How time flies but with golden memories remaining evergreen every year of celebrating this spiritually and professionally decorated Icon! Lady Rowaiye ( my Egbon of a few days), was more than a professional colleague. She was an epitome of beauty in and out, a deeply loving woman with a unique sense of dressing and carriage and a committed leader in the Insurance Industry which she selflessly served with passion, leaving imperishable legacies. She was not only a founding Pillar of the PILA(Professional Insurance Ladies Association), a Past President of the CIIN, an impactful Member of the NCRIB but a personal friend and confidant even during her challenged years!
MAY HER SOUL CONTINUE TO REST IN PERFECT PEACE
DrAderemiAlo.
************

To the Rowaiye families:
Thank you for loving everyone like God the Creator.
As we remember Dear Mom and grandmom: C.A. Rowaiye on this anniversary, let us remember that Jesus once said:
"Those who are not ashamed of me and of my words, the Son of Man will not be ashamed when he comes in his glory and the glory of the Father and the holy angels. Truly, I tell you, there are some standing here who will not taste death before they see the kingdom of God"...Gospel of Christ according to Luke the physician chapter 9: 26 - 27[ I paraphrased].
How has life been treating everyone? For God is my witness, how I long for all of you with the compassion of Christ Jesus. And this is my prayer, that our lovemay overflow more and more with knowledge and full insight to help us determine what is best, every moment until the day of Christ....[ Phillipians 1:8-11].
Affections,
For the Ekundayos...Offspring of AGE & TOE.

Dear Descendants and Family Friends...
I learned recently how briskly our years go by without a second opportunity to say: " I love you" to those who mean so dearly to us.
My Mom: mama Ibeji a.k.a Mrs T.O. Ekundayo told me that I have recently lost one of the best mothers I have ever known.
Dear GrandMa Row... I will miss you sorely.Yet, I look forward to our second reunion at the Master's throne-room - Jesus, the King of all ages. To my big aunts: Auntie Tai, Toyin, Tutu and peers: Bunmi and Tosin, please note that I always remember the good times we've shared and look forward to visiting Nigeria in the nearest future.
Meanwhile, my new mobile since I keep evolving is (862)250-0200.
You may ring up or I will do so in the newer years.
I am convinced that neither death nor life...angels or demons can separate us from the love of God. Peace always....

The term “mother in-law” always seems to carry a bit of negative connotation, but with mine, none of those typical mother in-law “things” were characterized. She was my “other mother” from the day I became her son (in-law). She was selfless, kind, generous, full of words of encouragement and wisdom. I had the best mother in-law in the world (QUOTE ME ANYWHERE)
Rest in peace, and thank you for everything you have done. You truly left the world better than you found it.
Love you Mom.

Derin Adefuwa
Son in law

Grandma,
My dad got home one evening and told me that you, grandma had died and gone to heaven

After processing the thought, I said “does that mean that grandma will rise again on the 3rd day like Jesus?”

Sadly he explained that that isn’t the case, but that I will see you on resurrection day . Thank you for everything you have done for me! I love you grandma.

Ademiniyi and I will miss you very much.

Love
Aderayo. (5 years)
Grand daughter

ADEFUWA FAMILY

“Mummy, mummy, mummy…” Your response was always “yes Tolu, what do you want this time!!!” Mum for once, I would confess I want you right by my side, a mother hen never to go away.

Saying I will miss you is an understatement. I look all around and see you everywhere - in the confidence I portray, the resilient way I face challenges.

Being an “ifanu” ( last born) never worked against me, rather it was more beneficial as I got to understudy you in your prime.

You radiated confidence - you had this saying that “Ẹni to ba ri mi to ba sọ pe ko r’eniyan, se o fẹ ki Ọlọrun sọ kalẹ wa ni?” ( Anyone that see me and says they have not seen a dignitary, do they want God to come down to see them?) With this saying, I saw you walk into places with so much confidence and poise and got the desired results. Even with mighty NEPA/PHCN..lolll!!!

Your style, precision, attention to details is one yet to be beaten.

Haa, Mum your style sha!...Your signature gele style always stood out. You had a style for tying aso oke and another for gele proper. When going for an event, and I felt you were over-dressed, I would say “Mummy, nẹyẹ wẹn ma ti ju t’oloku lọ” (the dressing of the invitee is more than that of the organiser of the event). You would look at me and say with a big smile and pose “my darling, I am Mrs. Rowaiye!”

Mum, the woman I am today is as a result of you. You drove all fears away, you believed in me even when I wasn't at my best. Your silence when I seemingly fell short, taunted me to achieve more. At those times I wish you will just shout and scold me, but you were just too over-understanding.

A listening ear was one thing you had. You were a mother hen that doted on all her many children (biological or not), even my friends can testify I had an AMAZON as mother. Your bed was my haven. That's where countless counsellings took place. Your listening ear was activated. And mum our gists were always gangster - no pretence or colour coding (*wink-wink*).

Your words of wisdom were da bomb. As I grew older, I had a better understanding of your words, and that brought me constantly back to you. It was a Sunday visit that was never to be missed.

One of your many words of wisdom I will pass unto my girls is “Never give yourself to any man because of monetary things. Life is in phases and it's all a matter of time; when you get to the phase he is in, you will realise what he had only offered you was a miserably small part of what he had - which you can now afford more than 10 times over. My darling, it's just a matter of time’.

Thank you so much for your prayers Mum, you would pray for each and every one of us calling out our names one by one. Your prayers worked Mum - how else would I have turned out so right?

The tears can't just stop rolling out. In your words,“Thanks ever so much” Mum.

I used to say countless time “I'm going”, before I actually got up and left for home. You did same this time around. You fought the fight to stay on longer amidst all the pain, but you still had to go.

Mum, I let you go to rest in peace. And I say your words back to you, as you told us when we are leaving the house - “Tara! Be good! Don't do what I wouldn't do”.

Love you Mum - my one and only IYE MI.

Tolulope
Daughter

Grandma,
You have been an inspiration to us, a true leader and a role model. I may have known you for just 12 years but these years have been magical.
I remember we would go to your room under the bed to get biscuit but we always loved the hugs and kisses.Moving to Grandma Ogudu's house didn't stop the enjoyment and love. You moved to the hospital and we got to see and play you on sundays.

Now our Grandma has gone to the best place imaginable, but she shall always remain in our hearts.

We love you Grandma,

Your Grandies:
Osemeke Oluwatobiloba,
Abuose Oluwatimileyin and
Osezulum Oluwatofunmi
Grand children

Mrs Comfort Adunola Rowaiye came into my life when I started dating her daughter. The relationship started out with a lot of scepticism due to our different backgrounds. However the sceptism evolved into acceptance and the role changed into that of a mother-in-law based on the marriage into the family of Rowaiyes of Oke-Sopin in Ijebu-Igbo. She welcomed me and my family with open arms and respected the sanctity of my matrimonial home.
Our relationship soon transmitted from that of a son-in-law to that of a son and mother. She has given me a help-meet to treasure and wonderful sisters and brothers to love.
Her true worth was even more pronounced in death when we learnt of her contributions in the lives she touched in her insurance industry and ordinary people and her church members. She has left a legacy in championing women's prominence in the insurance industry. She was a very good dresser and loved to match colours with complimentary accessories. She also didn't suffer fools gladly if you rubbed her the wrong way. Her numerous grandies as she called her grandchildren will miss the box of goodies under her bed which was a welcome treat anytime they visited Unity Road. 
I am glad that our paths crossed and the greatest joy I have is your salvation. Those of us left behind on earth would strive to emulate the goodness of your heart and stay united under God's loving care. Grandma Ikeja you fought a good fight and finished strong though physically your health was a challenge but in the end we give God glory for your life. 
Sun re o. Goodnight mummy

Michael Usifoh
Son in law

USIFOH FAMILY

"Ba ma ti she wee o?" meaning "how do we tackle this situation o? Was always the first thing you would say when you had something heavy on your heart or our challenges were brought to your attention. But by morning after prayers and supplications all through the night, you would have come up with many ways to handle the situation and the possible outcomes. We threw our lifes situations at you but you carried it with such Grace and Opulence. Everyones challenge was your challenge and you made sure you did all you could to resolve them.

Your reassurance song to us with a big warm hug.... Zuzu sang it to you the last time she saw you, and you responded with a big smile......I'll cherish that moment for life!
"Come sit by my side little darlin'
Come lay your cool hand on my brow
promise me that you will never be
Nobody's darlin' but mine.

Be nobody's darlin' but mine
be honest, be faithful, be true
Promise me that you will never.....
be nobody's darlin' but mine".

You gave your ALL selflessly in love: physically, materially, emotionally , spiritually , especially financially!!!. Your giving was next to none! Your thoughts were always "how / where would you get more money to give out". Envelope upon envelope, week after week. I just wondered how you did that without thinking twice , you indeed had the gift of Giving.

You did justice to the word "Elegance" in your own unique way. You really cracked us up by buying every avaliable colour of something you came across and loved. And of course they had to have it in "Mauve"......."No, its not purple, its Mauve"you always said, lol.......

That morning , i lay by you yet very warm but so still, relishing my last physical warmth from you. Oh I thank God for the opportunity I had to have YOU in my life .Your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure, I'll Love you forever Mummy and miss you beyond measure. From the bottom of my heart, i say "THANK YOU MY DARLING MUMMY".

Bye-bye Maama.

Omo iyere,
Oluwatosin (Adunola)
Daughter

Goodbye Grandma, I will miss you very much.
I congratulate you for winning countless awards during your lifetime and seeing 15 of your grandchildren grow (not many people are so blessed). I will especially miss the song you often sang to me –“ Fola-jim-jim Fola Fola-jim-jim” …..Whether you were singing to me during my visits to Lagos or over the phone I would be dancing to the song . I will really miss that!! Also not forgetting all the sweet treats we used to get from “under Grandmas bed upstairs”!! It was always fun to be at Grandma’s
They say all good things must come to an end. So it seems also to the life of a loving grandma such as you. I am comforted that you are now in a better place, resting in heaven.
Love You Grandma. Thank you for being you.

Folajimi Jacobson
Grandson

To think that I will not have another opportunity to walk through your bedroom door shouting “Ma-am” at the top of my lungs is almost impossible to bear!!! I knew having you with us forever was impossible but as humans we are allowed to dream big, aren’t we!!!!
I feel sooooo blessed to have had you in my life these last 15-odd-years. Years in which you helped shape a naïve young bride into a capable wife, mother (even if I do say so myself!!) and a better human being. So many stories and life-lessons to pick from but the testimony I chose to share today is that meeting we had years ago (first of many as I would later find out), where I learnt a life changing philosophy. Bunmi had recently proposed marriage to me which I accepted. Ma-am called to see me at the Unity road house. Bunmi was in Port Harcourt and I was a bit apprehensive not knowing what to expect. You can imagine how I felt, my soon-to-be mother in law calling for a meeting!!! Little did I know that phrase “Mother-In-Law” was about to change!!! I got to the house all nerves, we feasted on fruits in your bedroom and you went straight to the point. You made it clear in no simple terms that since I was your son’s choice, I was also yours; that you had no word like “daughter-in-law” in your own dictionary and that by marrying into the family I was instantly your daughter QED!! You made me feel right at home eating apples and oranges on your massive bed!! I went home that day in shock because I had heard the usual mother-in-law stories and I always wondered what my experience would be. And truth be told, from that day forward began the wonderful relationship I had with my Mother-In-Love!!!!
Mummy, we will miss you greatly but Glory to God, your legacy lives on in us all.
Ma-am, e sun re o!!!Till we meet again……

Your Daughter,
Adebisi Jacobson(Daughter-In-Love)
Daughter in law

Ma-mm.....You lived a wonderful life worthy of emulation. I sit and think and ponder... so many sweet memories – “Tampampa mi da? Ówuń re” - your sweet melody as you sing to me - I miss you so.

Through the years, my life, my worth, my being - I owe all to you. You chose me - your bumbum-beka and I thank God every day.
Days and weeks and months and years will pass, but still your words will remain; remain to comfort me, remain to guide me, remain to set me aright when I stray.

With your life you touched so many. We accept our loss but we forget not your worth, your smile, your tender ways. In life you triumphed and now we celebrate you..
Thank you ma-mmm, My rock forever you are.

Bunmi JACOBSON
Son

Tribute to Grandma
I really miss my grandmother very much. She was a very nice woman who always cared for her children and grandchildren. She was God fearing and very strict.
On Sundays, we would always go to her house and eat super-delicious peppery hot jollof rice, and garri as well. She would give us chinchin, peanuts and Lucozade Boost, along with grapes and apples that she kept in her fridge, and the milk and milo under her bed.
She would sing to us in her nice, rough but pleasing voice, and at times, would watch TV with us.
I love grapes a lot. And just like how the grapes in the packet eventually end, so did Grandma.
But I know I will see her again, just like how I feel when I see grapes in the fridge again.

Oreoluwa Balogun
Grand daughter

Life goes on in phases. Even after it ends, there is another phase. To some, death could be tragic. But when an honest and upright person like my Grandma passes on, it’s like a graduation. Graduations are bittersweet. Sad because we will miss the 'graduant', and joyful because we know she is finally getting to enjoy the ultimate reward of her hard work and service to others- a blissful forever in heaven.

I miss you Grandma. I will never forget all that you taught me. For one - food discipline; nothing more than two cubes of sugar with garri. I remember the day you told me we were eating yam. I was so happy till I realized it was yam and salted oil. You explained to me that I should always consciously do things to remember the poor so that I don't get caught up in the multitude of my blessing and forget that God, not my efforts gave them to me. I loved your signature rice and pepper sauce (everyone except me called it stew) which made me drink litres of water, and then run back for more of the tasty rice and 'stew'. It was endless in supply every Sunday.

Grandma, your house was my constant hangout on Sundays after Church for obvious reasons. I remember when just before I entered Secondary school, I told you that I hadn't bought a wrapper for school yet. You told me not to worry and gave me the iro of one of your best outfits. I am proud to say that I used that wrapper in school to sleep, iron and even as a make-shift pillow till my graduation. How can I forget the way you looked at me with such adoration when I told you I won the first prize in JSS2. You told me your head was swelling and I should press it down.

There are so many wonderful memories I have of you. I will never forget any of them. You are - not were (because she lives on in heaven) a truly exceptional woman. It is truly an honour to be the grandchild of a woman like Mrs. Rowaiye. I'm not sad that you've gone because I know you lived a long fruitful life in service to God and humanity, and deserve the very best - Peace. Perfect and undisturbed peace. Life can't offer that. Only God can, and he did.

Rest in peace Grandma. I love you very much. So much. Too much. I am proud to be you grandchild.

Ayooluwa Balogun (aka Teniola)
Grand daughter

Mummy Row, Grandma Ikeja – the 2 names I called you. I remember coming to your office on Adeniyi Jones in 1991. You encouraged me to be focused and make a success of my life. You told me you knew my dad and said “ranti omo eni ti iwo nse” (remember the son of who you are). At that time I had no idea I was going to marry your lovely daughter.

When I got engaged to Tutu years after meeting you, (though we had been friends in University in the 80’s), you encouraged me and you were very happy with the courtship. I felt very welcomed to the Rowaiye family and I added more brothers and sisters. You were truly a role model to me and for this I give thanks for your life Grandma Ikeja! Oh, who will I call Grandma Ikeja now? Who can fill the vacuum you have created?

We prayed together several times on several issues. You had hope against all hopes! Tears in my eye for I am really missing you and smile on my facing for you have gone to be with our Lord & Saviour. When we all get to heaven, what a day of rejoicing it will truly be! I am comforted by the Holy Spirit and the word of God.

Too many memories of your love and generosity to be remembered – you gave me fruits, drinks etc every time I came to see you – even when you were sick you still gave me drinks. Thank you for all the love, support encouragement and counsel. Your phrase – “come sit by my side pretty darling” will always be in my heart and I will surely continue the tradition.

Thank you for your service to God. Thank you for service to Humanity. You are celebrated, not only today but always!.

Enjoy the bosom of the Lord!

Lekan Balogun
Son in law

Life goes on in phases. Even after it ends, there is another phase. To some, death could be tragic. But when an honest and upright person like my Grandma passes on, it’s like a graduation. Graduations are bittersweet. Sad because we will miss the 'graduant', and joyful because we know she is finally getting to enjoy the ultimate reward of her hard work and service to others- a blissful forever in heaven.

I miss you Grandma. I will never forget all that you taught me. For one - food discipline; nothing more than two cubes of sugar with garri. I remember the day you told me we were eating yam. I was so happy till I realized it was yam and salted oil. You explained to me that I should always consciously do things to remember the poor so that I don't get caught up in the multitude of my blessing and forget that God, not my efforts gave them to me. I loved your signature rice and pepper sauce (everyone except me called it stew) which made me drink litres of water, and then run back for more of the tasty rice and 'stew'. It was endless in supply every Sunday.

Grandma, your house was my constant hangout on Sundays after Church for obvious reasons. I remember when just before I entered Secondary school, I told you that I hadn't bought a wrapper for school yet. You told me not to worry and gave me the iro of one of your best outfits. I am proud to say that I used that wrapper in school to sleep, iron and even as a make-shift pillow till my graduation. How can I forget the way you looked at me with such adoration when I told you I won the first prize in JSS2. You told me your head was swelling and I should press it down.

There are so many wonderful memories I have of you. I will never forget any of them. You are - not were (because she lives on in heaven) a truly exceptional woman. It is truly an honour to be the grandchild of a woman like Mrs. Rowaiye. I'm not sad that you've gone because I know you lived a long fruitful life in service to God and humanity, and deserve the very best - Peace. Perfect and undisturbed peace. Life can't offer that. Only God can, and he did.

Rest in peace Grandma. I love you very much. So much. Too much. I am proud to be you grandchild.

Ayooluwa Balogun (aka Teniola)
Grand daughter

BALOGUN FAMILY
"A mother is not a person to lean on, but one that makes leaning unnecessary" -Dorothy Canfield Fisher
On Mother's Day about 12 years ago, I sent the above quote to my Mum as an SMS, because it was very apt and summarised her impact in my life. Just a couple of years ago, she reminded me of the quote verbatim. She took it to heart and never forgot.

She taught me to be independent, to consider 360* impact when taking decisions, to handle everything (responsibilities and assignments) decisively, excellently and conclusively.

She always had the wisest practical answers and solutions to all our challenges. She always knew how to handle every situation. I remember when I came to her with an ethical dilemma I faced when I just started working. I was expecting her to tell me what to do, but she gave me a word of advice which has become a mantra I live by (and even passed on to my children) - "Never do anything you will not be proud to shout from the mountain". Talk about integrity - she walked the talk.

She was resilient, strong, resourceful, tactful, structured, organised, thorough, super intelligent, hands-on and would successfully challenge any engineer, auto-mechanic, technician or artisan on the best practices of his profession. Yet she was straight forward and uncomplicated.

A prudent home keeper she was. She groomed my siblings and I in 'shopping from the source'. Each of us can draw detailed maps of the markets in Mile 12, Oke-Arin, Mushin, Iddo, Ijora Olopa - telling you precisely where to get each item at the best price. After every shopping, she accounted for every kobo. She made out of each of us seamstresses, bakers, handy she-men, prudent house keepers, hair dressers... you name it.

She taught us to be independent, love one another, look good & dress well all the time. She was always giving out money and helping others.

A truly beautiful woman - inside out, yet she never used lipstick and all the works.
A power dresser (agun t'aso lo), whose carriage commanded attention and respect - even in the least expensive attire, she would look like a million dollars.

Today, I dare say I am a thorough bred woman, because she showed me the way. She is a role model to me, my siblings, and the many others that she has inspired to greatness.

Her voice echoes in my ears:
"K'on ra wo mi debe, mo ti lo!"
"Thanks ever so much, you are a darling!"
"Tara! Mind how you go! Be gooood!"

Tribute to My Grandmother

I sat on Grandma's laps - a place of comfort and refuge. No one could touch me there. I was safe. I was 5.

I sat on Grandma's laps - a place of unending love. I could ask for whatever I wanted - usually efo riro. I was 20.

Her love, her desire to continuously care for and see to the wellbeing of others, is the imprint she has left in all who knew her.

Sleep well Grandma. You will forever be in my heart.

Kroma Wenike-Briggs (Jnr) (Tola)
Grand son

Words cannot describe in entirety how wonderful you are. How you corrected me with the cane where necessary and comforted me when I needed it. Your words were straight from the heart with all the best intentions. I remember sleeping on your bed and also hunting for goodies under the same bed. I will never forget the unending supply of food that was available every time your children and grandchildren stopped over either for a flying visit or for very important issues...or just to keep you company. You are always in my heart. You are the world’s bestest Grandma...and I thank God you are my Grandma! I LOVE YOU SO MUCH! Sun ré o

Mina Wenike-Briggs
Grand daughter

WENIKE-BRIGGS FAMILY
A Tribute to my mother

With all that went on, I find it hard to write this tribute. You were a woman of such strength and character. 

I'm glad I cared for you to the very end, even then I keep asking myself if there was something I missed... But I come up blank. I cared for you just like the children I treat, trying to guess your every mutter, your every sigh.

I'm glad, that having done all, we are still standing tall. Everyone is proud of us, and I know you are too.

Many a time, you thought we wouldn't make it, but your constant prodding, sleepless nights of worrying & praying, coupled with Stres-B-vite & Quiet Life, saw us through.

We have all done you proud, as you always wanted us to.
We are rejoicing, for we have the witness that you are in a far better place.
We'll miss you mummy, but you'll always be on our hearts.

Toyin Wenike-Briggs
Daughter

Words cannot describe my feelings. I remember grandma, I remember her voice calling my name when she saw me. Every time I visited, she would greet me saying "Jayde Jayde". I remember the first time I drove to visit grandma alone, she was so shocked. I will never forget how she said "mind how you go" when I was leaving. That was Grandma's famous phrase. Grandma always took care of us, she never accepted that we came to visit and didn't eat. "How can you eat before coming?"
I love you Grandma and I will always miss you.

Jadesola Oshisanya
Grand daughter

Tribute to an Indefatigable Mother

Mother, It won't be easy, you'll think it strange when I try to explain how I feel that I still need your love after all that you have done;
Pillar and staff of the weak, Mother of all orphans, Mother most caring, Seat of 'Comfort', Mother most Radiant;
You matched your names like a promise; and became a true testimony to their meanings - Comfort, Adunola, Ibidunni.
As for fortune, and as for fame you never invited them in; they found you because you were worth it but we know all you really desired was the most important role, to be a Mother.
Sleep well as you join those who envisioned your greatness.

-'lai Oshitokunbo Oshisanya.
Son in law

OSHISANYA FAMILY

Tribute to Mummy, Mrs, Comfort Adunola ROWAIYE (her initials: CAR),

These words, sung by Celine Dion, aptly capture what you are to me:
‘You gave me wings and made me fly …You said no star was out of reach. You stood by me and I stood tall …..I’m everything I am, because you loved me!’
Mummy, you must have been ordained from above to mother many children. That is why, having mothered your siblings, you started your own family with twins: Toyin and I; and others followed in line. You brought many, many others under your wing, charting out our futures successfully. We didn't take to insurance like you – but you "insured" us all. You were always there for us, unconditionally. Mummy, you fed us with the best life experiences and memories. You are an indelible memory.
What do I take most from your mentoring? Your energy, your nurturing disposition, your dynamism, your optimism – no problem was too great for you to solve (“Bim ma ti se we o” was your popular phrase, to express your concern and anxiety); your detailed analyses of every situation, and your sayings:
“a candle loses nothing by lighting another “
‘hard work doesn’t kill, it only makes you stronger’
That is what your life was all about. Now I understand what it is like to be, above all things, a Mother.
I will never stop missing you.

Your daughter,
Tai Oshisanya

Mrs Comfort Adunola IBIDUNNI Rowaiye
IBIDUNNI, as the name implies, catered for the family. She was my sister, my mother, my confidant, my counsellor, my ... MY ALL.

I didn't know my mother, and unfortunately there were no photographs of her. Also my father died before I was 10 years old. All of a sudden at a tender age, she became a mother to her siblings and a niece. With God on her side, she was able to play the role successfully.

Unfortunately, out of her 3 siblings, I am the only one left to appreciate her today. It must be on record that without GOD and my sister, I might not have become anything today, or probably could have died.

For the last time effort we meet our Creator, who loves us both, I would like to say a big thank you Mother. I promise to take care of the children you left behind - God helping me.

On behalf of Grace, Bernice and I, Beatrice, I would like to say we love you, but we know that God loves you more, having called you to HIMSELF. I love and appreciate you dearly, dear Mother.

Rest in HIS blossom, till we meet at the Master's feet to part no more.

Adieu my dear Mother.

Beatrice Taiwo Adegbite
Sister

My Adun,

You were a woman of valour and virtue.
A remarkable wife and mother

I wonder why you left before me. I am older and was praying that I would go ahead of you; but now, you are gone.
I will surely miss you.

May your gentle soul rest in perfect peace.

Your husband,
Tunji Rowaiye

SEGUN JACOBSON FAMILY
REFLECTIONS OF A TRULY REMARKABLE WOMAN
MY DEAREST MOTHER, MRS. COMFORT ADUNOLA ROWAIYE

My jewel of inestimable value by any standard and spiritual woman, what I am today I owe it to you. You were selfless, caring and generous many times to fault, all these I learnt from you. All praises and thanks to God.

I remembered that one phone call to Oba Otudeko, that gave me a job at Honeywell Oil and Gas Limited when all hopes of getting the job were lost. And so many other things you did to better my life which are too numerous for me to count, mummy I say thank you.

When everybody gave up on me, you never did, you always tell me, "You can do it, my son you can make it. All you need is just a little push and I will always be here to push you through success"; these were her words. Also when I lost hope in myself and felt like ending it, you were there and the interesting part was that you never made me feel less a man. You made my life so beautiful and all that I am today you made it possible with the help of the Almighty God. I am happy and blessed to have you as a mother. "YOU ARE THE BEST MUM IN THE WORLD".

You put others before self, you kept and looked after everybody in the family, I celebrate you mummy, for the most fruitful life you lived and for the assurance I have that you are in a much better place than this world, having surrendered your life to Jesus Christ and given yourself to service in the Lord's vineyard and advice to humanity during your life time.

Precious in the sight of the Lord, is the death of His saints (Ps.116:15).
I miss you as you sleep on in the Lord, till we meet to part no more.

Your son,
Oluwasegun Jacobson

Sweet indeed is the memory of the righteous. You came, you saw and you conquered. May the Lord grant you eternal rest.

Dr Kehinde Obasola

Dear Pastor Tutu,
News of the transition of Mama has just come to our attention and we wish, by this mail to express our heartfelt condolences over her passage.
As a trail blazer and an icon in her choosen field of endeavor, Mama has no doubt touched countless lives over the years and left indelible marks in the sands of time.
From our association with you, there is no doubt that your warm quiet and unassuming personality, passion for excellence, dint of hard work and the manner in which you crave for fresh challenges even going the extra mile, are all traits that have been passed across over the years, from her.
She has lived a great life and left behind a befitting legacy. Her demise therefore is not one for sorrow but indeed a celebration of life.
Be that as it may, the first few days even weeks are usually the most difficult in the adjustment of her absence, and the void left and we pray that you are strengthened at this time with might in your inner man and be comforted with the comfort of the Holy Spirit. It is well, Pastor. God bless you.
Sincerely,

Pastor Tosin Omigie

Mummy Rowaiye was a legend! She had the strength of seven diligent men. Tall, pretty, elegant, principled, yet blessed with an unassuming demeanor but highly intelligent. Mama was a fashionista! She spoke English with so much eloquence and could immediately switch to her native mother tongue with rhythmic undulation typical of a well schooled 'Omo alare'. Not many rich and/or wealthy are blessed with such combination of poise, finesse and panaché - short of saying that they don't do Women like Mummy Rowaiye anymore! We spoke more often after I learnt of her sickness in 2010 and we exchanged calls from time to time until Lagos and it's challenges started placing more demands on me. Anytime I called, her typical response to me was 'Omo Mi' (My Child). I will definitely miss her. May her soul continue to rest in the Lord.

Debo Eboda

“Mama Rowaiye could open doors with just phone call in her lifetime. The influence she wielded was phenomenal and we witnessed it. One of the few people that people will always look forward to get any request from. May her soul RIP.”
Above is copied from Adebayo Eboda as I agree totally!
After pharmacy internship at UCH in Ibadan, I told my dad I was going to look for NYSC job in a company in Lagos. I will stay with Tutu - we were class mates in Ife.
Gisting with her mum the day I arrived, I told her my desire. The next morning she gave me a note to the then director of Pfizer Pharmaceuticals in Oregun, Lagos. Tutu was surprised. She said her mum never mentioned she knew any such person.

On behalf of OUR LADY OF APOSTLES SECONDARY SCHOOL, YABA OLD STUDEBTS ASSOCIATION (OLAOSA), we extend our deepest sympathies to our sisters, immediate past Executives of our Alma-Mata, Mrs Tai Oshisanya (nee Rowaiye) and Dr. Kehinde Wenike-Briggs (nee Rowaiye) over the loss of their dear mother, Madam Comfort Adunola Rowaiye.
May the fond memories of mama’s life bring comfort, courage, peace and love to the entire family as we pray for the soul of the faithful departed to continue to rest in perfect peace.
Please accept our heartfelt condolences.

Mrs Josephine Effah-Chukwuma
President, OLAOSA

"Death leaves a headache which is healed by no one;
      Love leaves a memory which no one can steal"
The shocking news of the passing on of the Insurance Industry's "Lady of the Lake", MRS COMFORT ADUNOLA ROWAIYE was received by me as a betrayal of the faith I had in her health's recovery after my interaction with her in April 2016. Unfortunately, the planned follow-up visit was aborted by my having to travel out of the Country.
Indeed "yesterday is a memory, tomorrow is a mystery and today (only) is a gift." Although this saying enjoins us to make peace with it, one cannot but ruminate over the painful and unexplainable departure from us of such an amiable, easy going gentle giant of a dye-in-the-wood professional, genuinely endowed with high intellect and integrity.
MRS ROWAIYE lived a life of Sharing her endowments, knowledge, love and Christian virtues with those who were lucky to cross her multi-dimensional paths. Surely the Insurance Industry and the Church of God will particularly miss this joyful sharer whose life was dedicated to enriching the lives of others and bringing smiles to the faces of the needy.
MRS ROWAIYE was humility personified and humanity endowed. Our consolidation, in the adulterated saying of a sage, is that she is only gone ahead of us; not just left us behind and although we can't be with her right now, she lives in our hearts and minds.
Adieu, our adorable...smiling gift!

Dr Remi Alo.

The news came to me with a heavy heart. We in the Ekundayo s family have lost a sister so dear. A priceless and true friend. A woman of integrity. A friend close to my heart. A friend who stood by me in difficult times. A sister who was there to share her time and wisdom for my children when I was not there. A rare gem to the core. We call ourselves ore mi. May her loving soul rest in perfect peace. I mourn her loss but I know she is in a better place. Iya rere, Ore mi Adun
Rowaiye, sun re.

Mrs Ekundayo.
Friend

TRIBUTE TO A GREAT SISTER, MOTHER, FRIEND, COLLEAGUE, MRS ADUN ROWAIYE.
The death of Mrs Adun Rowaiye was received with shock. But this is indicative of the inevitable appointment we all have with our Creator. "Well she has gone to rest"
I resorted. My immense thanks to her sister and all her children for the love and care showered on her during her Mortal life on earth.
Believing that God Almighty is the Ultimate Judge I would like to say that Mrs
Adun Rowaiye was a humble, courteous, hard-working, kind, loyal and meticulous person! Meticulous Record Keeper!!
She was a channel of blessing to others. She left a legacy that is good for others to follow. She lived her life for God and Humanity. Always around for everyone who needed her help. THE GOOD LORD will surely bless and be with those she left behind.
I encourage the children to follow the good legacies left behind by this Great and Wonderful servant of God.
Finally Adun Rowaiye, "YOU HAVE FOUGHT A GOOD FIGHT, YOU LIVED A GOOD LIFE".
May your soul rest in Peace .AMEN.

Mrs Lola Kukoyi

My very dear and precious Rowaiye daughters/family members,
Please accept my heartfelt condolence on the demise of my beloved, reliable, energetic, charming, confidant, friend, PRECIL sister – Mrs C. A. Rowaiye. …I heard of the news of her departure to go to rest at the bosom of our Lord and saviour Jesus Christ, where she deserves to be! May God grant her eternal divine rest in Jesus mighty name, Amen!
As for you her children, I commend you all into the safe hands of our heavenly father who will forever bless and protect you and all of yours 24/7, prosper you and reward you a trillion times over for the superlative way you all took care of your Mom from start to finish! May your own children too love & take care of you all, Amen.
God be with you all, Amen. I love you all dearly.

Prof (Mrs) M. Olu Odusina.

My very dear and precious Rowaiye daughters/family members,
Please accept my heartfelt condolence on the demise of my beloved, reliable, energetic, charming, confidant, friend, PRECIL sister – Mrs C. A. Rowaiye. …I heard of the news of her departure to go to rest at the bosom of our Lord and saviour Jesus Christ, where she deserves to be! May God grant her eternal divine rest in Jesus mighty name, Amen!
As for you her children, I commend you all into the safe hands of our heavenly father who will forever bless and protect you and all of yours 24/7, prosper you and reward you a trillion times over for the superlative way you all took care of your Mom from start to finish! May your own children too love & take care of you all, Amen.
God be with you all, Amen. I love you all dearly.

Prof (Mrs) M. Olu Odusina.

Our sincere condolences to you, your family and Pastor Lekan on the departure to glory of your Mom. We will all miss her. She is now with the Lord.
May the God of all comfort be with you and the family at this moment. The Lord is with you.


On behalf of all the Baloguns in Detroit, New York, Dallas, Atlanta, Baltimore,
New Jersey, Pittsburgh, Houston, Denver and Cincinnati, we love you!!!

There is time for everything... Eccl. 3:1
Thank God for the life of our mother. She lived a good, fulfilled life, and saw the family grow and blossom. Surely she left a vacuum, but God is in control!
Her sense and spirit of unity will surely keep you all together now and ALWAYS.
May her legacy to all be fond memories of the times shared with her, her wise counsel, support and goodness to all that come her way. May God grant you all the grace to rejoice her everlasting PEACE! Amen.

Mrs. Prince
(Ajele Jacobson's mum)

Dear ma'am:
The chambers of Lai Oshitokunbo Oshisanya commiserates with you and your family (the Rowaiye family) for the sad loss of the family matriarch.
It is our prayers that God shall give the family succour & fortitude to bear this loss. Amen.
Kind regards.
Sincerely,

Miss Chidi K. Oduji
On behalf of Sam Oshisanya & Co
Chambers of Lai Oshitokunbo Oshisanya

Mama,
We love you for your humanitarian ground, cheerfulness and your Godly humility. Your assistance to the Priests and their family is appreciated. Your contributions to the work of God in Churches is worthy of emulation.

Ven. & Mrs Oyedokun
Vicar, St John’s Ang Church

I celebrate you now and always because I had always admired you from afar from childhood.
Great mother of mothers, friend, confidant, an epitome of the 4’B’s of womanhood
Brain
Beauty
Background
Behaviour
Thank you for encouraging me to marry Lola even though you knew me , and how you stood by us during our marriage, in your own words ‘’Iwo Omo mi, Lola Omo mi, I trust you to handle her and I know you can handle her’’. And you prayed and blessed us. Thank you for the love you showed me, Mama Row, Mama Unity, Sis Adun (my mum calls you that)
Rest in peace my favourite of all times


Your son,
NIYI ONASANYA.

I celebrate you now and always because I had always admired you from afar from childhood.
Great mother of mothers, friend, confidant, an epitome of the 4’B’s of womanhood
Brain
Beauty
Background
Behaviour
Thank you for encouraging me to marry Lola even though you knew me , and how you stood by us during our marriage, in your own words ‘’Iwo Omo mi, Lola Omo mi, I trust you to handle her and I know you can handle her’’. And you prayed and blessed us. Thank you for the love you showed me, Mama Row, Mama Unity, Sis Adun (my mum calls you that)
Rest in peace my favourite of all times


Your son,
NIYI ONASANYA.

Tribute to a Godly Mum - Mrs C A Rowaiye

My dear Aunty& Mother of noble character,
I met you on 4th Sept 1984, at the 21st birthday of my lovely 'Aburos'- Tai & Kehinde. You warmly accepted me as a 'sister' into the family. I celebrate you as a rare mother, with deep & happy memories, especially for your words of wisdom. You lived well and honourably too. I thank you for always being there till the very end. I know you are now at a better place.
Sleep well my sweet Aunty.

Oyin Rowaiye Mrs
(Sister-in-law)

TRIBUTE TO MY "SHE-FATHER" - THE WOMAN OF WOMEN

A Chip off the old block, quintessential Oduwobi, with a build exactly like her father, Grandpa Sennuga. To you, I remained a kid son not a nephew all your life, but to me, my " she-father", teacher, mentor, coach, confidant, never an aunt. You reinforced in me the Oduwobi ethos, brought me (along with Aunty Tai, your Junior Sister) into, taught me Insurance even in the most unlikely places and modelled leadership for me to manifest. In my season of long knives laced with palpable betrayals, you were my "mother hen" and in the ensuing long spell of adversity you were there, always reassuring me there would be a comeback despite what in your own words was a "harrowing experience", calculated and orchestrated not only to disorientate but to completely derail and plunge me into oblivious irrelevance. Loyal almost to a fault, you believed blood is thicker, never ephemeral and more binding than riches, position and prestige.
You never buckled even while under enormous pressure to back off me. Thank you ma, for buying into and believing in me, remaining upbeat about me and my future, till the end. You are not one to be ever forgotten, definitely not by me. How I wish you would have tarried just a bit longer! But then, that is neither given to you nor to any one for that matter to decide but only to HIM, our maker.
You lived very well, you accompanied very much. That in itself is heart-warming. So I am not one to mourn but to glorify God for the blessings HE bestowed on me through you and to thank HIM for calling you into a well-deserved and joyful rest. Bye for now my "she father", a woman of immense courage, brains and beauty.

Bode Oduwobi
Nephew

The World’s BEST mother in love sleeps on...

Mummy you instructed us not to cry but the tears won't stop rolling down my cheeks. These tears are not that of mourning but of Joy that you have finally gone to be with Jesus where you will no longer feel any pain nor sorrow.
Can words describe you?
How do I explain how meeting you made me more resolute to be a superb mother in law to my future daughters & son in law.
I came in to the family and automatically became a child not a wife.
For every child I had all I did was breastfeed them, other issues you sorted out.
Your bed (hmmm...) for me was always a resting place after the hustling and bustling of Lagos I slept at least for an hour with you watching by my side before we start the gisting sessions, your bed was a "bonding and no inhibition space" yet under that same bed was another colony for the grandchildren, they had lots of goodies under grandma's bed.
I was never afraid to tell you anything, I didn't have to cook up stories, didn't have to be careful around you. I was very free to be myself,
I remember many words you said to me but this I will share
"Emi mi” as you fondly called me, “amongst all my children you are the most careless I know what you can do and what you cannot do, but I love you that way"
What mother in law says that to a carefree daughter in law.
You were always so ready to teach on any aspect of life as well as share your own experiences so we don't make mistakes. Major lesson I learnt is
"75% of women are in psychiatrist home because of their husbands and 75% of these women were taken there by their husbands who in turn marry someone else"
Sincere to the core that's who you are.
I heard you pray, you mentioned every one of us children, spouses and grandchildren to God not leaving any out. I saw you take each child's burden as yours... You were an embodiment of love and help, our pillar of strength.
I could go on, even my friends and family testifies that you were good to me what more can I say?
Thank you mummy, I love you I will always love you ma.
‪#‎worldsbestmotherinlove ‪#‎writingthistributehurtsbadly ‪#‎thankGodallthesame

Ajele Jacobson
Daughter In Law

Mrs Comfort Adunola ROWAIYE, the Insurance Industry's "Lady of the Lake" was such an amiable, easygoing gentle giant of a dye-in-the-wood professional, graciously endowed with high intellect and integrity.
She lived a life of SHARING her endowments, love, knowledge and deep Christian virtues with those who were lucky to cross her multi-dimensional paths. Surely the Insurance Industry and the Church of God will, in particular miss this joyful sharer and giver whose life was dedicated to enriching the lives of others and putting smiles on the faces of the needy.
Mrs Rowaiye was humility personified and humanity endowed.
Adieu, our adorable....smiling gift!
Dr Remi Alo.

Words cannot describe in entirety how wonderful you are. How you corrected me with the cane where necessary and comforted me when I needed it. Your words were straight from the heart with all the best intentions. I remember sleeping on your bed and also hunting for goodies under the same bed. I will never forget the unending supply of food that was available every time your children and grandchildren stopped over either for a flying visit or for very important issues...or just to keep you company. You are always in my heart. You are the world's bestest Grandma...and I thank God you are my Grandma! I LOVE YOU SO MUCH! Sun ré o.

TRIBUTE TO MY DARLING MOTHER .....IYE MI

MRS. COMFORT ADUNOLA ROWAIYE

Mummy, mummy, mummy....your response was always 'yes Tolu, what do u want this time!!!' Mum for once, I would confess I want you right by my side, a mother hen never to go away.

Saying I will miss you is an understatement. I look all around and see you everywhere... In the confidence I portray, the resilient way I face challenges.

Being an ifanu ( last born) never worked against me, rather it was more beneficial as I got to understudy you in your prime.

You radiated confidence - you had this saying that ' Eni to ba ri mi to ba so pe ko ri eniyan, se o fe ki Olorun so kale wa ni' ( Anyone that see me and says they have not seen a dignitary, do they want God to come down and see them) with this saying, i saw you walk into places with much confidence and poise and got the desired result. Even with mighty NEPA/PHCN..lollll

Your style, precision, attention to details is one yet to be beaten.

Haa, mum ur style sha...Your signature gele style always stood out. You had a style for tying aso oke and another for gele proper.
When going for an event, and I felt you were over dressed.. i would say ' mummy ti ne yen wen o ma ti ju ti oloku lo' (the dressing of the invitee is more than the person than the organiser of the event) you would look at me and say with a big smile and pose 'my darling, I am Mrs. Rowaiye'.

Mum, the woman I am today is as a result of you. You drove all fears away, you believed in me even when I wasn't at my best. Your silence when I seamingly fell short, taunted me to achieve more. At those times I wish you will just shout and scold me, but you were just too over understanding.

A listening ear was one thing you had. You were a mother hen that dotted on all her many children (biological or not), even my friends can testify I had an AMAZON as a mother.

Your bed was my haven. That's where countless counsel took place. Your listening ear was activated. And mum our gists were always gangster.. no pretence or colour coding.*wink*wink.

Your words of wisdom were da bomb. As I grew older, I had a better understanding of your words, and that brought me constantly back to you. It was a sunday visit that was never to be missed.

One of your many wisdom I will pass unto my girls is ' Never give yourself to any man cos of monetary things; life is a phase and it's all a matter of time, when you get to the phase he is in ,you will realise what he had offered you was a miserably small part of what he had- which you can now afford xx10. My darling, it's just a matter of time'.

Thank you so much for your prayers mum, you would pray for each and everyone of us calling out our names one by one. Your prayers worked mum... how else would I have turned out so right...

The tears can't just stop rolling out. In your words ' Thanks ever so much' Mum.

I used to say countless- I'm going -before i actually got up and left for home. You did same this time around. You fought the fight to stay on longer amidst all the pain, but you still had to go.

Mum, i let you go to rest in peace. And I say your words back to you, as you told us when we are leaving the house - 'Tara, be good, don't do what I wouldn't do'

Love you mum, my one and only IYE MI.

Tolulope