It was hard to believe,the day I heard the sad news but I have come to terms with it.My dear Grande Seur,go and rest because you've done your part on earth.You will forever be missed.RIPP. 
Your Petit frere,
Uncle Ebai Enokpa"Plaque".

For many who were not aware of her health challenges, her demise came as a devastating shock. Few are those who combine passion, dynamism and selflessness as exceptionally as she did, and even though it is totally unreasonable, one doesn't just associate death with people like that. Whether we do or not, however, death has triumphed - temporarily - over her as it will inevitably over all of us mere mortals, and all we can say is: Rest, sister Marie! Rest from your labours, valiant Besongabang Queen, and may your good deeds go ahead to help open the pearly gates of heaven for you!

Sis Maria
You gave life your best shot. We had fun growing up, especially our days at tea-times and at CCAST Bambili.

Memories, yes. We shall see you again.

General Ma,
Your kindness and Love, will forever be appreciated. Rest in Peace Mama.
Manyi Joyce

Dear Auntie Marie!

I am indeed very saddened to hear of your demise! And the news came to me as a shock because I had no idea you have been battling this dreaded “C” disease!

I haven’t seen you in a long while, but I can never forget your bubbly spirit, infectious smile and the affection you showed to my mom, Mrs. Helen Ayuk Anyangwe, who was your teacher in PSS Besongabang. You would stop by the house often in GRA BAMENDA to see her. You would invite her/us over to your home when you were Prison’s Director in BAMENDA. Your love for my mom was priceless.

My deepest condolences to your husband, all your children and grandchildren, and to the entire ABUNAW, Kwamu-NANA and ETCHU FAMILIES!

Rest well aunty Marie (Or Maria as my mom called you)!

Also writing on behalf of my mom!

Annet Mbeng Enonchong

MUM'S DAUGHTER AND NIECE

My adorable, amazing, admirable, vibrant, charismatic, energetic, resilient, loyal, inspiring and zestful aunty and mother is no more.
I have just remembered how lucky
I was to have known your love.
Your absence is like the sky spread over everything.
You are the most beautiful memory kept locked inside my heart.
The last time I visited you with the kids in Buea, you assured me nothing will happen to you. You said you will overcome sickness and enjoy all your grand children.
Mummy you fought with your last energy to ensure that Human rights are promoted and protected nationally, regional and internationally.
Your demise on March 8 which is the international women's day was a proof of your commitment to the course.
We love you so much mummy but God loves you most.
The tears we shed for your departure are not a sign of weakness but rather a sign of a pure heart.
Adieu mummy.

By Mrs Dorothy Otto Ebai (A friend)

TRIBUTE TO A WOMAN OF VALOR:

Only the heart that loves knows the sorrow of separation.

Sister Maria as I fondly called you. You were a big sister to me as far back as 1970’s. You caught my attention on a Youth Day were you cleared almost all the prizes as an athlete back in primary school. For over 50years of close relationship you never switched from playing the big sister role.

You were a woman of many attributes. A unique personality, courageous, brave, determined, compassionate, loving, witty, unassuming and stylish.

Your love to all was immeasurable. You made everyone who came close to you feel important.

Ohh! How I miss your warm radiant smile, dancing and your witty jokes.

Sister, your generosity knew no bounds. Even on your sick bed in the hospital you opted to pay the transport fares of those who visited you. You were very unassuming and simple. In-spite your social status you embraced all equally.

You were passionate about human rights especially the rights of women. A champion of women’s empowerment, organizing talks on radio every year and you passed-on on that fateful day “Women’s Day” to mark your fight for women’s empowerment.

I will miss the special way you called me ‘Njongakoh Mamikong’.

Sister you have fought a great fight, you have finished the race and you have kept the faith.

Rest in Perfect Peace ‘Mforgore’ as the Bayang’s call great women.

           

“A noble soul devoted to the service of something greater, to her family, to her friends, and her faith.”
    “ Formidable and Resolute
     Temperate and Measured
      Fearless and Genuine
      Caring and Compassionate
       Generous beyond Measure
       Selfless without Equal
       Sophisticated and Eloquent
        Experienced and Cultured
        Without Pretense.”
         REST WELL BIG SISTER!!

          MAMA's ROOM MATE

I LACK WORDS TO DESCRIBE HOW I FEEL!!!
SO, IT IS TRUE YOU ARE REALLY GONE.
A REALITY STILL TO BE TRUE.
DIFFICULT TO UNDERSTAND WHAT HAS HAPPENED!!!

MAMA LEFT US, AND NOW YOU HAVE LEFT ME!!!
YOU SUCCUMBED ALL THE PAINS.
YOUR FAITH WAS VERY STRONG.
YES, YOU FOUGHT A BRAVE FIGHT.
BUT YOU FINISHED THE RACE EARLY.

YOUR SMILES AND SWEET TALKS WILL BE MISSED.
YOUR PRAISES, LOVE AND CONCERNS GONE, GONE, GONE WITH THE WIND.
WE LAUGHED AND CRIED TOGETHER.
OH, WHAT A WORLD FULL OF TEARS AND LONELINESS!!!

I MISS YOU SOOOOOOO MUCH GRANDE SOEUR!!!!
YOU WILL FOREVER BE REMEMBERED.
GREETINGS TO MAMA, YOUR ROOM MATE.
REST, REST, REST, TILL WE MEET AGAIN!!!

FOREVER IN MY HEART!!!
GOD KNOWS BEST!!!
ADIEU AND GOOD NIGHT!!!
            YOUR PETITE SOEUR
            LADY EMMA LEBAGA

Mum, we love you but God loved you most! I came to Cameroon Feb 19th, and as usual we would go out to the field to help abused rejected and underprivileged girls. Mum joined me to persecute or bring justice to the victims. We also served the prisons under her organization.
On a personal level, she was more than my consultant.. She is a true Hero!

On a personal level.. She was my mom.
In this African society when it's difficult to bond with a mother in personal life issues... Mum made sure I was heard. She opened up to me on topics that a girl should only talk with trusted friends. I have lost my bio mum but she was one I could actually open up to. Mama loved me, she loved our girls, she loved people.

She was a Queen❤️. She often said.. IRENE.. make sure you always look good. And, ma slay mama walked this earth like that queen. Always very intentional.

When I came to Cameroon, I was blessed to meet and talk with her the day before she was taken to ICU. I am forever grateful for Egbe Nana and the family for allowing me see her despite the fact that visits were restricted per Doctor's orders.

This award you see above, she was to receive it at our girl's 10th anniversary event for empowering us... But... GOD... She left us a week before the event.

I will tell you all, she was ready. She asked me to pray with her. And, toughest prayer, we hugged and prayed. She reminded me when I left to keep praying and specifically repeated that she loves Jesus

I am at peace and I share this for you to be at peace...
As time goes on, I will share more about her. She lives in all of us... We should hold the banner up and remember her for the love she carried.

I've learned alot from this bitter reality. Life is fragile and so we should love unconditionally because we don't know tomorrow.

I have only love in my heart when I think of how she loved. The reality of her being in the mortuary right now hurts but what is highlighted is how she loved and that is what I think most people close to her feel. She was deep... The person who holds your hand when you two walk. You don't assume that she loves you.

Let's rejoice for a completion of assignment. She lived her purpose... Let me not start a chapter on the Career woman she was. I will save this for later... I have her full interviews and will edit them and share here when I return to the States.

Let's rejoice for the Queen will reign for ever❤️

Love you forever mum!

Mommy General AKA Mommy Marie Abunaw Etengeneng Nana!

You were a beautiful soul inside and outside. A very happy and contented woman with a bubbly personality. A beautiful woman with a beautiful smile. Mommy General was a woman of integrity and so humble. She was there for everyone wether you were rich, poor, bad or even a prisoner who had committed a crime.
You were always dancing and ready to celebrate every minute you were able too!
I remember meeting you years ago in Buea when we were on vacation with my late Uncle Martin and Aunt Evelyne Njok Ayuk and the family. We had come to Buea to spend time with our family when my younger brother Johnny got ill and was admitted to hospital in Buea. I will never forget that we were in hospital with Johnny. You showed up in your uniform. Mommy General came straight from work to the hospital. I thought that was very thoughtful of you.
Mommy General, you were always so thoughtful, kind and generous. Whenever you heard my Mother was visiting Buea you would cook and bring so much food and the household would enjoy your legendary culinary cuisine.
I remember seeing photos of when my Late Aunt Barrister Helen Ebai passed on. You participated actively in Mommy Helen’s funeral arrangement that took place and even during the funeral celebrations.
God Bless you and your kind heart.
I am so glad you spent quality time with all your children in December 2023 in Cameroon. I know you were tired and you knew all the children and grandchildren will be okay so you knew it was time to go and rest.

You lived a good life and you are definitely going to Heaven. Watch over your beautiful children from up above.

It is Well Mommy!!!
Rest in Perfect Peace Mommy General!!!!
Until we all meet again!!!!!

On Behalf of the Njang Ayuk Family.

An Unforgettable Story of Love and Sacrifice: Tribute to My Beloved Mommy!

My Dearest Mommy, My Cherie Nana, Our Mummy General, Our Darling Mummy Ekong Noh,
I'm writing with teary eyes. Your life was a testament to the power of unconditional love and the strength that lies in selflessness. Through stories shared, actions observed, and lessons taught, you've gifted me with the wisdom of selfless giving, the courage to believe, and the knowledge that love knows no bounds. Your commitment to my security, happiness, and dreams has been the guiding light of my journey, instilling in me the resilience to always face the future with hope. Even when differences have colored our paths at times, they've been strokes on the canvas of your love.

The void left by your absence is profound, a testament to the depth of the bond we shared. Who will softly call me, “Shea, Shea oh”? Each day without you is a reminder of the magnitude of my loss, enveloping me in a sorrow that words can scarcely convey. Yet, in this deep grief, I find solace in the memories we shared and the love that forever binds us.

Your love was my pillar, shaping my aspirations and guiding me towards fulfillment; supporting my journey as an engineer, equity and justice advocate, artist, bridge-builder, and all that I am today. Your love heals, empowers, and equips me to face the world.

I'll forever hold dear the sacrifices you've made, notably during the production of the "Ekong Noh (A Mother's Love)'' music video, a song that resonates with your essence and has become a cherished melody between us and for so many others. It embodies your spirit of sacrifice, a mother's love in its purest form. - How you silently endured your pain, and participated in my production, to see me succeed and see mothers around the world honored, celebrated, and appreciated in their lifetimes.

As we honor your life, I'm reminded that the love of a mother is not just for a day but for every moment. Your legacy continues in the lessons of love and sacrifice you've imparted. As I honor you today, I pledge to live by the values you've instilled in me, refining and building on them, cherishing your memory not just today, but every day.

Mommy, your passing on International Women's Day—an emblem of your lifelong advocacy for rights and justice—marks not an end but a continuation of your legacy through those you've inspired. You've taught us that a mother's love, your love, transcends time and space.
A Mother's Love, EVERYDAY!
Mothers’ Day is EVERYDAY!
A Mother's Love Never Dies!

With all the love I possess,
Your baby, Shea (Setche)

To our Kwamu-Nana cousins and uncle Kwamu-Nana- Please accept our deepest condolences

Aunty Maria,
It is so hard to say goodbye but we find peace knowing that you are resting well with our dad. Your presence illuminated our lives with love, kindness, and wisdom. You were such a guiding light, a source of strength, and a cherished soul.
With so much grace and resilience, you faced so many challenges with unwavering courage and a smile that could brighten even the darkest days. You had such a profound impact on everyone you met and have left us with a void yet a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories that will forever live on in our hearts.
Though you may no longer be with us in person, the memories you have left us with, will continue to inspire us, guiding us through life's journeys. Rest in perfect love, power and peace in the hands of the Lord our God.
You will Forever be missed.
From,
Laurette, Donald , Crystal, Eva & Lea Abunaw
(Your late-brother Lawrence Etchu Abunaw’s children)

To my brothers Ako and Njapuh, and the entire family. My deepest condolences. May Mama Rest in Peace. She touched the lives of many in ways only these people can attest. To me and my family we will ever be grateful for the support and help she provided to my mom, a widow with 7 kids. She immensely contributed in making us who we are today. She was indeed a champion for lifting women up especially those who needed a chance in life. Despite the pain of letting her leave for a brief moment to prepare a place for us in heaven, I would like to join you and your family to celebrate her kindness, legacy, and love. May she continue to live in our hearts. I will keep your family in my prayers during this time of sadness and remembrance.
May the Soul of the Faithful Departed through the Mercy of God Rest in Peace.

In this time of mourning, we gather to remember and celebrate the life of a remarkable woman, my Aunt Marie Abunaw. She was not just my mom's twin sister but a true trailblazer, a passionate advocate for women's rights, and a voice for prisoners who needed to be heard.

Aunt Marie approached life with a heart full of compassion, always treating others with the utmost respect and dignity. Her dedication to her family was unwavering, and she welcomed me into her heart as if I were her own son. She took the time to check in on me, to support me, and to show me genuine care and love.

Her legacy is one of courage, strength, and unwavering determination. As we mourn her passing, let us also remember the values she stood for and the causes she championed. Let us carry forward her torch of advocacy and compassion, ensuring that her work continues to make a difference in the world.

Aunt Marie, you will always hold a special place in our hearts. Your love, kindness, and unwavering spirit will continue to inspire us to be better, to do better. Rest peacefully knowing that your legacy lives on in our memories, our actions, and our hearts. We will always love you."
May this tribute serve as a heartfelt reflection of the impact my Aunt Marie had on your life and the lives of those around her.

In memory of Aunty Marie, a pillar of strength and kindness in our family. Your unwavering support and heartwarming presence at my traditional marriage will forever be treasured. Your laughter, wisdom, and love continue to inspire us each day. Though you may be physically absent, your spirit lives on in our hearts. Rest peacefully, dear Aunty Marie, knowing you are deeply loved and missed.

   My dear one and only Aunty Marie Nana, I can't believe that you are no more,"On March 8, Which was International Women's Day,When I woke up,I got a Call & Text message from Cameroon,heard the sad news of your demise,
  "Mummy Nana in the Year 1993 is a time I will never forget, You always Visited me in Mamfe Small John Holt when I was a kid.
"I remember many years ago at my home,you will play your Favorite song Missouwa,that was the name you and your Sister Aunty Rose were always calling me when I was dancing,
 "Aunty Whenever you see me,you always smile and call me your Personal person,
Sometimes you will call me Mami Nyanga" (Missouwa)
  "Aunty one great thing I remember about you is Your Constant Presence and support,showing up during our Occasions and Ceremonies" (Weddings,Birthdays, Bornhouse, Thanksgiving,Funeral &
many others)
  Aunty,you were so Lovely,Caring,Advisor, Welcoming,Stylish,
Fashioniable & Great Dancer,I will miss all the fun you showed me,
    Rest in Peace Aunty
  Will miss you dearly,
       Your Cousin
      Katrina Etchu
     (Mme Missouwa)

May her gentle soul rest in peace. You fought a good fight like the strong woman you have always been here on earth to all. You were a great wife to your husband and a wonderful and loving mother to your children and their friends. It is difficult for any of us to grasp the fact that you are gone to the Lord. But we know the Lord took you away from us because
he knows your work here on earth was done. Rest in the bosom of the Lord. We all love you, but God loved you the most. You will be greatly missed .

Though we are mourning ,there is jubilation in Heaven to receive such a Beautiful Soul.Asleep In Jesus Peaceful Rest Aunty Maria.There is, There was and There will be NONE LIKE YOU “ MANYU ROSE”.You will be greatly missed Aunty Maria.From Floretta Vega.

Dear Big Sis(General)

Your death sent shock waves down my spine. I miss you so much; your kindness; simplicity; inviting smile; big sister to the core; you constantly reminded us of your age; thanking God for it. A
devoted and Godfearing woman;philanthropist; good wife; counselor; mother; fashion model; Administrator; Beautiful sister; very friendly and humble.(Hardworker). I can go on and on but the one thing I have to say here is that I miss you so dearly. I am in disbelief but trust God’s decision to save you from pain. As I grief your departure in hope of a blessed resurrection morning, I surrender your family and a host of us ‘friends’ under God’s Canopy of grace for protection and comfort. Big Sis General (as I fondly called you, (your Ngoreh Ndek) bids you safe travel till we meet to part no more. Adieu!!!

My dearest Aunty Marie. My sweet mother. Mummy General. Mme Commandemant The entire Forzie family are heartbroken and left bereft by your passing/transition from this earth into the Heavenly realm. Our hearts are heavy but we thank God for the opportunity to have met and known you, and the impact you had on our lives as a beloved colleague to my late father, a close friend and confidante to my lovely mother, and the sweetest aunty to the Forzie children. Your untimely death has created a void in our hearts and some very big shoes to fill. We take comfort in knowing that you are free from pain and suffering, brought on by sickness and infirmity. We bless God for your life on earth and the privilege to have known you. Your generosity knew no boundaries nor limits. You were ever present to offer assistance and support in all matters that were brought to your attention. We will remember you for your strength and resilience. We will remember you as an effector of change as evidenced by your contributions to the penitentiary administration of Cameroon and the Safety and Welfare of Women and the girl child in Society. We will remember you as a lady of class and dignity, with your refined and polished ways/mannerisms. We will remember you as a philanthropist and cheerful giver especially to help the plight of widows and orphans. We will remember you as a trailblazer and a champion for change for causes that are important to the emancipation of women and a defender of women's rights. But above all we will remember you as our darling AUNTY MARIE. Journey well into the land beyond the skies. When all is said and done and the curtain closes to the rounds of thunderous applause, the good lord himself will say unto you, WELL DONE MY GOOD AND FAITHFUL SERVANT.
Agathe Forzie Abianju on behalf of the Forzie Family

My last letter to my BELOVED MOM
(Excerpt from a series of letters with true stories I recounted to cheer her up as she fights for her life.)
_____________________________________________
A note from the “Apple of Your Eye”:
A Beacon of Wisdom, A Pillar of Strength!

My Dearest Mommy,

These stories encapsulate some of the invaluable lessons I've learned from you – the joy of selfless giving, the power of belief, the profound sacrifices made in the name of love, and so much more. I carry with me the wisdom passed down through these experiences.

Reflecting on our journey, I realize that even when differences have colored our paths at times, they've been strokes on the canvas of your love. Your choices have consistently been rooted in a profound care for my security and stability, mirroring the same dedication you have for my happiness and dreams. Instilling confidence and resilience in me, your love has shaped me in ways I can't fully express.

I'm immensely grateful for your unwavering support and belief in my potential right from as long as I can remember you. Your love, guiding both my personal and professional aspirations, has shaped the person I am today. I step into the future with hope, knowing that your wisdom and strength will continue to illuminate my path.Thank you for being my constant pillar of strength and for steering me toward a path that promises more fulfillment and stability.

I will always cherish your love and sacrifices. Your demonstration of your love during my music video shoot for Ekong Noh , is one of the many sacrifices I can never repay. I'm thrilled that it's one of your favorite songs today and looking forward to dancing together again when you get back on your feet.

With much love and care, ❤️

Your baby, Shea (Setche)

_______________________

A Reminder:
A Mother's Love (Ekong Noh), Everyday!

These stories, woven together by threads of love, encouragement, and sacrifice, reflect the profound impact of my mother's presence in my life. From teaching me the value of cheerful giving to instilling confidence and resilience, her love has shaped me in ways I can't fully express.

As I reflect on her unwavering support and sacrifice, I am reminded that Mother's Day isn't just a single day of celebration; it's a daily opportunity to honor the mothers who tirelessly give of themselves. May we never be oblivious to the boundless love and sacrifices of mothers, and may we express our gratitude today and every day, honoring the extraordinary mothers who shape our lives.
--- Setche Kwamu-Nana

Why, oh... why???