move to Lagos. I was able to speak to her early January this year; I couldn't believe that it would be our last conversation.

We give glory to God for her life she lived a good life may the good Lord fill the vacuum she left in the family. We wish peace and comfort to Mama’s family. Mama rest in the bosom of your master till we meet there and part no more

Sun Re Mama Dada

From Mama Gbenga Aiyegbusi and Family

We had a wonderful grandmother,
One who never really grew old;
Her smile was made of sunshine,
And her heart was solid gold;
Her eyes were as bright as shining stars,
And in her cheeks fair roses you see.
We had a wonderful grandmother,
And that’s the way it will always be.
But take heed, because
She’s still keeping an eye on all of us,
So let’s make sure
She will like what she sees.

When I read this poem, i felt that it captured my perception of you. Someone who will never grow old and will ALWAYS be there- because you always have been and sometimes we took that for granted. Your kind forgiving heart of gold is unmatched, you were always so patient and loving towards us. Thank you for covering us with prayers and your continual encouragement through the years, it meant so much to us. We still have a wonderful grandmother because though you are not present in the flesh, you live on as queen of our hearts. In the short time that your great grand children have known you, you made a big impression on their lives! I’m so glad that they got a chance to see how loving and fun you really are. To a truly amazing and strong woman, our grandmother, we are saddened by your departure but comforted because we know due to your faithfulness, you have walked into glory. You have fought a good fight, You have finished your course, You kept the faith! And there is laid up for you a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, has given you ! Amen

We love you Grandma

She's an icon of my life, a reference as my grandmother's sister, with memories from Lagos to London and back to Lagos spanning decades.
Diamonds are forever, like the memories of lovely icons in our lives.
Sleep well my dear grand Aunty.
You're missed.

Mummy Fallsbrook or Mummy London as she later became was a constant presence in our lives for many years. A great friend and sister to my mother. They had a close bond and supported each other. I remember on numerous occasions, my mother would call Mummy when there was a pressing or challenging issue and they would setup a prayer and fasting regime to address the matter. Mummy London was always there for my family and we all loved her dearly. She was blessed with a generous heart and had so many adopted children; spread across the world, Perhaps Mummy Inter-Continental would have been a better title for her. I often wondered how one heart could contain and share so much love. 
Mummy will be greatly missed for her wisdom, humour and exemplary faith. Rest in perfect peace Ma, You race has been run and it was true, steadfast and bountiful. Till we meet again.


Femi,Fiona,Anthony & Katrina Nzegwu

Dear Abigail

The members of St James Church Older Persons Group [called the Friendship Circle] wanted to share that they were inspired by your strong faith, especially giving you God’s strength in times of great suffering which you have experienced in your life. You were fun to be with on our social occasions during outings and when we met in the Church Centre for talks, quizzes and games and indeed for our Christmas Lunches. And you grew old as we all must with the wisdom of much grace in handling illness. We will miss you as and when we can meet together once more post Covid-19. It was a privilege to have known you. We will see you once more in Heaven.

Yours

John Farebrother
On behalf of all the members of St James [West Streatham] Friendship Circle

Dearest Abigail
On behalf of your friends from St James Tuesday Communion fellowship, we want to say a few words to honour your memory and express our sadness at your departing of this life. But of course, we know full well it's only for a while! We'll be seeing you again before too long! And how can we forget the passion and forcefulness of your faith and your extraordinary love for the Lord and love of prayer and bible reading and being able to enjoy fellowship with us and with all your church family here in Furzedown. What a wonderful example of faithful endurance and hope you have given to us and the unfading beauty of a gentle and loving spirit that has inspired and encouraged so many of us. May God continue to bless you richly Abigail as you wait for him in the presence of Christ. And may we who remain here, continue to love God and to grow in prayer and thanksgiving and in the delight and pleasure of his service, just as you yourself have so faithfully shown us how to do. And so we say 'thank you' and send you on your way with all our love and blessings. 

UNFORGETTABLE!
THAT IS WHO YOU ARE
GRANDMA LIKE NO OTHER
A WOMAN LIKE MAN
YOU'LL FOREVER BE MISSED

The very fact that I could have a beautiful relationship with my great grandmother is a testament to how good God is. I am truly grateful for the time I had with her, her wise insights, her wonderful testimonies and the personalised song she sung to me every time we spoke on the phone were all times I will never forget. As a seasoned woman of God, her words came with weight and truth, anyone who heard her speak can attest to this. My great grandmother was a true role model in the ways that she allowed her faith to guide her life, being both stoic and inspiring, yet having a good sense of humour and being joyous in the moment. There is so much I would've loved to say to her, to ask her about the long life full of many stories and experiences, for her unique perspectives on the world around us were always so interesting. While we all wished that she could have stayed with us for a little longer, our lives have been greatly impacted by hers, I miss you Great Grandma, I love you, we thank God for your life.

Grandma, you were very special, very strong and independent, full of kindness and love for everyone.

You will be deeply missed by me, say hello to my dad when you see him...

Love and rest in peace. Margaret A

Mum
People are given by God to make an impact on others one way or another. You, mum, were given to us all who knew you, and for me, you were and still are that special gift indeed. You were special in every way. Mum, you “unlocked” me with love, giving me the confidence to fly and to be me. You have left me with sweet memories that put a smile on my face and comforts me at this time. Memories of how you taught me, gentle and patient, you were a natural born teacher. Memories of heart-to-heart talks, our regular shopping together and the pleasant surprises.....the list goes on. Many things about you were simple but profound. You were so mentally sharp to the very end, you never cease to amaze me. You meant so much to me as mother, friend, confidant and much more. Words cannot express all that you were here on earth. What you left with me continues to grow strong and it is all out of love.

God so loved that He gave...., He gave Jesus, a gift to whoever will receive Him, so we all can have eternal life. He gave you also, a gift to the world and an epistle of love and you did express His love.

Mum, you never failed in your commitment towards me and I am forever grateful to you. I miss you so much but look forward to seeing you again. With love.
Yinka

Mama, a mother to all, was a God-fearing remarkable woman; one who learned water-colour painting at the young age of 87.

Mama was sharp, intelligent, with an amazing memory that could recall names, places and dates even in her nineties. Though Mama was quite petite, she was a formidable woman and would tell it as she saw it.

It’s really hard to forget someone who gave so much love, care, and inspiration to many. Thank you for your love and devotion to my late mother. Your spirit lives on ma, rest in eternal peace.

My Mama Abigail Sofowote...has gone!

Ever since I met my Mama Sofowote exactly 31 years ago (Jan - Feb 1990) at the Christening /dedication ceremony of Oluwatumininu (‘Tumi ) Siwoku, in London, my mama Sofowote (65 years old then) never changed physically at all!

She remained the same intelligent, dutiful, loyal, benevolent, loving, caring, virtuous, generous, selfless, God-fearing, prayerful, great source of blessing, best friend, sweet mother, awesome grandmother, adorable great-grandmother and Mother of all Mothers...
She did not waiver a second in her faith and trust in the Lord despite all the challenges she went through since I met her. My Mama was a fighter, a soldier and an overcomer.
I was fortunate that Mama met my biological mother during one of Mama’s trips to Nigeria. Mama came back to the UK and advised me to go home regularly to visit my parents. I heeded Mama’s advice in February 1997 and visited my parents in Nigeria. Didn’t realise that would be the last time I would see my parents as they both passed away 6 months after my visit. They both died 17 days apart. What a time!!! Thanks to Mama Sofowote’s advice, otherwise, I would have been inconsolable!
Fast forward, Mama Sofowote and myself became closer with the passage of time and I’m sure there was no single month that we didn’t communicate in the last 20 years even when we were on different continents. That’s how close we were.
Mama introduced me to her biological children as their younger brother (from another mother) . Mama made sure she attended all our significant milestone celebrations. Mama never failed to send Christmas gifts to my children every year. Mama was a generous giver. She was one of a kind.
In her twilight years, Mama would call me and consult me for counsel on issues bothering her. Mama would call on FaceTime without wearing her glasses. She would read her messages without her glasses. How blessed can one be!!
My Mama Sofowote recorded a glowing 6 minutes video where she dressed up specially to sing, pray and wish me a wonderful 60th birthday celebration in January 2021 just exactly 10 days before her transition to heaven...it’s as if she waited for my birthday. I will forever cherish that video recording.
Mama had always told me that, when she’s ready to depart from this world, it would be accompanied by praise and worship until she transits to the great beyond. This was exactly how it happened. Mama was blessed with the gift of prophecy.
I could go on and on ...
I learnt a lot from Mama Sofowote. I will surely miss my Mama in a million. 
My family will miss her too.
We always cherished her visits and telephone calls.

Mama has gone back to her maker. Her mantra was “Do good always”. She practiced what she preached until her last moments...

I pray for strength for all of us that she left behind in this sinful world.

May mama’s soul find peace and continue joyful celebrations in heaven.

Mama Sofowote’s life is worthy of emulation and great celebration! A beautiful soul has left us.

Peace ✌️

Your son,

Olufolahan Ajanlekoko

We leave a light on.

Even in these times of uncertainty losing a dear one is not easy. My only condolence is that your soul has now found rest. You are still in our thoughts and prayers as we recall memories of our past time's with you.
I remember when my younger sisters first met, they commented, that you were the sharpest dressed granny they'd ever met.
Later through our chats and debates I came to know of your dress making skills and the love you had in experimenting with fashions when you were younger.
I will miss our debates, we were both so opinionated, I will miss you.
Rest in peace, and know that though you are not here, your light remains.

Dear Abigail,
It was such a joy and privilege to know you since I came to St James Church. Small in stature, but a giant in the Lord, you always inspired me with your steadfast faith, toughened in the furnace of suffering, and your unconquerable joy. I will miss you, but I rejoice that you are now with your beloved Father in heaven, or 'Daddy' as you loved to call him. I look forward to being with you again, to share some eternal jolof rice, pounded yam and okra! May you rest in peace and rise in glory m y dear sister.

Tribute to an inestimable jewel a one in a million grand mum a philanthropist God fearing mother who loves and care for everyone u taught me a lot DAT am enjoying today d last time we have a jist together on d 9th of January 2021 grandma u said when its time to go home u wants all your children And grand children to sing songs of pray to see u off to gate of heaven and I thank God we did on d 31of January 2021 when you said goodbye to everyone how I wish I could turn back the hands of the clock for You to remain with us grandma hummmmn miss u so much grandma we love u but god loves most rest in perfect peace grandma,Roluke

Great Grandma, I will miss you.

I will miss seeing your smile, I will miss hearing your voice, I will miss hearing you sing my name on the phone, I will miss you.

When I am complimented on my artistic abilities I am reminded of you because my talent doesn't simply lie within myself but it came from you. Your artwork expressed who you were, you created out of the beauty within you.

Thank you for leaving such an impact on us and though I will miss you I find comfort in knowing you are at peace in a place of no pain but only joy.

My Auntie My Confidant And My Best Friend

Words are inadequate to express my appreciation of your love and kindness to me and my family.

My Auntie is ever ever loving, always giving, and she is a  good helper. She is always patient and above all she is a lover of God; who believes in God's words.

Our relationship started back in 1958 and I have enjoyed and appreciated every day of this relationship. When I got married in London, herself and her husband represented my parents.

I have always tapped into her wealth of knowledge, wisdom and experiences and I have had no regret .

She is a very enduring and loving woman who has always been guided and motivated by the word of God .

In December 2019 during a visit to see her, as I was about to leave she burst into tears  and I asked her why the tears and she said -: Shall we see again?  I replied and said yes because the bible says "a child among them is a hundred years old” and you are not a hundred years old yet. It was quite an emotional experience but I kept in touch with her regularly.

At the start of January she was the first to call me and we spoke at length with each other and we also spoke in early February.

Adieu my loving Auntie
May your soul rest in perfect peace.

Florence Ojo

I first met our mother, grandmother and great grandmother in April 1961, at Oke-Arin in Lagos. She later travelled to the UK to join her husband, late Papa Sofowote of blessed memory. in 1962.

On my arrival in London in March 1963, I forged a bond of love with Mummy. She was an embodiment of love, and she became my mother, mentor and confidant. This union continued between us until her passing to glory on January 31, 2021.
She was such a loving mother, a virtuous woman, a peaceful and humble personality, always at peace, and a channel of blessings to many persons who had contact with her.

As a Christian, she displayed all the virtues of a true believer, and was a light to the World, a salt in the lives of many people.
Now that she has fought the good fight of faith, and gallantly finished her race, and kept the faith, it is certain that she has laid out for herself a crown of righteousness, as she continues to rest on the bosom of her Lord.

Mummy London, you will forever be in our hearts, as we rejoice with the family for a life worthy of celebration.
May your gentle soul rest in perfect peace.
J. Olagoke  Ojo.

"Want not, waste not"

That's probably one of the favourite sayings from Grandmother that always sticks in my mind and I've always tried to stay true to that.

"Everything in moderation" is another.

It's hard to imagine we won't get to hear her say Sho, Sho any more.. or sing Oluwakemi over and over again.

It's a true reminder that nothing lasts forever.

Thank you for the wise words and good discipline. Above all, we'll remember you for being that larger than life tie that binds us all together.

Until we meet again and listen to captivating stories of the Wolf and others, Sleep well Grandma.

My dearest Grandma,You may have passed on, but your memories would always live on within us. Thank you for your sacrifices, your care and concern, your love and everything that you have done for me. Wherever you are, I know you are in a much better place. I will be forever grateful and thankful that you are my 'Grandmother'.

Grandma, from my beginning until your end,
You were by my side, my first best friend.
Your love and admiration were sincere.
Not a day goes by that I don’t think of you.
You taught me more than I ever knew.
You gave me reason to continue the fight,
Saying a better day comes after the night.

I remember how we were planning my proposal and engagement few days before you passed away. God knows best and I am forever grateful for your love,
And I know you’re looking down from above.
I miss you everyday but i know we will see again.
Rest in Peace Grandma I love and miss you so much.. Until we see each other again.

Words would fail me to describe how pleasant you were. A hope to disheartened and despondent, a giver to the needy and all that comes your way. You usually add sweetness to bitter weary soul and burden bearer to those under heavy load. Your care and love is beyond doubt. You are such a lovely mother and grandmother. Maami, like my mum usually call you, it looks too soon for you to be gone. Though you will be missed but you are forever in our heart. Sleep on my sweet and lovely grandma.

Granny as you are fondly called, you were kind hearted ❤ who embraced anyone who came your way. I got to know you through my sister Adebisi Coker, thank you for the love you showed her and us her family. I believe you have gone to join the saints. Rest in peace. DCP yetunde longe

"Great grandma was very kind. She would always sing us these songs whenever we saw or called her and we would dance as well. It always put a smile on our faces. We remember that she was a great artist too and she showed us some of her work when we once went to visit her in London.Any time we left her house she would always give us money.She also used to tell us to work hard in school.We miss her greatly but we know she is now resting safely in heaven."
From Maxine and Toyin Coker❤❤

Grandma! Gone too soon! I will forever remember you ma. A kind hearted woman, God fearing, intelligent, neat and clean mother. Am lion Bolajoko Adeshina Ibrahim your daughter. Sleep well! Sleep on. Loads of love Grandma!

The matriach of our family - Gone too soon. Yes my grandmother left too soon, she was a young 96 year old delectable lady. An extraordinary woman. Full of life, humour, grace, kindness, generousity, gentleness and above all Godly. I am still missing her, can't believe she is not coming over when this dreadful coronavirus is over. We were hoping she would receive the customary 100 years birthday card from the Queen.
Who says African women are not leaders, educated, not equal to African men and visionary. All you have to do is take a look at my grandma and many more alike. We all miss her and love her dearly. A mother to many. She was a strong confident woman, a leader, an educator, an artist extraordinaire (her paintings proudly adorns the walls of our house).
They don't make them like you anymore. Till we all meet to depart no more......

My Grandma, I will miss you, such a gentle but firm, loving woman I will miss your stories your wisdom, you never forgot anything even as old as you were, you are so accommodating I remember all our shopping trips. I know I could do no wrong in your eyes because you always called me “OMOMIDADA” I use to boast I am your only granddaughter. You left without collecting our 100th birthday card from the Queen that me and you planned but God knows best sleep well my beloved Granny
Yours
Bisi❤️❤️

Our dear great grandma, I remembered the period Emmanuella Sofowote( great grand daughter) was given birth to, you said "Infact omo daadaa ni, she's fair to have arrived on a date between Afolabi's birthday Aug19 and great grandma's Aug29, ko fe da ja le"
And you named her Ebunoluwa. You were such a loving grand mother to me. Me, Afolabi and your great grand children will miss u so much. Love from Kemi Sofowote & family

God knows the reason why he took you home Grandma you are precious to us who are we to question God . I always wanted you to get to 100yrs before you go your words for me the day I brought my husband to you was that it shall be well with us that though things may be tight for us but we shall scape through I wish you where still around to see ur great grandchild your love for us is unquestionable and we are greatful to God for every moment you spent with us I pray you rest in the blossom of the lord till we meet you again ma su re oooooo

My dear grandma, my love.. words can’t express how much I miss u.I remember anytime I come to your room to greet you and you ask me to sit by your side just to know how your grand daughter is doing and also advice me the best way you could, you wanted to know what I was up to and if I would need any help..oh grandma u were a darling and a mother anyone could ask for..I can never forget all the love you showed me and all the help..I remember your smiles and it’s painful to know I won’t be seeing them again but I know u are in a better place...
Miss you grandma

dear great grandma we love you and me and janais and my whole famliy will miss you very very much.
love from sanna an love from janais your great grand daughters