I thank God for Auntie's life. She opened her doors to us as Toyin's friends. She loved us and fed us. She cared for everyone around you and taught us to value everyone.
Auntie, today, we CELEBRATE You and your wonderful legacy.

On behalf of the Ogunkoya Family (Unife), l express our sincere condolence to your family. May God Almighty strengthen and comfort you all at this difficult time. Mrs Balogun was a Good friend to Prof and Mrs Ogunkoya at the University and the children knew each other very well.
Pele Toyin, my warm regards and will continue to keep you all in our prayers. Greetings to awon Daddy. All keep safe. Rest in peace Ma.

Aunty Ebun will be sadly missed. Thank you for all your kindness towards me. I am most grateful for how you touched my life in so many ways. I recall how you walked me into the CMD's office in Ile ife in 1995, when I was seeking to do my internship. He had no choice but to listen to you. I still can't believe the simplicity with which you took the situation. God bless you. And may God comfort the Balogun family.

My dearest Auntie Ebun as I always call you, you are the last of my paternal aunties to leave us from the OLOMWO OMOLOKUN FAMILY, the largest clan in Mopa. You have left a big gap in the OLOMWO OMOLOKUN Family. You were so full life and energy that death never crossed my mind for you at all. Anyway our times are in the Lord's hands. As Christians we know that physical death is not the end but our souls live on to be with the Lord God our Saviorand Redeemer.

Nobody goes to visit you and leave hungry.. You will make sure we all eat the most delicious food ever .That is auntie Ebun always....Just being in the kitchen with you cooking made me learned a lot about excellent ways of cooking delicious healthy food... You are one of a kind in the art of cooking, auntie. What about being neat and hard working...whenever I come to see you in Ife, I would ask who is helping you with housework...you would reply that you do everything yourself, and yet your house is always spotlessly clean and well decorated...You are an example for all women in that respect.
What about fashion and looking young...I would tease you of not seeing a single gray hair in your hair auntie and you are forever looking young, you would smile and say even those older than you do not have grey hair ...referring to your senior brother late Prof. TAIWO DARAMOLA (laughing) and the fact that all of us look young in this family OLOMWO OMOLOKUN FAMILY is because it's in our GENES!! Then we would laugh together happily, thanking God for His blessings.

I will miss you auntie Ebun but God loves you best. I will miss your stories of family events that happened when I was born, young and growing up. When I would call you even few weeks before you passed away, we were still chatting away and laughing...yes I want to remember you in a happy and bubbly way auntie Ebun as you were.

May God comfort Uncle Dayo, Toyin, Yinka, Folake, Chris, the grandchildren, nieces nephews, cousins and all relatives and friends. May your soul rest in perfect peace and light perpetual shine upon you. Amen

From Angela Bola Benson, Nee OMOLOKUN

Grandma, you will be missed. We pray that the Almighty Father grant you eternal life and may the whole family be strengthened at this time.

Mummy was loving, caring, hospitable, organised, thoughtful, Godly, and of integrity. She opened her home to us, accepted us as her children and our children as her grandchildren as well as gave us choice gifts periodically. She was of immense help to us in our time of need. Her dress sense and ambience of her home were remarkable. Everything she touched turned out sparkling. She loved truth and decorum. She was courageous. 'Remi, 'Dolapo, 'Damilola and I will miss her. May the Lord comfort Papa and our 'siblings'.

Goodbye for now, Aunty Ebun.

Most of all, I will miss your fierce hugs. I pray that God will comfort and strengthen Uncle Dayo, Toyin, Folake, and your families.

I think heaven is a better place, so we can still celebrate you, and cherish the good memories of you. Your life had an obvious and resonating positive impact, so we know that your legacy will live on for many generations after your departure.

I know the family will miss you very much but let us instead try to stick together and comfort and love one another in the time we all have left. Please let me know if there is ever anything I can do, or if there is any way I can be of help.

"Mama Balogun" as we fondly called Mummy, was a joy to be around. She had a piece of herself for everyone all at once. She was such a pleasant and ever loving hostess. She got it all covered and would always reciprocate visits. Mummy made people feel special and welcomed.
Mummy gave me my first Christmas wreath...she placed it on our door post and left a beautiful message for us. She was super spectacular. Mummy visited me at home and at my office, we talked for hours and I would still not want her to leave. She made me feel super comfortable, as "IKT's wife" and as a daughter, she made me feel I had known her longer than IKT. She would call or come on my birthdays bearing gifts...she did this ever before our children came. She fondly called me "Yinyin" and loved our children dearly. They always looked foward to Grandma Balogun's doughnuts...she made the best...."I wish I got the recipe from Mama"...one of our last discussions. We will always be grateful for the chilled drinks in a gigantic cooler (it took you days to complete the delivery) and the oven cooked jollof rice you gave us for IKT's inaugural lecture. Your jollof rice fed us and our friends from the USA for days on end....
Dear Mummy B, we miss you, our children miss you...if we knew that our last call would be at Easter, I would have asked for all the recipes to live a worthy life as you did.
I know you are in a better place and I know you are in heaven. May we remember your legacy of love, caring, concern, selflessness and generosity, so we may live a worthy life like you....
Rest in peace my Mum....Mummy Balogun.

Mama Balogun as fondly called by us, it is very difficult to believe that you have gone despite the fact that we spoke with you sometimes ago hoping that you would still come back to meet us again in Nigeria. We have the assurance that you have gone to rest with the Lord after serving the Lord through all your contributions to the upliftment of humanity. You have served the Lord faithfully in various ways as Social Worker during the active years that you still continued during your retirement till the end of your life. You loved to give generously and also contributed to assist those who were in need around you: the physical challenged, children and others who are too numerous to mention. Our family greatly appreciated your motherly role in our lives. We thank the Lord for your life. "Mama has fought a good fight, she has finished her course, she has kept the faith". We pray that the Lord will continue to uphold Baba Emeritus Prof. Balogun, the children, family members and the loved ones she has left behind. Also pray that the grace of God will be sufficient for us all to bear the loss. We will really miss you mama. Prof. & Dr. (Mrs.) Moses, Taiwo Akanmu & Children

This is an extremely difficult tribute to write for Mama who has been a larger-than-life personality from my childhood until adulthood. All I will be able to recount here are sweet memories of: Okin biscuits and fruit juice, donuts, zobo drink, your bear hug, your overwhelming hospitality and, your loyal friendship to our parents in their lifetime and afterwards. Our prayers are with Daddy and the entire Balogun, Olutoye, and Bamgboye Families at this difficult time. May God's comforting arms envelope you all in Jesus' name. A kú araférakù.

'Diran Oshobi

Dear Aunty Ebun or popularly known by us 3 boys as Mrs EK. Words actually do fail me but as I have those flashbacks, all I have are good memories. Tough, principled and kind you were. Really trying to write but cant get through with the emotion that your leaving brings. Say hello to my brother in heaven. I am trying but I really can't write....REST ON Mrs EK.

Mama Ebun Balogun. A great mother. A wonderful disciplinarian. A faithful and dependable disciple of the Lord. A very bold, strong and fearless personality. She was an example of what a man can do a woman can do better.

Little did we know when we were on phone with you on April 11, 2020 for 14 mins 46 sec, that it was going to be the last. You were a mother to us. The welfare nature in you was evident. We appreciate your visit which all of the time was not without either donuts, cake, etc. Ah mummy, how can I forget Zobo. All of which she prepared herself. A very skillful, hardworking and dutiful mama.

A very good lover of evangelism. A great supporter of us at Good News Baptist Church, a Preaching Station of Ebenezer Baptist Church, Ile-Ife. The Church is missing you already. You were a great encourager. A righteous fighter. It was nice working with you on the board of ICT of Ebenezer Baptist Group of Schools. Your period as the Chairperson of the Board was awesome. Indeed you were again an example of what a man can do a woman can do better.

Your passing on to glory is a loss. We are only consoled in the fact that it is Heaven's gain. Sleep on dear mother. Sleep on dear faithful mother. See you on the resurrection morning.

Very fondly
Abiola and Sola Asa

I write in Memory of our Dearly Beloved Mummy Balogun.
Mummy Balogun has been so loving to us and especially to me.
As soon as I met her through sister Toyin, our chemistry connected immediately.
She is a selfless and honorable individual. She is very tough and tenacious and yet continuously showed her tender love.
She led a very purposeful life.
She always had something she was taking care of each time. There was no dull moment in her presence.
She was always productive, with activities going on, both at home and abroad.
She was always asking about each of my children and she is very well known by all my siblings and the other members of my family.
Whenever I have a family obligation in Nigeria, she stands right by my side and with Daddy too.
She wakes up early in the morning to make sure she is there for me also on time, always asking what she can contribute to our midst.
Life would generally be such a better place if everyone was to be like mummy.
What you see is what you get.
She was so generous both with her tangible and emotional gifts.
She is such a loving mother that never held back in showing her love.
It's still like a dream that she is no longer with us.
To be absent in the body is to be with our Lord.
We are comforted that she is resting in the bosom of the Almighty.
We love you very much Mummy but our Lord loves you more.

-With his agape love,
The Olutimehin Family

My dear aunty,

It saddens me to hear of your passing, but I take solace in the fact that you have been called to glory and are in a better place. I have many fond memories of your loving and kind nature, and I'm blessed to call you family. You will be sorely missed. May your Beautiful soul rest in perfect peace in Jesus's name (Amen)

- Oluremi (Thomas Bello Olorunsola) Samuel

There was never a dull moment with Grandma. She celebrated all the Adeniyi family events from graduations to inductions, both within and outside Ile-Ife. Even when my parents couldn’t be bothered about small feats like my matriculation into OAU, Grandma still came bearing gifts and food to celebrate with my friends.

Like a ray of sunshine, she lit up every room she was in. I’ll never forget my very first conscious recollection of visiting the house on Rd 13. Grandma picked my siblings and me up from our house on Rd 19 and treated us to such a fun time, that we told our dad we weren’t ready to go back home when he came to pick us up.

These and many are the moments that will live in our hearts forever for they are ones that death cannot touch.
May the Lord continue to comfort all those she has left behind and pave her way into eternal life.

Miss you dearly, Grandma.

- Taiwo ‘Seesin Adeniyi

Mommy was so full of life. Very sharp and alert. She remembered everybody’s name, including the children. She made everyone feel special. Good night mommy, you ran a good race. Love you,

Gbenga, Bunmi, and Tinu Agboola.

TRIBUTE TO OUR DARLING AUNTIE, MRS. EBUNOLUWA KOFOWOROLA BALOGUN

Auntie’s death came to us as a rude shock; very painful! We met Auntie and Uncle, Professor and Mrs. Balogun, early in our careers in Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife. They were both our seniors and we respected and admired them a lot. We fondly call them Uncle and Auntie.
In later years, our families got closer getting to a point where we were always invited to important events in their household. We celebrated their 50 years wedding anniversary together, Uncle’s 80 years birthday party, etc. One remarkable thing about her was the way she and Uncle brought up their children who grew up respectful, respectable and with the fear of God. What a blessing!
Auntie would stop by one’s office in recent years just to visit. On many of such occasions, she would be told that she was looking so good for age, well-kempt and that, to everyone’s admiration. 
Auntie was an epitome of love; when she got any good news about you, she would rejoice so much that one would think that she was at the center of it all. We found that very touching because that was the demonstration of the heart of a mother.
Auntie loved all; a people’s person, classy, joyful, elegant, yet her love transcended all classes. She loved all the people that she had dealings with, young and old. What a beautiful soul!
We will surely miss her. We are comforted by the fact that she is resting in the bosom of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ! Our sincere prayer is that the Lord will comfort and keep Uncle, her children, grandchildren, and loved ones that she left behind in Jesus Name.

Lovingly,
Professor Kunle and Mrs. Alaba Kehinde
Formerly of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State, NIGERIA.

The last enemy to be defeated is death. Be comforted, Profs Toyin, Yinka, Daddy, and the entire family. Pleasant in the eyes of the Lord is the death of his saints. Heaven has gained a gem in mommy. May the Lord keep you, and all yours in Jesus name.
Pastor Leke Banjo

I had the privilege of being taught English Literature by Mama Balogun at Our Lady's Girls High School, Famia Road, Ile-Ife. While her husband was a lecturer at the University of Ife, now Obafemi Awolowo University. Apart from being a wonderful Teacher, who saw us through very good grades in our WAEC examinations, she was a very good Mother and friend to me while I was in school. I remembered one particular incident when she rescued me from another Teacher in school who was teaching her students the wrong thing and I had the boldness to correct her. Your memory lives on in my heart Mummy. Sleep on in the bosom of our Lord, till we meet to part no more.

What! Auntie Ebun I keep remembering our time in Baptist High School, Agbor. A loving but no nonsense Senior. Always fair and truthful. After many years we met at Ife where we lived as neighbours. Our children were/are like brothers and sisters. You remained that principled person I knew. She played an active roll in our Church group: The United Sisters. We spoke a few weeks ago and there was no reason to doubt you remaining for many more years. Auntie rest in peace. We all miss you. May God be with Prof and the rest of the family.

From : Ebenezer Baptist Church, Eleyele , Ile Ife, Osun State, Nigeria.

We want to appreciate the Almighty God for the meaningful and fulfilling life of Mama Ebun Balogun.
  Though her departure to meet with the Almighty God was so painful to us as a Church, yet we have an assurance that she had gone to REST.
   Mama impacted positively in the children, students and Youth ministries, her efforts cannot be overemphasized. Ebenezer Baptist Church Group of Schools will forever remember her contributions to the school especially the establishment of ICT centre when she was the chairperson of the school's management committee.
   Her humanitarian services, vision and purposeful life, determined and committed heart, her heart of sincerity, rescue mission for the less privilege, lover of all children and Youths irrespective of whom you are nor background, and to crown it up her giving and caring for all, will forever be remembered.
   In fact, Mama had left behind an indelible footprint and a great vacunm which words cannot express.
   Our prayer is that the Almighty God will comfort Baba, Prof. Emeritus Balogun in time like this and His grace will be sufficient for him and the entire family.

               Bro. Oyasola Adedayo .O
              Church Secretary.

My deepest Condolences to Daddy, Toyin , Folake and the Entire Balogun , Daramola, Olutoye and Bamigboye Families. I pray Gods comfort and strength upon you all in Jesus Name, Amen.
Mummy Balogun is indeed unforgettable, she was one of a kind ! she was a trailblazer I can never forget her, she was a mother to all of us, she was consistent, bold, classy, loving , passionate, energetic, funny and generous. Her zest for life was spectacular, her depth of hospitality uncommon.
Professionally she was a Social worker Per Excellence, she cared and loved deeply.
My Xmas memories as a child would be incomplete with out mentioning her.
Her house was the starting point of our xmas festivities. Every xmas eve which is Toyins birthday . She spoiled us like her own and disciplined us when needed. She took no nonsense from anyone. Her barbecues were second to none , Her Fried Chicken was delectable, her fruit punch was the best, her cookies and cakes were special. Her xmas trees were simply beautiful, totally decked up. As a child I always admired her stellar dressing , her accessories were always matching , she was just a classy mommy .
I thank God for her Life and exemplary legacy, and pray that God will grant her Eternal rest in Jesus Name.
Sun re o Iya Rere , we love you and we will will miss you sorely.

Mama Balogun will be greatly missed in Ebenezer Baptist Church, Eleyele, Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria where she made serious impacts. Her contribution to the development of Ebenezer Baptist Group of Schools can not be forgotten quickly. May God strengthen Prof. Balogun, comfort and bless all that Mama left.

How does one begin to describe the life and times of Mama Ebunoluwa Kofoworola Balogun, whom the Lord
has called to be with Him at this time. A mother, a grandmother, a teacher, a social worker, a philanthropist, a counselor, a church worker, an activist and an "agborandun" . Yinyinade aptly summed up her life thus: "Mama Balogun gave a piece of herself to everyone she came across and had a relationship with". All of us friends of her children were her adopted children, and she was our adopted mother. Toyin and Yinka, please, be strong for Daddy. We are pained, shocked, troubled and short of words, but our solace is in the resurrection of the dead. Rest in peace sweet mother.

Posted on Behalf Of My Mum Dr Mrs Sike Olorode

I was shocked and saddened by the news of the passing of my beloved Auntie Ebun Balogun. Her late Brother Professor Daramola and my Father worked together as operating room nurses at the Baptist Hospital Ogbomosho before I was born. Her closeness to my late Auntie Late Mrs Aderonke Bolarinwa Amao brought us closer together. She was a unique person , in a special class all by herself. Her loss is irreparable. She was loving , kind , generous, loyal, her hospitality was legendary. Her legacy of love and service should be a consolation to Prof ,Toyin, Folake , the whole family and all of us mourning her loss. May God grant her a well deserved eternal rest till we meet to part no more on the Resurrection Morning.

From Rev’d Joseph O. Olabiyi

A GREAT GEM HAS GONE!

My name is Rev'd. Joseph O. Olabiyi from Ebenezer Baptist Church, Ile Ife (Nigeria).

I and my family want to thank God for the life of Mama Ebunoluwa Kofoworola Balogun, she was a blessing to our family, Youth Fellowship and entire Ebenezer Baptist Church, Ile ife (Nigeria).

Mama Balogun was an active member of our Church, a one time very strong member of Church Council and past Chairperson of School Management of Ebenezer Baptist Group of Schools. When was the chairperson of School Management, she used her resources, family resources and her influence to take the Church Schools to a very great height. She was very loved by all teachers and students both the secondary and primary sections of the school.

Mama Balogun is a lover of youths and children. The Youth fellowship of the Church will miss you a lot.

Mama Balogun was an advocate for the less privileged and unrepentant generous giver. She was never tired of giving to help the helpless.

Mama Balogun was an epitome of boldness and a no nonsense woman. She was not afraid to speak the truth any time and any where.

Mama Balogun has zero tolerance for dishonesty. If you are not honest you can not be her friend.

Mama Balogun loved Church worship and she believed in Prayer. She always thanked me for my prayers.

Mama Balogun married a wonderful husband, Prof. E. E. Balogun, she loved her husband, her children and grand children very well. She often discussed them with me. Baba Balogun and family will miss you a lot.

Mama Balogun, was very hardworking and energetic. Her house was always neat and well arranged. I never saw any full time house helper in her house. She was always up and doing.

Mama Balogun was always accountable, if you give her money on any project, she will give you the details of how she spent the money.
These are the few things I want to say about this great Gem for now.
I and my family will miss you a lot.

Mama No nonsense, a great visionary, a lover of youths and children, a generous giver, an advocate of the helpless and a lover of God.

I pray that God will comfort her family and her Children will continue in her good works.

GOOD NIGHT MA.

Rev'd Joseph O. Olabiyi.

Am at a loss of words but I will just say that mommy Balogun was a principled, firm and tough lady in character. She was kind and nice as well. I will not forget your display of love for me and my siblings during my mom's burial. You saw to it that every detail was met, and that we were made comfortable and looked well presented. I pray you rest in peace in heaven. Say hello to my mom for me. God rest your beautiful soul.

I am so sad to hear of your passing lovely Mom. You were a mother to all of us (my siblings). I can’t forget how you took care of us, stood by us, poured your love on us when our mom passed. You made sure we lacked for nothing when I came home with my sister. Mom words cannot express how sad & the hurt I feel inside at this moment. Thanks to you and Dad for taking me in, giving me my first job in Ife and coming all the way to my wedding. The Lord will rest your soul in perfect peace mom. May you continue to rest in the bosom of our Lord & Savior Jesus Christ. The Lord be with Dad, my Aunties, children and families. Love you Mom ❤️❤️

Great grandmother!

You'l never die in our mind of mind!!

You needed not be consaguinealy connected to us to stand so grand, kind and motherly unto us.

We needed not to see your Certificate to know that you were a quintessential 'Social Worker'.

No one needed any further convincing to say that you were a great 'fundraiser' and a 'fighter' for the oppressed, women, children and 'things of the kingdom'.

Good night, Grand-Ma.

{Prof. Funso ADESOLA & family}.

From Rev'd and Mrs. 'Lowo Mamadelo

Never knew that our discussions that ended with "safe journey" was for a forever journey! Painful when you miss an individual, who, when committed to a cause would pursue and discharge the duty with a high sense of commitment and faithfulness! Ever neat, assiduous, frank, honest and diligent: that's the Ebun that we pastored for nearly a quarter of a century! Your services to the Lord at Ebenezer Baptist Church, Eleyele, lle-lfe, Nigeria, and the Church's Group of schools won't go unrewarded. They still bear testimonies to the kind of Christian you were. You served humanity as a social worker like no other! How your memories ran up and down our minds while writing!
   Though your smile is gone forever,
   And your hands we cannot touch
   Still, we have so many memories
   Of the one we love so much.
   Your memory is our keepsake
    With which we will never part.
    God has you in His keeping;
    We have you in our hearts.

To your dear husband, we plead comfort from above. Prof, you aren't a widower, but the husband of a wife with wings! As and when needed, the "still small voice" of the Holy Spirit shall minister to you.

Folake and Toyin, it is well! We commit you and your spouses to the divine care of the Almighty God. Satan and satanic forces shall neither take advantage of any of you, nor arrange your earthly journey contrary to God's arrangement for you in Jesus' most precious name. 

Rev'd & Mrs 'Lowo Mamadelo

Aunty Ebun, my mummy, my mentor and one of the best persons that God gave me the grace to know. I was a student at University of Ife in the late 70s when I knew you and practically grew up in the most fun and loving environment ever. You were kind, compassionate, adventurous but very firm. You were the MARIA in Sound of Music! I loved you so much I named my 1st daughter Marian Ebunoluwa Kofoworola after you. You and Uncle attended my 60th birthday 2 years ago and had fun. I saw you last at Ife after Kola passed. I will forever remember you as I have done over the past 42 years. My tears flow right now but I will focus on all those fun memories of you and turn them to laughter. May the Lord strengthen Uncle Dayo, Toyin, Folake and their families. You will be soooo sorely missed. Adieu aunty love and rest in peace. Goodnight ma.

May Grandma Baloguns soul rest in the Lord and Holy Spirit comfort be with her family.                                            It was shocking to hear of mamas passing, she was always so lively. The memory and legacy of mama will continue to live on and be remembered. Her zeal and care on missionary trips in Nigeria from what Ive heard & all the other testimonies Ive read.            I will always remember her genuine motherliness everytime I encountered her & especially her visit when I was sick.
It is well, till we will all meet again in Christ, by His Grace amen

Mummy Balogun as I fondly call you. Hmmm, I am not able to wrap my head around the fact that past tense is being used!!! 
I knew mummy B before I really knew Toyin. I remember her as a “fireball”. She said it as she saw it!!! One of the ladies from the Eleyele Baptist church  I always admired her whenever she visits the Oshobis. As I knew Toyin and became blessed and honored to be one of the numerous children she adopted, I saw that big heart that loves deeply. I loved how she reasoned. She will leave me in stitches laughing with her jokes. Loved how she kept her home. I remember her owl collections. Yummy donuts. Her stories to let you know that she had a very humble beginning and she is where she is because of God.  Seems like 2 seconds ago when we talked over the phone for almost one hour. She was full of prayers for me and mine. She cracked me up. She encouraged me. She gave her testimony of how she is blessed with the people in her life. She told me she was doing good and I believed her even though that voice that never needed a microphone ( in the Health science lecture theater C or anywhere ) sounded a wee bit weak to me. I thanked her for spending time with me and her prayers. I thank God I had that last chance with her. 
Mummy B, I know you are up there, telling it as it is, periodt!!!! ;). A beautiful woman with a heart of gold. She has left the painful days that were of recent and the weak body. For those of us left behind, we will keep your memories in our heart and smile when we remember. To my dear friends and sisters from another mother, Toyin and Folake with their hubbies, e pele gan. Big hugs. Daddy B, it is well sir. 
 I pray for God’s comfort and peace at this difficult time. I will miss her greatly. My mentor, encourager, lecturer, mother and friend, adieu ma. XO.

Auntie was a social work and rehabilitation practitioner par excellence; a one-person ‘squad’ advocating for the provision of facilities and resources for persons who were differently-abled and those requiring rehabilitation, while she was in service and after she retired. She was a disciplinarian and she was disciplined. She was a committed home maker, she loved good things and the Lord God blessed her with good things and a beautiful family. Auntie was firm and she brooked no nonsense, just as she was generous to persons who were close to her and those she knew from afar.
Auntie, you affirmed my strengths and those of my daughter, Ifeolutembi and you were unwavering in your support for us. My daughter used to say: “ I often forget that it is Grandpa Balogun that is your relation, I just keep thinking it is Grandma Balogun because of the way you two interact”.  I pray that God will continue to uphold Uncle, Toyin, Folake, the grandchildren and their spouses. Rest in the Bossom of the Lord Auntie and may your memories inspire those of us you left behind, Amen.
Prof. Olutoyin Mejiuni (Of the Gbadi and Jagan Families, Mopa, Kogi State, Nigeria)

My mentor, my role model, my friend; a mother figure, you loved me unconditionally.
Providence brought us together when I became Kola (of blessed memory)’s Biology teacher in 1985. It was a natural bond as you saw a young Baptist woman you could mentor, and I took right to you as I admired your finesse, candor, and lack of condescension. Words fail me at this very moment but I want the world to know you lived true to your name, Ebunoluwa, God’s gift. You were truly a gift to humankind. 

I was overcome with the pain of this colossal loss but now I celebrate your life and times. You lived your life to the fullest serving God and humanity and I know you're with him right now wearing a crown of stewardship. I celebrate you for giving me your shoulders to rest on in challenging times. I celebrate you for the happy moments we shared. I celebrate you for fighting my cause, unknown to me most of the time. I celebrate you for teaching me that the truth will always prevail. I celebrate you for all the treats you spoiled us with at the numerous OAUIS events. I celebrate you for showing love to the down trodden, especially those that could not reciprocate your generosity.

You celebrated all my successes, big and small. In fact, you were there when we laid the foundation of a final major project I embarked on at work, you stood by me as always and I vividly recall the warmth of your big hug as you beamed with pride. You promised to attend the commissioning as you had done many other times and while your absence will be sorely missed on July 14, I am content knowing that God needed you more.

I am happy I made it to Houston for your 81st birthday and basking in your characteristic radiance gave me a ray of hope that you would make it back home. I still have tons of unread messages from people whose lives you have touched. You not only spent but were also spent on what you believed in.
My love-personified mama, it is not good bye but good night to see you on the resurrection morning.
Take your deserved rest grandma Balogun as fondly called by the Funso Adeniyi clan. 
Abiyamo tooto, oluku omo re. 

- Aderonke Adeniyi.

A mother to us all!
I, Dr Atinuke Uwajeh nee Oluokun will like to pay a tribute to a remarkable lady and mother.
I believe I got to know Mummy Balogun in 1984 or thereabout when Prof Toyin Olutoye, her daughter and I were classmates at Obafemi Awolowo University teaching hospitals.
Toyin's Mom's office on the ground floor of the Dept of Community Health then at the faculty of Health Sciences was our abode together with other ladies, Mojisola and Jibike to mention a few of us.We studied there, ate there and generally were a constant feature there. I know she kept a stash of teas, coffees, cookies and all sorts there for us as young adults just starting off in life.
She loved us unconditionally even though she did not know any of our parents but we were good enough because we were friends with her daughter and she treated us like we were her daughter.
Even though I have not been opportune to see her more frequently after our college years, I remember fondly those early years and the lasting impact her home and office made in the lives of us as medical students then.
I pray that the Lord will comfort the family. The Lord will strengthen Grandpa and the peace of the Lord will overflow over everyone.
Please accept my deep condolences.
Sleep on grandma till we all meet at the saviour's feet.

I met Mama a little over 10 years ago and right from the beginning her personality struck me.
Her daughter, Dr (Mrs).Olutoye and her husband are quite close to my sister, Mrs Ayodele Ogunye and her husband. At times, I get jealous at how closely knit their relationship is.
Though, I only met mama a few times, each meeting was eventful. My mum and I went to visit Mama and papa in Ife, and on getting there, mama had prepared a feast! Every thing was ready. The food was very tasty and we had a great time. After eating, I offered to clear up and do the dishes but mama refused. She did all the cooking, preparation and cleaning up all by herself without any assistance. I noticed she was a stickler for perfection.I admired her energy and I was challenged that day.
On another occasion, my mum was with me in Ibadan and mama called for a description of our address and behold she was at the gate in under two hours. What energy! I wondered.
I always enjoyed talking to her on the phone, she is was ever cheerful, bubbly and always full of life. My mum was heartbroken when she heard mama had passed on and she sends her condolences to the family.
On behalf of my mum, and the Aboyade's, please do accept our heartfelt condolences. We pray that the lord himself will console Papa
and her children. We take solace in the fact that she lived a good life, ran her race and finally gone to rest. May her soul rest in perfect peace.

Chief (Mrs) Bamgbola Esan
Ibadan, Nigeria.

Aunty EBUN,
Elegant, Bouncy, Unstoppable, Noble.
How else can I describe you? Never sure to call you aunty or mummy as you were all rolled into one. You were always there for me. Ironic that this time last year after my mum’s burial you were with us in the house for another week. It’s hard to imagine this house without your boisterous presence, your sense of humour, your firmness, your candour and your counsel.
Thank you for the divine role that God set you to play in the life of Achey and I. We will always remember you.
Aunty sad to let you go, but by God’s Grace, we shall see in the morning.
Odaro ma.

John Tanimola Obaro

Where does one start and how does one begin to write this tribute for Mummy Balogun. These are the thoughts that have been swirling around in my mind over the past two days. How do you compress all the unforgettable moments with her over the past several decades into a few paragraphs? I can’t! 

HER CARE
I experienced her care at barely a week old. My Mother had to go back into the hospital shortly after bringing her first newborn home. My parents reached out to the Baloguns, fellow Nigerian students also living in married student housing at the University of Chicago. Mummy Balogun took me in for the few days my Mother was in the hospital till she returned. Just like that. That was 52 years ago this June! Fast forward to 1984 when I got admission into University of Ife, the Baloguns had long settled in Ife and we had long settled in Ibadan. My parents drove me straight to Ife to tell Mummy Balogun that they were bringing her daughter back to her during the next academic session. And for the next 5 years I would spend at Ife, I became part of the Balogun family again, this time as a young adult. During this time, Mummy ensured that all of her female “children” attending Ife were always put together in the Hostel. I “roomed” with Toyin, Abike Daniyan and Ronke Haastrup during my first year of moving to Moremi and later on “roomed” with Folake in the choice 2 person room (let’s call it a studio apartment ). Literally almost every weekend was spent at the Baloguns at Road 10 where I would experience 1st class hospitality. She loved cooking and I enjoyed watching and learning several things from her which I would practice once I returned home to Ibadan. Her mango juice, pineapple juice etc. She was there for me throughout my stay in Ife. I couldn’t have asked for better Guardians. For various family events, they were there. For my wedding she was there. With my move to Lagos, she was there and each time she visited, she came armed with Zobo, Donuts, Plaintain etc. For my 50th birthday she was there with her culinary delights. For my Dad’s Memorial programme last year she was there with her many culinary delights. Such was her care and hospitality and Joie de Vivre.  

HER IMPRESSION
Once you met her, you wouldn’t forget her. Elegant and Exquisite. So full of life, bubbly and energetic and a master communicator. I guess, these are several of the reasons why her passing is too hard to take in and too hard to believe. Sub-consciously, we had expected that she would be with us for years and years and years to come. Tanimola and I have reminisced over and over again of the last time Mummy and Daddy Balogun spent with us before travelling to the U.S. As we glanced again at their chairs at our dinner table, it seemed to us like yesterday that we were all throwing banters and recounting stories. But it was nine months ago not yesterday! Just yesterday, my youngest sister, Ojochide sent me a picture of pieces of fried yam. She then told me the story behind the fried yam pieces in the picture. She said when she was 8 years old she visited the Baloguns along with my parents. I did the calculations and determined it was while I was at Ife so they must have come to visit me and then the Baloguns. My sister said she couldn’t remember the part about visiting me but she could remember very clearly visiting the Baloguns. She said Mummy Balogun served her with perfectly shaped rectangular pieces of fried yam and she has been trying to emulate her and make those perfect rectangular shaped pieces of yam ever since. This lasting impression was made on my very young sister 34 years ago! Unforgettable were those interactions.

OMO WALE
Her joy and excitement knew no bounds when her cousin (Tanimola) told her he had met someone whom she knew. He said she screamed when he mentioned my name and said “that’s my child”. Her next question was “where did you meet her?”. She never ceased to testify of the LORD’s doing that we met “right under her nose” at Uncle’s 80th birthday party in Ife and she did not know it. She and my Mom were the Mothers of the Day at my wedding. And all my friends and family remember the beautiful toast she gave during our wedding reception. I was her Omowale.
I could write more and more and more and more and more. I just want to thank GOD for the fond memories shared over the past 52 years. Mummy was a gem and we are missing her BIG time. Her Joie de Vivre. The dinner table conversations. I remember during one of our recent conversations telling Mummy that I was seriously managing and rationing the donuts and Zobo until she got back because I didn’t want us to run out before she returned. She laughed. We didn’t realize that our conversation of a couple of weeks ago would be the last conversation on this side of eternity. Two days ago, we brought out the Zobo from the freezer. We looked at it and put it right back. We had hoped, we had prayed that you would come out of this. You did but not as we expected. You came out – on the other side of eternity. And we bow to the LORD’s sovereign will. This past week, I started working out of my newly renovated office and took one of the plants you gave me to the office. I am so glad you got to see the office and pray with me there before you travelled last year. To live in the hearts of those who love you and whom you love, is to never die. May your sweet soul rest in perfect peace.

Much love,
Ache Idachaba-Obaro
Iyawo Tanimola aka Omowale     

Màmá Ẹbun Balogun, adieu. It is very painful that you have to go at this time. All members of the Calvary Princesses & Princesses Fellowship miss deeply your God fearing, caring and giving miens. How we wish you could stay longer to enjoy more of the fruits of your labour. You gave your hands to God and slipped on quietly without telling us goodbye. You may have passed on but your memories would always linger in our hearts. You were a friend, a cheerful giver and a passionate lover of children. You were an epitome of love. You always make us happy whenever you and Bàbá Emeritus Prof Balogun visited us during our annual anniversary celebrations. We earnestly pray that God Almighty will keep and comfort bàbá. We love you but Jesus Christ loves you most. Adieu màmá Ẹbun Balogun, we will meet to part no more at Jesus feet. *CALVARY PRINCES & PRINCESSES FELLOWSHIP*, Ebenezer Baptist Church, Ile-Ifẹ, Ọṣun State, Nigeria.

We will not sorrow like those who do not have Christ.

Mummy, you have fought a good fight, you have finished the race, you have kept the faith. Now is laid before you a crown of righteousness.

There was never a dull moment with Mummy Balogun. She always went out of her way to put joy in people’s faces. She even helped people she never knew. You were a gem and will be greatly missed.

We pray that the Holy Spirit, the true Comforter will comfort the entire family.

Rest in the Lord Mummy Balogun.

Yemi and Tunde Okeremi

The news of your death though devastating to us still brought smiles to our faces because of the life you have lived. We definitely will never forget your fighting spirit, your truthfulness, your kind heart, your attention to details, your love for God and your commitment to God's church. Your finesse when it comes to your appearance even to the last time we saw you last September and your baking skills are always exemplary and have shown us how rounded a person should be. Left to us Mama Balogun, (as we popularly called you) we never want you to leave us. But then, we know that you deserve nothing but the best place which is the bosom of our Lord. Till we meet again to part no more; enjoy resting in the Lord. Prof. Victor Olaleye and family

Aunty Ebun! As you were fondly called. It is so difficult for me to accept that you have gone to be with the lord. I remember all your love and affection. Your cooking skills and donuts. Our visit to Ife was not complete without your entertainment.
A very elegant, caring and courageous woman.
You were very affectionate and cherished the family.
You always light up the room with your presence.
I will forever cherish your fond memories.
Adieu aunty/ Mummy Ife!!
Rest on in the bosom of the Lord!

Oh Auntie,you were such a great and loving lady, an encourager per excellence. It is inconceivable to imagine your ebullient self is no more  Yes we know mortality must yield to immortality, just that this seems to have come sooner than expected  God knows best
Rest in perfect peace Aunty
Your good works follow you. May your rewards be glorious and may God comfort and keep all you have left behind. Adieu

Mommy,
It is hard to believe that you are no longer with us. You were a bubbly spirit, a great blessing, and an amazing mother to all. You will be missed dearly. May God uphold and comfort Daddy and the entire family. Rest in His everlasting arms.

Mama surely left her indelible footprints in the sands of time. Take heart Sister Toyin and Bro Yinka. Mama is having a well deserved rest in the bosom of her creator. Our prayers is that God will continue to comfort you at this time.
Ehin Mama adara o. Amin
From the Fasakins

Auntie was a personal friend and at the same time a family friend. Indeed, she left remarkable footprints on Obafemi Awolowo University campus and in Ebenezer Baptist Church, Ile-Ife with positive impacts on everybody she came across. The big donors to the several projects initiated by her, who must be appreciated in their own rights and those of us enrolled for one purpose or the other along the way were merely responding to her legendary passion for children welfare, education and development. She would forever be remembered for initiating the establishment and construction of the University Day Care Centre and the Ebenezer Baptist Church High School ICT centre among other projects. Rest in perfect peace. May the Lord console us all

Mummy, you were a mother indeed! I am glad that I made that trip to Houston, Texas just to see you some months ago. You were very happy to see me too. You tried to bubble
as usual. You always wanted to be able to coordinate everything and everyone around you. You were very hospitable and paid attention to details, not only when you baked or cooked! We miss you already. Unforgettable, that's who you are! Rest in perfect peace, Mum. We love you. 

Thank you Mummy for effectively stepping into Eyinade’s (our biological mum) shoes when she left us. You gave us all the motherly care and succor. You were there for our Dad keeping him company with long hours of gists on the phone and when you make our time with Daddy(Prof.) to spend the weekend with him. You gave him friendship till the end when you departed for Houston Enroute Oshogbo/Lagos on September 13, 2019. You gave us motherly care from when we ever became conscious of our being.

Sleep well Mummy. May the Almighty grant the family the grace to bear this loss. Amen

Mummy Balogun!! We thank GOD for a life well spent. We The Oshobi family are grateful for your love and kindness you showered on us that we cannot quantify. May the good LORD comfort the entire Family especially Daddy(Prof) .E sun ree o.