I have put off writing this tribute, not because I do not know what to say or that I do not wish to say it; the pain and deep sense of loss has so far, restrained me. I cannot begin to express my deep sense of loss and bewilderment at your loss so soon, Dad.
Growing up watching you, you demonstrated your love as an affectionate father; you modelled to me what a true father should look like. Your dedication and commitment to the family was beyond question. You laboured in time of want and in time of plenty to ensure we all had the best we could afford. Your heart and motives were genuine and pure, though sometimes your ways were unrefined. As I watched your dedication to your wife, my mother, I am determined more than ever to ensure the legacy of good marriage is passed to the next generation. I still vividly remember your 50th wedding anniversary like it was yesterday. I am very proud to call you Daddy! Your dedication to family certainly gives us all a standard to work towards and surpass if we can!
Your hard work and selflessness was without question. I watched you through the years demonstrate integrity, forthrightness and an unquestionable dedication to service. As a young man, I watched you stand up for what you believed, even if it meant imprisonment; You stayed the course. Your values and principles were never in doubt, you were never afraid to speak the truth even to your hurt. As a minster you preached the Truth, you were not one to cater to itchy ears. Beyond preaching the Truth, you lived it as much as it laid in your power. You were not a hypocrite; you practiced what you preached. Lots of people look up to celebrity as heroes, but dad you are my Hero. No one can match these admirable, brilliant and remarkable qualities in my eyes.
Over the years, we have become friends, rubbing minds over issues, seeking your opinion over matters and you often sought my perspective on issues that were thorny for you. I started to get some glimpses of the working of your mind and an understanding of what makes you tick! You are a deeply insightful man; my world, no, the world will not be the same without you. You touched everyone around you with your insight, affection and wisdom. Our friendship blossomed even more over the last few years as we discussed various issues and got a lot closer. Your visits are always so welcome: Oh how I will miss those quiet times we spend together just walking or sitting at the beach!
You model what true godliness is to me; your dedication to the Lord is without question. You spent and were spent for his service. Your life reflected your message, you spared nothing in His service, till your last day you served Jesus. You dedicated your abilities, talents and resources to his service, you had a heart for souls, you modelled your life to fit the His word. You made me understand that godliness with contentment is great gain. Your faith in His ability has impacted by understanding, dependence and dedication to Jesus. Dad you have run your race, you have finished your fight, now a there is in store for you the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to you on that day. Well done Dad, you ran well!
As I bid you farewell, the lessons I have learnt from you, your principles, lifestyle and you Godliness will never depart from me. I am certain that one day I will see you again, in the bosom of our Lord.
Good bye my Daddy, my Hero, my Friend, my Mentor, good bye.
Shola Keripe.