Happy birthday darling…I walked today and thought of our walks in different places throughout our time together…we shared and talked about so many things…our dreams…our babies…gosh darling…they are adults now…❤️…I am grateful…as we often said…we move…and so I do and will…rest on  my love …

Yesterday was tough but I tried. You are still loved and the best BOSS by far.

Ben, we miss you dearly. Rest well in the Lord brother.

It will never be okay to not remember you. That’s just how it will be for you and I. I was darling and you were darling. I am so grateful to have come your way and you to have come to mine.

The glorious memories will live on in the lives of our children, family and friends we engaged with.

Today, I think of you now and only remember the wonderful things we explored together. The rest is chaff as we used to say.

I am well and I am good. I still miss you. I will love you forever. Thank you for loving me. Thank you for seeing me. Thank you for trusting me.

Always and forever ❤️❤️❤️

Abba’s Whispers
This time today…I sat on my bed pondering over the past couple of weeks…managing care for my beloved…sorting out our children’s activities…balancing the act of normalising the work day…I let out a sigh of gratitude…thanking Abba for his support in getting us all back to SA…

Thoughts of next steps…questions brimming to the surface…how will you lead the school moving forward…how will you support hubby in hospital…how will you watch over the children and manage expectations…I would be lying if I did not say I felt overwhelmed…a what if things fall apart…what if I am not able to cope with everything…what if I let everyone down…challenging questions then…and still

8 years on…I am still haunted by that day’s events…our final conversation…our goodbye not realising it will be our last…8 years on…this day brought forth so many blessed gifts…our children are grown…working and thriving…family and friends who came to our rescue…my transition from SA…taking steps towards rebuilding myself…rediscovering what makes me tick…exploring new opportunities…willing to rediscover love again…its time…whoosh…I’ve said it…placing you still and always in a corner of my heart…baby steps…

Thank you my love for your love...your faith in us…allowed us to transcend so many moments…highs and lows…this has been the hardest…yet we have moved on in grace…with Abba’s blessings…rest on my darling…knowing you are forever loved…#october #abbaswhispers

In loving memory of my dear brother-in-law,

Today, we gather not in sorrow, but in celebration of a life well-lived. It is with heavy hearts, yet grateful spirits, that we pay tribute to a man who made a lasting impact on all of us. Our dear brother-in-law, friend, and confidant has left us, but his memory will forever shine brightly in our hearts. Grace to Grace..

He was a pillar of strength, a source of unwavering support, and a constant reminder of the beauty of family ties. From the moment he became a part of our lives, he embraced us with open arms, welcoming us into his world with a warm smile and a kind heart. His remarkable ability to make everyone feel loved and valued was a testament to the extraordinary person he was.

As a brother-in-law, he was a source of wisdom, guidance, and laughter. Whether it was sharing a friendly banter, offering sage advice during challenging times, or simply being a listening ear when needed, he fulfilled his role with grace and integrity. His enduring commitment to family was an inspiration to us all, reminding us of the importance of standing by each other through thick and thin.

He had a passion for life that was truly infectious. He taught us to embrace each day with enthusiasm, to savor the simple pleasures, and to never underestimate the power of a hearty laugh. His presence brought a sense of joy and camaraderie wherever he went, leaving behind a trail of cherished memories that we will hold dear.

In his journey, he faced both triumphs and trials, but he always persevered with grace and resilience. He exemplified the ideals of honor, kindness, and compassion, leaving an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy will continue to inspire us to be better versions of ourselves, to cherish our loved ones, and to live life with a full and open heart.

Though he may no longer be with us in the physical sense, his spirit remains alive in the laughter we share, the stories we tell, and the love we hold for one another. In our hearts, he lives on as a beloved brother-in-law, an extraordinary friend, and an irreplaceable part of our family. He is With Christ Jesus!!

Today, as we say our goodbyes, we do so with gratitude for having had the honor of knowing him and for the profound impact he had on our lives. Farewell, dear brother-in-law. Your memory will forever be a source of inspiration and comfort to us all.

Rest in peace, and may your soul find eternal serenity.

In Jesus Christ Name Amen!!

Paa Koi, my great friend and buddy, I can't believe it's 7 years already. I know you are resting peacefully and looking down with that smile of yours. You are gone and not forgotten and will always be close to us.

Another year to remind me of how I lost someone as cool and collected like you. I know you thought this to shall pass but my dear Sir,you were wrong.

I know you are at peace with the Lord and I am glad but I wish, truly wish you were here and now. I might not see you now but your memories, I hold so dearly and I will forever do.

Rest well Sir.❤️

Daddy,

Wow. Hi. I didn't expect to end up here, but here I am.

Reading the impact and memory you've left in people's lives, such that year after year they remember you, on the day you passed and on your birthday, they come here to this home to write to you, to write to your memory.

I used to think this website was rather cheesy. I'm glad Mum doesn't always care what we think! Now I'm reading through it and my heart is full to burst.

My tears haven't fallen yet. But my heart is crying in a soothing way. I know you are with me but I struggle to feel you. And yet I have begun to feel all the ways in which I am like you recently.

Maybe since around the time I went back to Ghana, and went to your grave by myself, on your birthday. What a beautiful and bittersweet memory. You were there. and I don't know.

This is just to say you were so wonderful. And no matter how I may try, or ponder I could not, ever, have asked for a better father.

Thank you for everything. Every single thing. For teaching, and loving, and laughing that deep-belly laugh of yours.

Thank you for teaching us discipline and compassion and mercy. Thank you for doing all you needed to do for us, and so many people. Thank you that you lived a full life of love, and for being so so so patient. If you were not as patient as you were we literally would not be here.

Thank you.

I really never told you "thank you" enough. When you left I still wasn't old enough to realise how grateful I should be.

But, thank you. Thank you. Thank you. THANK you. Thank you.

It took some time but, success means something different to me now.

I get why you lived the way you did a little bit more now.

Please continue to rest well and enjoy paradise.

Love,
your darling darling troublesome girl

I can’t believe it’s six years already since you left us bitterly in this world. You will forever be missed. We talk about you all the time Posh and I. Gosh we miss you. Continue being an Angel in heaven watching over us and your loved ones your children and Wife. I miss you in my life. I have a son now who is also November born. 3 days after yours. He’s called Ethan. How I wish you were still here guiding and advising me. Miss you loads my unofficial big brother. God continue to keep you in his bosom. You are dearly loved and sincerely missed.

Happy Birthday Sir!

My darling, everyone seemed to think of you today. That song from Michael Jackson- Ben- resonated with us all day… goes to say we think of you often but on this special day of yours, it’s extra special…

So happy birthday to you…hope you get some cake now Jules is there. She always loved cake ❤️❤️❤️
We are fine, I promise!!! We miss you but know you are in such an awesome place now…
I love you always and forever… Me❤️

You have been on my mind all this week and now I realise why… continue to rest in peace dear cousin

May your gentle and humane spirit forever rest in peace. Though we did not have that much contact with each other, I will always remember you with affection. My condolences to Uzo and your children.

I can't believe its been 5 years...... I still remember this day like yesterday. Though our time was short, it was impactful and I thank you for being the greatest, coolest and funniest Boss, friend and Father. I love you dearly. Rest well Sir and forever in my heart.

Love always!

It's been 4 years since you bade good bye. Feels like yesterday. You are sorely missed, brother. Rest well.

Wow

Paa Kwei four (4) years already?

I bet as you did on earth, so it continues as you are now absent in the body & present with the Lord,

Basically smiling or even laughing seeing what we are all doing

Quietly nudging us along the difficult paths, as we kind of stop wondering what that feeling is.... "Did someone just touch me?" we wonder.

You left a HUGE void for Uzo and the children. Yet by His good grace, they are continuing to make a great & positive impact in society!

Till we meet again,

May you keep RIPP

Fondly remembered still

Susan Efua Naana Sackey

Happy birthday my darling man. Today, I went out to the movies with a few girlfriends and we watched a hilarious movie. At a point of the movie, I felt your presence as if letting me know, you were there observing me and helping me to know it was okay. I think of you all the time and so glad to have met you and come to know you intimately. I miss you so much but I know you are well in a much better place than here. I know when the time is right, we will see each other again. You are always, always in my heart. Forever missed ❤️. I will always love you my sweet and gentle man. My Paa Koi.

Paa Koi, we miss you dearly. May your Gentle & Loving Soul continue to Rest In Perfect Peace. ✝️

My sweet man, You are forever missed and ever will be. Know that we think of you every day and remember you fondly in so many memories we shared together.
My pain is like no other but i know you rest in peace and our Lord has taken care of Maame Efua and Papa Kwame and myself in your absence. I miss you so much. I love you. My best friend, my gentle soul, mine. Uzo

"Hello Uzo, On 16th October 2017, your husband who was October baby like myself would have celebrated his 50th birthday in pomp and pageantry but for the cruel hands of death. Nevertheless, He is resting peacefully in the bossom of our Lord Jesus Christ.We shall see him again on the resurrection morning. May the grace of God continue to be sufficient to you as you and the children look unto Him. It is well with you all.

Hi darling! I'm sitting here listening to Boyz 2 Men End of the Road and it seems so appropriate. We came to the end of the road abruptly on this day. No warning! No sign! Just a hard stop!

I remember us listening to this song so long ago and trying to imagine how this would ever be possible for us to have an end of the road moment. We made all kinds of promises to each other then. Looking into each other's eyes, we would sing the chorus. Okay, you would croak it and I would sing it passionately to you.

You will forever be missed.

Everyday that passes, I miss you more. Your dedication to work and influence, over my life is very deep. You left at a time when I was getting to know you more and understand the TRUE definition of SUCCESS.

Your simple nature made work more easy and fun.I can't think of a better way to have started my carrier, but to start with your DEEP insight and values.

I cant ever stop talking about you, the values which you impacted into my life is uncountable, trust is a always a key to success but respect for each other makes room for wisdom to be impacted and gotten. I am better in the use of Microsoft Excel today, all because of you.

Uncle Ben I love you and would always have you at heart.

Never forgotten..... Ben was a loving husband and father he was caring and a man that was humble and intelligent. He will always remain in our memories. We will love you always from the Wilsons.

Hello Uzo, On 16th October your husband who was October baby like myself would have celebrated his 50th birthday in pomp and pageantry but for the cruel hands of death. Nevertheless, He is resting peacefully in the bossom of our Lord Jesus Christ. May the grace of God continue to be sufficient to you as you and the children look unto Him. It is well with you all.

Dear Uzo,
As you and your children remember the 49th Anniversary of Ben, I pray that God would continue to direct your steps and lead you on the paths to accomplish HIS purpose. It is well with all of you. May Ben continue to rest peacefully in the bosom of the Lord, Jesus Christ. His legacy lives on!!!!!

Ben, you have left a powerful legacy of love. May God grant you eternal rest, and peace to your family and loved ones.

You always had a quiet, measured, smiling and peaceful presence. You and Uzo made a great couple, and wonderful family.

I wish I got to know you better. Though I met you in England, we both lived in Cape Coast as children at the same time and had friends in common. RIP

Dear Uzo, just read about the loss of your husband, Ben Paa Koi Agyare-Kumi. May his soul rest in peace having done his race as a Christian, be rest assured he has eternal life.
I pray for you Uzo, that God would through His Spirit comfort you and bear you in His wings. May He bridge for you, all gaps created by Ben's exit. It is well with you and your children! Remember Jesus loves you!

'Cousin Ben', that was the affectionate title we had for you at Legon.

The dear Lord says 'For my thoughts are not your thoughts,
nor are your ways my ways,” Isaiah 55:8. He is the only one who knows why he has decided call you into his bosom at this time although we here are heart broken and shocked.

'Damirifa due, damirifa due' our friend.

Uzo, may God send the comforter to be with you and the children.

Ben, I only found out you were gone today. I hadn't seen you since we left Legon. I can't believe it. You were such a kind, sweet, lovely person. You were such a gentlemen. I am gutted. Why is it the Good ones always leave us suddenly and in the prime of their lives. Rest in Perfect peace my Brother.

A man was standing on a beach one day looking out to sea when he saw a ship appear on the horizon. As the ship got closer he noticed it was the most beautiful work of engineering he had ever seen. He couldn’t take his eyes of the ship as it glided over the water. It was the most amazing day in in his life. As the ship began to disappear over the horizon the man felt sadness that he would never see the ship again.

Ben and I met 37 years ago at Adisadel College, Cape Coast where we began our secondary school education. We were in the same house and soon became friends. Some of the senior boys in the house thought we were brothers (probably because of our chubby features) and that brotherhood made us the butt of quite a few jokes, especially if you were nicknamed Fattal and Alafat. On some occasions, we were punished or made to scrub the toppos (toilets, for those who didn’t go to the great school) just because we were brothers.

However, no matter how hard they tried, the brotherhood stayed strong and was made stronger a few weeks into our first term when the whole school went on a strike. Around midnight the school bell started tolling and we were all woken up from our sleep and ordered to run towards the town centre. As I made my way down dark, unfamiliar streets, I kept wondering where I was and what fate awaited me that night. Suddenly I heard my name and a voice saying to me “my house is round the corner. Come with me.” Though I couldn't see the person, I recognised the familiar voice. It was Ben.

His mum welcomed me and a couple of other boys to her home that night and kept us safe from any harm. But the best was yet to come! The next morning Ben's mum baked us the hottest, sweetest bread I had ever tasted! (I still remember that lovely smell wafting into the room). From that day I became part of the family and visited his home several more times. There is a joke that all Fanti's are related. Believe it or not it is true because many years after we left school I found out that we were related to Uncle Tommy.

We had some great times throughout our seven year stay in secondary school and to top it all, we became room mates in sixth form. My very first ever room mate!!! Ben was such a gentleman, always well dressed and calm in everything he did. Most importantly, he never allowed anything to distract him from the reason why he was in school which was to study, pass his exams so he could have a very good future. He enjoyed reading very much and while some of us were happy to use four and five letter words in our daily conversations and school work, Ben was way ahead of us using nine letter words like ‘carbuncle’.
We spent a year at Legon until we met again in London a few years later, this time with our wives and kids. Together with a few other santaclausians we formed Hilltop club and visited each other regularly, sharing so many hours of laughter and listening to jazz and hiplife. Ben eventually moved to Ghana and though I didn’t see him so regularly anymore, I knew he was going about his business as he had always done - quietly, diligently and with perfection. Nothing could go wrong for this fine young man.

So it came as a huge shock to hear Ben was unwell. How could this happen to Ben of all people? Ben knew he had a fight on his hands but was determined to get back on his feet. And he did, even taking selfies for all to see. When I spoke to him a few weeks ago my eyes filled up with tears not because of the sadness of his situation, but because of the joy of hearing his voice again. It took me back to that dark night in Cape Coast when he called by name and kept me safe. I said to him, "my brother, you will be fine and we will once again enjoy some hot bread like we did so many years ago!!

Unfortunately, we have to say good bye to a very dear brother, friend and a true gentleman. As we do so, I pray that the Almighty Father will comfort Ben’s family and all his friends and be our refuge and strength through this difficult period.

Ben Paa Koi 'Alafat' 'Carbuncles' Agyare-Kumi, you have left a huge hole in our lives never to be filled again. As you disappear from our horizon this week we will forever cherish all the memories, joy, happiness and special moments we shared together all those years. We may be saying goodbye to you, but I know that the Almighty Father will be welcoming you to his side and into his loving arms. May your soul rest in peace and may the Almighty Father grant you eternal rest.

Abide with me: fast falls the eventide;
the darkness deepens; Lord, with me abide.
When other helpers fail and comforts flee,
Help of the helpless, O abide with me.

Swift to its close ebbs out life's little day;
earth's joys grow dim, its glories pass away.
Change and decay in all around I see.
O Lord who changes not, abide with me.

I need your presence every passing hour.
What but your grace can foil the tempter's power?
Who like yourself my guide and strength can be?
Through cloud and sunshine, O abide with me.

I fear no foe with you at hand to bless,
though ills have weight, and tears their bitterness.
Where is death's sting? Where, grave, your victory?
I triumph still, if you abide with me.

Hold now your Word before my closing eyes.
Shine through the gloom and point me to the skies.
Heaven's morning breaks and earth's vain shadows flee;
in life, in death, O Lord, abide with me.

So young! Our hearts are filled with sorrow and grief, as you were taken from us at an inopportune time. We thought you were going to recover, but only God knows why he took you from this earth. You are now with God and surrounded by His angels.

I remember seeing you in Cape Coast when you were five years old, you looked very beautiful and handsome. I wish I had a cell phone at that time to have captured that moment.

All these years we have been separated by continents. We wish we could have had more time together. It was wonderful when you, Uzo, Maame and Kwame came to the United States a few years ago to visit and I am glad we spent that time together.  You were funny and such a warm hearted soul. We will miss you dearly as a brother, father and uncle. May your soul rest in peace. 
Your sister, Doris Kumi and your niece Yasmeen Imoro

Tribute to the Late Mr. Ben Agyare-Kumi

We always say that death is inevitable, and its hour cannot be forecast. But most of the time when we say this, we imagine that hour as placed in an obscure and distant future. Often, we say this, thinking that time is not even a possibility in the community of our utterance.

Sometimes it never occurs to us that death has any connection with the day already begun or that death could arrive this same morning; this morning which appears so naïve and innocent to have anything to do with something ‘as black as death’.

Imagine therefore, the shock that engulfed the entire TIS community when we learned of the passing of one of our own. So many names we have learned to call Ben; a parent; a stakeholder; a mentor, but the one that we at TIS are most proud to have earned the right to use; ‘Friend’.

We remember him as being a kind and loving person who was as beautiful on the inside as he was on the out. Issues about Tema International School were of deep concern to him not only because he was a parent, or because his wife was the Principal, but because he believed in the fact that the world had to be made better for the future generation, and he believed that he owed a quota towards the realization of the TIS dream.

This is why family, friends, TIS and the world haven’t only lost a father, a husband, a relative, and a friend but also, a great man, and a visionary. A huge void has been created in our hearts by his passing, but we find consolation in our belief that he is with our maker.

Ben Agyare-Kumi, rest in eternal peace, and we thank you for the opportunity to be part of your life’s journey
.
“Praise we the glorious names we know, and they whose names have perished, Lost, in the haze of long ago, in silent love be cherished."
(TIS Hymn, composer - W. G. Tarrant)

Tema International School

To Ben, a true gentleman by Nana Ama Amamoo

We needed a new chairperson for the charity I worked for, and one of the trustees recommended that I should get in touch with Uzo. I had had a brief working relationship with her and liked what I saw. So I called to arrange to meet up with her, and in her warm and practical way, invited me to her home. She and Ben lived in East London then. I made my way on the Underground and found both of them at home. Uzo introduced me to Ben who was in the kitchen feeding Maame Efua, gave me a drink, handed me a couple of photo albums and went upstairs to change from her work clothes.

In this day of selfies and other instant photographs on social media, the courtesy of giving a visitor a photo album seems rather quaint. But I leafed eagerly through one album which contained pictures of their wedding. Uzo came down just as I opened the first page of another album. I saw pictures of two young women I knew. ‘ That’s Kate Frimpong and her sister Alberta!’ I exclaimed. ‘Oh you know them? They are Ben’s sisters’, she said nonchalantly.
Know them? Alberta and I sat at the same desk in Primary 4, and Kate was a year ahead of me in secondary school. 

Kate and I were members of that ‘hallowed’ group at St Monica’s – school athletes – we even had a separate dining table and diet. We were also in the same house and often in the same dormitory too. Alberta was quiet and reserved and Kate was a live-wire. A natural comedian and the instigator of many pranks against seniors and teachers alike. I counted both of them among people I loved greatly. So finding out that Ben was their brother, made me more determined to get Uzo to be our new chairperson. I did not know about him because he was far younger than us, and in heady teenage years, baby brothers don’t count.

Fortunately for me Uzo agreed to be chair of The African Families Foundation. Thus began a very important relationship for the three of us, with Uzo being the linchpin. I certainly could not tell where she began and Ben ended. She read and learned his lesson notes in order to help him in his Accountancy course! Literally! Often doing the spreadsheets and other tasks to help him complete assignments. And he, in his quiet efficient way, was the one who ensured that her Eurostar uniform was spick and span for work; and the one who understood and correctly translated Maame Efua’s childish gibberish into meaning for her mother; the one who always managed to poke fun at the absurd in a fraught situation. I could always count on him to strip away unnecessary verbiage and cut to the chase on draft fundraising proposals that I sought his opinion about.

I remember him chuckling and gently ribbing Uzo about the craving for McDonald’s ice-cream she developed when she was pregnant with Ozor; and yet went out of his way to keep her constantly supplied. He was magnificent in his unshakeable support when Uzo lost her beloved father. Ben was a gentle man, always smiling and few of words, but whose actions never left you in doubt that Uzo and his children meant the whole world to him. Ben to me was synonymously a devoted husband and father. That is how I will always remember Ben, pointing out the absurd, delivered in his inimitable dry sense of humour, and always smiling in that efficient, ‘you-can-rely-on-me’ way. He was Uzo’s rock. He was a good friend and the world is a poorer place for his departure. Go well, good man and take your rest in the bosom of our Lord. – Nana Ama Amamoo

My Dear Uzo,

My heart is broken by you loss. My thoughts and prayers goes out to you Maame and Papa. May God's love strengthen you and your family during this time of sorrow.

It was daring the 1990's when I first met Uzo and immediately bonded in sisterly friendship, whereupon I was introduced to her husband to be: a softly spoken gentle of a gentleman, Ben. He always displayed an air of calmness when I visited, at every visit the home was filled with God's love spiritual warmth and comfort.

Casting my mind back, I recall there such a heightened sense of excitement on the eve of the Wedding - the house was filled with the last minute wedding checks and adornments. It was during the evening when myself, Uzo and the late M. Okeke (May God rest her soul as well) gathered in the kitchen to make some delicate complimentary "Moin moin." food for the wedding festivity late into the night. Ben, with tasks completed, sat in the lounge and lightly watched a video. Ben had the nature of calm serenity, and every so often he would calmly soothed his tired 'wife to be' with anecdotal phrases which made Uzo chuff with laughter and form light banter between them.

Death leaves a heartache that no one can heal, but love Uzo leaves a memory that no one can steal.

Cherish the memories you created with Ben, keep the memory of his spirit alive with the memories you created as a family. I will miss our international chats, bens soft voice and sound advise he shared about our sisterly friendship Uzo. Ben May you rest in peace.

"Blessed are they who mourn for they shall be comforted" Matthew 5:4 esv

Love from your former Maid of Honour

TRIBUTE TO BEN AGYARE- KUMI (BAK) 1967 – 2015
from Adisadel College year group 1983

On the 16th of October 2015, after much anticipated hope of your speedy recovery, sadly, we became aware of some rather disheartening news that Ben, our colleague and youngest member of our ‘83 year group, had departed to the other world after a short illness.
Ben joined our ‘83 squad on the mighty Adisadel hill in the academic year of 1978. Despite being the youngest member of our group, such was the poise of the gentleman, that he exhibited the calm matured mannerisms of a composed gentleman.
Ben accomplished his academic work with excellence. After form 5 and was called back to our Alma Mater to pursue his sixth form.
After a successful sixth form, Ben pursued his tertiary education at the University of Ghana, Legon, reading Politics with History, and completing University in 1989.
Ben worked at a series of organisations, namely, Cancer Research UK as a management accountant, Crown Cans PLC, as Finance Manager, Gold Coast Securities Ltd (Compliance & Operations Management ) & finally, as Deputy Managing Director at TG Automobile Ghana Ltd.
Fresh, & shocked, with the untimely pain of sorrow, we began the following day, to pour out grief & tributes of sporadic spontaneity, in memory of our fallen beloved brother.
A number of descriptive words do resonate in our memory of Ben Agyare-Kumi, (BAK). Words, such as: unassuming, hardworking, gentlemanly, warm-spirited, persevering, poised, diplomatic, decent, diligent, sacrificial, steadfast, serene, calm and caring.

Nothing explains our heart-felt pain for the loss of our brother, than the direct quotes of some of our mates below:

Philip Tagoe: Work for a cause, not for applause. ... Live life to express, not to impress... Don't strive to make your presence noticed, just make your absence felt. Nothing in nature lives for itself. Rivers don't drink their own water; Trees don't eat their own fruits; The sun doesn't shine for itself; Flowers don't spread fragrance for themselves. Even Jesus didn't sacrifice for himself. So living for others is a rule of nature. We were all born to help each other. No matter what difficulty you find yourself in, still do good for others. One greatest mistake any man can make is to lean on the understanding of men. Keep trusting the Lord, for he is good! BAK you truly lived for others. RIP

Midas Amoah: BAK was cast and moulded in diplomacy, a perfect example of a gentleman, cool though, but had an eye for success, a good classmate indeed.

George Amissah (Shabba): Death has once again taken a gem from us. Much as we know we're only here for a while, I still can't believe BAK is gone forever from us.
Goodnight BAK.! 
We loved thee well but Jesus loves thee best.

Ronnie Ani-Adjei: The pain of the cold dish of sadness, served us yesterday, has left us in bewilderment & despair; but despite your untimely departure, we rest in the resolve that God knows best. Gentle, diplomatic, decent, Ben; I pray that you are in a place of respite & relief in the creator's bosom. Fare thee well Ben Agyare-Kumi!

Kwasi Boateng: I spent my last two years in Adisco with Agyare-Kumi in 4A and 4B, he was a very warm spirited and hardworking guy. He never gave up on his school work. My wife and kids know him by name, because I always cite him as an example of what hard work and diligence can make of a man. I'll miss him greatly. Agyare-Kumi may not know this ... he really made an impact on me with his perseverance and calm approach to life.
Gone too soon bro!

Douglas Assan: Calmness of mind is one of the beautiful jewels of wisdom. A man becomes calm, in the measure he understands himself, and having learned to govern himself, knows how to adapt himself to others.
A calm man is always loved and revered. He is like a shade-giving tree in a thirsty land - a sheltering rock in a storm. Calmness is power. Benjamin Agyare-Kumi, you exhibited that spirit of calmness and you always remained poised, steadfast and serene. May your calm soul, rest in peace, my brother!

Frank Imbrah: A crab was once running on sea shore and was admiring its beautiful footprints. Suddenly, a huge wave splashed and washed away the footprints. The crab said to the wave, ‘I considered you as one of my best friends, then what made you do this?’ The wave replied, ‘A fisherman was following your footprint, that’s why I cleared it off...’ "Relationships mean caring beyond imagination". Value them & don't ever doubt the intentions. Be Your Brother's Keeper
Never hurt those who value you in life. 

Henry Boogie Nelson: Hmmmm!!
And so Death has gently taken Ben's hand, and as lovers have walked the unlit lane to rest in a warm burrow below his native land, far away from life's madness till he is ready to be born again: Fare thee well Ben! May your soul rest in perfect peace till we meet again!

Nii Debrah: When your name is mentioned amongst your peers or brothers as we 83 Santas call ourselves, Benjamin Agyare-Kumi the Gentleman, what a way to have lived your life. Rest in peace my brother you will be missed.


‘Due! due! Damrifa due!’ ‘Abranti3 BAK’ ‘Due n3 amanehunu !’ Rest in Perfect Peace!!


Fondly remembered, by ALL your year group mates, Adisadel 83.

Ben, my good friend

Dear Uzo,

I cannot find words to describe how disheartened Lillian & I feel about this sad news of losing Ben to God. Only he (The Lord) knows best.

Our prayers and thoughts are with you and the kids. The good Lord will see you through this and strengthen you.

I am filled with tears but I take comfort knowing that my brother is gone to a good place and his pain is over.

Ben was such a gentle giant, we will miss him dearly.

Uzo, God Bless you and the kids!!! You can always count on our support.

Kweku Ricketts-Hagan, MP
Deputy Minister of Trade & Industry
Ghana

Dear Uzo, my heartfelt sympathy, praying for God to surround you and your family with his loving arms as you walk this valley of the shadow of death. May you know His comfort, and receive courage for each day. With love, Alison

Ohh what a life. Paa Koi, as we affectionately knew him in Aboom, Cape Coast, was the quintessential gentleman … an embodiment of the often used phrase.. cool, calm and collected. Not enough adjectives can describe such a kindly spirit. Both in school and out of school, all who came in contact with Paa Koi came away with something more than they had before. In school, he was a hardworking student with exemplary mannerisms. At home, as we knew him, Paa Koi was an ardent reader who had a ravenous appetite for reading novels and watching movies. In those days in Ghana, while on vacation from Adisco, Indian and Chinese movies were our staple, at the well known Topp Yard cinema hall and Dans Paradise. Being in our late teens with no money, of course, it was easier to ask for pocket money for movies than for nightclubs. As others did the well known Big Apple night club scenes, we would do Topp Yard, see the latest Bollywood movies. What was more interesting was, after watching movies, we would spend hours discussing and critiquing the plot, cast and scenes and making comparisons of the delivery of the lines.
It was a shock when we heard that you took ill. When our mates visited you at your bedside and I was able to speak to you on the phone… you said. “I will be back …..firing on all cylinders” … I guess a rendition of the well-known Arnold Schwarzenegger catch phrase in the 1984 movie “The Terminator”. Since then we talked a couple of times, last was on Monday October 12th, when we talked about everything, from global geo-politics, economics, business ideas and retirement plans, whether it was going to be Costa Rica or Winneba. Unbeknownst to us, our Creator had the ultimate retirement plan. On Thursday, October 15th, I missed a call from you, and called back but could not get you. I then called our other close friend, Bartels Kodwo, who said he was on the phone with you and you were in very high spirits. We then spent 30 minutes reminiscing about the halcyon days of youth… the three of us… our adventures and misadventures in the streets of Cape Coast. On the morning of Friday 16 October, at 7:18 Central Standard Time (USA), I received the text…”George, pls call”. I did and Uzo broke the news that our brother and friend Paa Koi had left us. What a SHOCK!
I have come to terms with the fact that we are all workers in the Lord’s vineyard.. and as our Master and Employer, only the Lord Almighty decides when our work is done and calls us home to rest eternally. It has been a privilege and an honor to have known Paa Koi, certainly, this angel has returned to his rightful place, and his memory will forever be with us. Until we meet again, Paa Koi, Da Yie. You have earned your rest. Da Yie, me nua, da yie.

Darling Uzo. I am totally devastated for you and your family. I'm saddened that I never met Ben but reading through the tributes it is clear how loved he was and how much he loved you and the kids. I know God will give you the strength to carry on knowing we are all here for you. Ben is looking down on you my dear. May he rest in peace. X

My heart broke in sadness Paa Koi, as I got a reminder on Facebook to wish you a Happy Birthday today. Little did we know that the last time we spent at the Thompson triple family Birthday at Cape Coast was the last time we would all be together. You were my calm and collected cousin full of wisdom and always had the best advice for a teenage girl when we were in high school. Your life ended too soon but God needed you to continue to do great things with Him. We will take comfort knowing that your happy memories will remain forever in our hearts. We also pray for comfort and strength for Uzo and the kids. We all miss you!! Auntie Adoma and Mama Sisi . Love always, Janeso .

Uncle Paa Koi was how we popularly called you. I went on Facebook to wish Auntie Uzo a Happy birthday only to hear this sad message from Papa Andoh. No body believed me then I read it out loud. When?..... How?..... What happened?..... And it was just a few weeks to your birthday as well.
Uncle Paa Koi, you consoled me and my sister when our farther (your elder brother) passed away and made SURE we received our inheritance.
Uncle, today is your birthday and am lost for words. A true angel has left this earth.
Uncle Paa Koi, may your gentle soul rest in perfect peace.
Uncle Paa Koi Damerifa Due!!!

Too soon but he was ready. Say not in grief 'he is no more' but in thankfulness that he was. A happy and content father with so much heart for all. Left too soon!!

There comes birth which brings us joy and happiness but yet we fail to realize that there is also death which is finite along with the grief and sadness of being left behind. Just too soon!!

They call it living or some say that is Life or that’s the way the world evolves. Happiness and Sadness is part of our existence if we are still awake. People say that when we lose a loved one here on earth, we gain an angel in heaven that watches over us. Ben the ANGEL!!  I believe this is true and need to take comfort in knowing that we have an angel to watch over us now.

Ben is a gentle Giant and always had positive words to come out of his mouth, a charisma that was next to none. My living Angel gone too soon!! My Rock my best friend, my calmer, my peaceful thought and my sense of reasoning and you can see that in his to lovely kids. He surely left his mark and his ripple effect is everlastings.

Stop…..Stop and Listen I say stop again and listen, you will hear Ben’s Voice saying it is okay, do not force it is well, it was too soon but we will meet again. I seek the Comforter to make sense of this loss that has everyone surprised, angry, hurt and paralyzed with no words. (Silence)

Words of encouragement to all is to have faith, seek for that faith is a powerful gift and if you believe we will all meet again then please take comfort and cling on to that. But be rest assured God’s message is life and truth.

People please seek comfort in one another, embrace your earthly family but seek everlasting spiritual strength which comes from the Lord your God.

Ben the silent. Ben the Calmer, Ben the Inspirational, Ben our Star, Ben the Wise, Ben the Helper, Ben the Giver, please be our Angel in Heaven and thank you for your presence in our life.

I firmly believe that God has accept YOU with open arms for all the good You have done while You were on this earth.

WE WILL FOREVER MISS YOU EVERYDAY BUT YOU ARE IN US

Dear Ben,

I write with a heavy heart, tears in my eyes and a huge lump in my throat, still unable to comprehend what has happened and why.

Thank you for welcoming me into your home and your family all of those years ago. You made such a huge impression on me back then with your calm nature, twinkling smile and those kind eyes that expressed such wisdom and sheer contentedness with life.

You were a true gentleman in every sense and one of very few that I have had the luck or pleasure to meet in my life!

Such fond memories of the times that you, Uzo and the kids visited me in Devon... driving along the crazy roads along the North Devon coast at a snails pace, (with Uzo panicking that she would fall of the edge)! Sitting together on my favourite beach at Woolacombe... Introducing you to my new family, eating together, laughing. How I wish we had met again here in Portugal, but life threw a curve ball and it was not meant to be.

You had an amazing gift of making those around you feel good about themselves, - you certainly made me feel confident and proud of the changes I made and my achievements in life. Somehow you managed to express so much with so few words... effortlessly.

It is crazy to think that such a gorgeous man with such a pure soul should leave the earth so early - I cant begin to imagine the incredible wisdom you would have amassed, had you lived to become an elder.

Nonetheless, you have left your positive mark on the many people whose lives you have touched and I know that your children and Uzo will carry the bones of your being, filled with your goodness and light, blessed to have been loved by such a good and special man.

I hope you felt that giant bear hug I sent you mid September fella - it came from the heart.

BIG love always,

Mel. xxxxxxxxxx

Dear Ben, I am blessed to have had such a wonderful brother in law. You were more of a big brother to me. You were very protective and caring. You showed love and kindness to me and my family when you came into our lives. Everyone loved you so much and still do. You ensured that each of us were doing well. You encouraged and taught me to drive. You also ensured that I was comfortable and I wasn't in need. You were always full of joy and laughter. Your smile was always infectious. You put others first and followed up. You shared your ideas and gave us support.
I am finding it hard to believe you are not with us. When you took Uzo home when you were dating at the time, I would watch you from my window and I would ask myself who is this young man taking my sister out. I am so glad you married her. I wouldn't have asked for someone else. You have two beautiful children whom I love so much. Living with you all have helped me grow in so many ways. You encouraged me to take risks and I am so grateful.
Ben a void has been created and only God can fill it for us. I will miss you very much. I am so lost for words. I will not forget you. Thank you for always being there for Uzo, Maame and Ozor. You were a wonderful husband and father to them. What a blessing you were to the family. Thank you for the legacies you have left behind. Two beautiful children who will continue carry on where you left off.
Rest in peace Ben, I won't say good bye because I know by God Grace I will see you in heaven dear brother in law. Shalom

Paa Koi, our hearts are heavy and still in shock at your passing. The youngest of our brothers, you were such a fine gentleman, softly spoken and very respectful.
Little did we know that our conversations with you a few days ago was going to be the last.
The times we spent with you were always happy family moments and those are the memories we shall hold on to.
Pee you've gone too soon but God knows best.
May all your loved ones be comforted with inner peace.
Goodbye baby brother, goodbye.

Dear Ben...dear daddy Ben...because that's what I fondly called you...I am in total shock. This is so hard...this is so difficult but I God knows best. Thank you for your kindness when I had my baby who is all grown up now. I remember how you and Uzo would come to see me and you would both take the baby just to give me a chance to have a shower and have a little rest. Ben....daddy Ben...I know that you are resting in the bosom of the Lord because you were a good man. You will live on in all our hearts. Rest in perfect peace my brother/friend.

Dear Uzo, may the Lord in his infinite mercies give you the strength to cope with this untimely loss. Stay strong my sister. God bless you and the kids always.

My darling sister,
Why am I writing a tribute for Ben in October of 2015 when he is so young. I am completely confused and still in a severe state of shock. September 2015 came with a BIG wahala because we talked on September 3, 2015! We all diligently prayed and fasted but God has a different plan.
You have both been my rock through many life challenges, providing unequivocal support and have never been judgmental. I witnessed your wedding and attest to an exemplary marriage that many should emulate. When it was time to take accounting exams during law school, Ben spent hours teaching me and ensured I sailed through, making the most difficult subject easy. 
During the early stages of my pregnancy with Lolly and on admission at the hospital, Ben was there. Once discharged, Ben came to the hospital, got me and took me to your home in Plaistow, knowing you were not there to take care of me because you travelled to Nigeria to make arrangements for your father’s funeral. Ben and Julie facilitated my quick recovery.
I will always remember visiting you guys in Wellingborough in 2002 with my little angel Lolly, when she was only 6 months.  I remember Lolly had an aggressive virus/cold that kept me awake all night. You and Ben took us to emergency and when we came back to your home, Ben took Lolly and kept her throughout the night, so that I can get some rest. Even after Lolly’s tragic death in 2005, and the years thereafter, you and Ben remained a huge source of strength that helped me go through the many dark moments of my life. 
Geographical location was unable to separate us because as you all moved back to Ghana, you and Ben never stopped checking on me. Words is simply inadequate to express the grief I feel but I have to contain myself so that I can provide a capable shoulder for you, Maame and Ozor to lean on. 
Be proud Uzo, your husband and the love of your life was a great man. Ben was a man of few words, intelligent, humble, kind, compassionate, and achieved so much in his very short life. He loved you and the children so much my darling sister and so, hold on to those wonderful memories. For the moment and in the near future, the memories will bring tears and make you sad but in the years to come it will bring you comfort and a smile. Always remember how much we all love you and the children. You are not alone.

Mr Ben is a very kind person and gentleman. I don't know him that much but had some business partnership with his company which was very fruitful. I am actually short of words to express the little I know about this so kind soul. His sudden death is a shock that I still can't do away with. May God strengthen his family and grant peace to his soul.

In a short space of time that we met at Tema, through the very brief times in the Project Management program and on the few occasions in Hortserve meetings, you made an impression that lives with me till now. I love your assertiveness and composure. A real person. Ben, may your dream live on in the lives you touched. Adieu amigo, adieu my friend till we meet again.