Bayo was born on Tuesday 8th June 1971 to Mr and Mrs Adegbite in Hackney, London. Like the Bayo we all know: as far back as 1971 was breaking grounds as being one of the heaviest babies born. He weighed a hefty 9lb 8oz.
Bayo was the youngest of 3 children Adetola and Abiodun were his elder sisters and he was the only son. He always had a way of reminding us that he was the man of the house.
Bayo spent most of his life in Hackney. He went to primary school and then continued to Hackney Downs Secondary School. He proceeded to further education in College of North East London & Southgate Technical College.
During his years in School, he was involved in Football and loved his favourite team “Tottenham Hotspurs”. Not sure why really, but might be because his immediate sister Abi loved Arsenal. He loved cars and really thought he knew everything about cars, so we all allowed him that privilege and he was always the first person we talked to if we had an issue with our cars. His love for cars, gadgets took him into his profession in IT. He was articulate and could talk you into believing white was black.
Bayo was well known and loved. You couldn’t step out in Hackney with Bayo without him waving to someone he knew. To his friends his nickname was Shifty (God knows why) at home he was Bayo, Adebayo when he was being naughty or Couz, short form for cousin, He always assumed he was “Mr Street wise” until a family visit to Nigeria taught him otherwise. His brand new video camera was stolen right out of his pocket when he was very alert, he was shocked for a few days after that and realised there are various degrees of being street wise.
Family Christmas was always fun with Bayo around; because there is always one person you are all waiting for. Last year Christmas, with everyone at the table and dinner getting cold, he strolled in like we were not all waiting for him, with a smile and loud greetings of “Merry Christmas” everyone. Bayo, I’m not sure how we will cope this Christmas, with you not around the table. Most especially your nephews -
Like all of us, Bayo had his fair share of ups & down. He was never going to allow the past determine his future. He was conquering and winning. He was never negative about life. He was always optimistic about his future. Death took you too soon Cous!!
To God be the glory, Bayo made it to heaven. You may all have questions about this, but if you had seen Bayo recently or had the privileged of talking to him, you will understand how painful this death is to all of us, most especially his mum. He gave his life to Christ, he was renewed, a new creature, a new man.
Bayo said recently, when I am in Church, I dance and rejoice in the house of God. When I was in the world, I raved, now I am dancing for Jesus and I really do not care who is looking at me. He was at peace with himself. He had experienced the love of Christ.
On the 19th of May Bayo had this to say
'' God has written every page of my life in His book.
Good news: My book ends in victory!
It is so remarkable that we are able to encounter the redemption of our Father making all things new (in some cases even better than new).
In the end, we come out in total victory!
Bayo – son, brother, cousin, uncle, friend. We love you so much but God loves you more. Till we meet again.
