"My deepest and heartfelt sympathy for this tragedy. Your wife was a wonderful lady and we will all miss her very much. I was so shocked to hear of her demise. She was well liked and respected by all of us who knew her. You have my deepest sympathy. She was a wonderful person and a joy to know. May God comfort you and other members of the family. May He bestow on you and others family members the fortitude to bear this irreplaceable loss. May her gentle soul rests in perfect peace. Adieu. I know you had a great marriage and loved her so much. I share your grief at this very difficult time."

Sister Omolara Sonoiki was a wonderful sister, friend, mother and wife. She loved spending time with her husband and family. She has a contagious laugh and always had a kind word to say to those around her, especially to the younger ones and also has a special care for the children. While her smiles was always a beacon of light to those around her.

I remembered when she joined our great family-Ore Ofe family, she usually keeps to herself and my findings revealed that she was studying everyone in the family and after her study, she will always say “I DO NOT HAVE TIME FOR NON-SENSE”.

Her Love for children baffles me so much as she makes provision for all the children anytime she is around. She was a goal getter, a barrier breaker, a mountain mover and a line crosser. She was always the best amongst her peers/group.

I know that you are in a better place now and that you will not want us to be sad but we should all take good care of all the children in the family and also help the sick in prayers to get healed.

We Love YOU but God Loves YOU more.

Good night my dear Sister.

Omolara Oyewole like i fondly call you. I did not believe you were gone even though a lot of people called me to break the news to me. I was waiiting for your brother to confirm to me (only then did i believe that you were actaully gone)  Uhmmmm Lara we started way back in secondary school, OLASS Ijebu Ode. We were 3, You, Lola Oworu_Ajakaye and i. I recalled then when we had to visit your sister, Sister Kemi Oyewole in Ogun State University and we were caught on the way that we left the hostel without permission.....we were in it together. You were simple and gentle. I told few of my colleagues that i'd brought to your shop to buy stuffs, they were all shocked and they reminisince your simplicity. You were such a darling........i can go on and on and on. Love you even in death. We will never forget your sweetness, May the Lord give succor to the beautiful kids & husband you left behind. Adieu dear friend.

Dear Mrs. Sonoiki,
Words cannot express how the thought of loosing a loved one like you hurts so much. A few times in life, you run into someone and you feel the peace, love and warmth that comes from inside them. you were one of those few people to me. you were an expression of the love and warmth I feel working with your husband. I pray my mentor and boss finds the strength to carry on in your absence (I know he will because God is his strength).
May your gentle soul rest in the bossom of the Lord. Amen

Aunty Lara,
In the few months I knew you, you came to me as a smart and intelligent woman who had a mastery of both business and home management. Your academic achievements endeared me more to you. In all of these accomplishments, you expressed a rare virtue of humility. Seeing you at your 40th Birthday, dazzling and giggling, none would have believed that you would leave us this soon. Though you have breathed the last, the memory of your effect would linger.

Our consolation is just that the unquestionable God loved you more than us and decided to call you to be by His side and rest from your labour.

Rest in Perfect Peace, Adieu.

Mrs Omolara Sonoiki.....

Iyawo Boss Mi! Gentle, Loving and Humble. All these virtues were experienced in my few encounters with you either at your store or whenever you came around the office. Your impeccable taste and love for quality is shown in the choice of clothes you stocked at DRESSENCE. You were a visible support and source of strength for my Boss - Abidemi Sonoiki. It's more disheartening to remember that we both clocked 40 same day about 7 months ago - Nov 8, 2014. May your gentle soul rest in peace. May the Family and loved ones left behind continually find succor with Christ. Adieu .......

About three decades ago, three little love birds: Lola Oworu, Kemi Odewole and Lara Oyewole met in the bid to lay their future beds of destiny properly by acquiring secondary education at the one and no other OLASS in the heart of Ijebu-Ode, LARA, my housemate , my room mate,my fashion mate because we did our first nail and face painting together, my bunk mate for the whole six years in school was temporarily separated from me due to to pursuits of tertiary education at different institutions.The memory of adolescence shared together lingered on and it was as if we were physically together.

Now the news of permanent separation by the wicked death sounds incredible. You will forever be in my heart. I thought you will be invited to my son's wedding ceremony some day, the one whose naming ceremony you attended about a decade ago with your Heartthrob and two children. Lara, i love you so much and the moments we shared together at the school handball team, Prime Instructors - Maryland, Shamsideen - Ikorodu, and eating at mummy's shop around Ilupeju will forever remain fresh.

In submission to the Almighty God, i wish to say GOODNIGHT until the resurrection morning.

O di gba, titi ti a ma fi gbade lese JESU.

Omolara, sun re e o.


Oyelola Oworu Ajakaye.

Sleep on Omolara. Your sweet memories will forever linger in our hearts.Till we meet to part no more.

I am extremely consoled by the fact that Omolara Olaide Sonoiki is surely in a better place right now.

We met in 2001 when she was still dating my very dear friend and brother -Abidemi .

14 years after , Omolara Larosky did not change from being the charming , soft -spoken , gentle, down to earth , kind , accommodating and VERY SIMPLE lady she was 14 years ago.

I can remember the wedding service in 2002 which I was privileged to be one of the grooms men . The bridal train arrived a bit late and I could see the smile and big relieve on my friend's face when Larosky eventually entered the church in glamour.

Lara , you have been a huge and tremendous pillar of support for Abidemi Oluwagbemiga and surely he could have been nothing without you . You "are" a virtuous woman in all its ramification . You were his special adviser and critic.

Your entrepreneurship skills are exemplary and you can simply be tagged:
" from grass to grace " ...from trading clothes from your car to where God took you years after.

I think the bible verses below sum it up for you Larosky in all fairness :

"Her husband depends on her, and she never lets him down. She is good to him every day of her life, and with her own hands she gladly makes clothes. She is like a sailing ship that brings food from across the sea. She gets up before daylight to prepare food for her family and for her servants. She knows how to buy land and how to plant a vineyard, and she always works hard. She knows when to buy or sell, and she stays busy until late at night. She spins her own cloth, and she helps the poor and the needy. Her family has warm clothing, and so she doesn't worry when it snows. She does her own sewing, and everything she wears is beautiful. Her husband is a well-known and respected leader in the city. She makes clothes to sell to the shop owners. She is strong and graceful, as well as cheerful about the future. Her words are sensible, and her advice is thoughtful. She takes good care of her family and is never lazy. Her children praise her, .......

and with great pride her husband says, ............“There are many good women, but you are the best!” (‭Proverbs‬ ‭31‬:‭11-29‬ CEVDCUS06)

I can confidently say Lara, you lived a short but very purposeful and consistent life . Your old and new friends are saying the same thing about you - that's consistency .

You never lived to impress anyone , you are an epitome of Class and Simplicity .

You served me a lovely breakfast in your home on Monday April 6,2015 and I never knew that was the last time I would see you on this side of life .

The last time I spoke with you on June 6,2015, you were still full of hope of returning home shortly and little did I know it's your eternal and final home you were talking about .

Omolara Larosky , thanks for living purposefully and intentionally . We are sad on this side but heaven is rejoicing and welcoming an amazing daughter home .

It's therefore the responsibility of all of us left behind to live such a life that we would receive an amazing welcome when our time is up .

Bidemi , Teniola , Nifemi and Foyin are not finding it funny yet as you have been an integral part of their lives and it's not east saying goodnight but I trust God to take care of them so you can look down and smile all the time .

No words of ours can console them right now but GOD ,THE ALL-KNOWING WILL CONSOLE THEM .

I am glad about the experience of your last moments on June 16,2015 and I'm exited I m not saying "goodbye" but "good night " Omolara Larosky .

Ending with Bidemi s favorite quote for a long time - " O ye Olorun "

Oreemiiii,
This is a shock and i still feel numb, Lara!!!!

Memories of all the stages till now, i keep remembering the bridal showers, weddings, suits in the car for sale, birth of our kids, career advancement, encouraging words during storms, how i never had time and we'll gist for hours unending each time i came shopping, how you'll convince me to 'over-shop' with your charms, sweetness and smile, you'll always say 'oremi sha ra, iwo na ni wa san, gaari di e ni wa mu'
how I'll call your line and shout 'lllaaarrraaa oooo, am on the other side of the road, and as usual your response 'wahala e po '.
how we could gist in low tone and catch up on old gist.
how i would always pester Deola and she would have to call u on phone and as usual you'll always give in and say 'iwo na lo to be, sha mu, motigbo oremi cost price ni yen o'.

Omolara-oremi, you were a good mother, wife, sister and friend, you were gentle, warm, caring,humble respectful and of course charming.
In all things we give thanks, i truly do not understand but i know that God knows ALL things and only Him has the final say over us all.
Faithful is our Unquestionable God, our father and creator, He shall comfort, console n heal Brother Bidemi, Teni, Nifemi, Foyin, Mumsie,Deola,Taiwo, your siblings, family and every aching heart.

Goodnight Omolara-Oremi, continue to rest in the bosom of The Lord.

Lara,

I remember very clearly the first time we met through our to-be husbands, Bidemi and Femi. It was on a fine evening on Isheri Road in 2001. It didn't feel like we were meeting for the first time at all. I liked you instantly. There was just something about you that was so endearing.

My respect for you grew when you started Dress Sense. You were pregnant for Teniola then. You would leave your house at Omole and drive from office to office doing your thing. I watched with respect and admiration as you grew the business from the booth of your car to the prestigious Awolowo Road Ikoyi. Yet with all your success, you never changed one bit. You are one of the most grounded people I know. Your simplicity was outstanding. You had a simple yet classy elegance about you that always intrigued me. Your hospitality, generosity, kindness was exceptional. Many in your shoes would flaunt their success but you never did.

I remember the story you told me about a lady who walked into your shop and you attended to her. At a point, she insisted that she wanted to see "the madam". You smiled, turned to your sales assistant and told her the customer wanted to see madam. You had that sense of humor.

Though we were not in constant communication, we would always pick up from where we left off just like we did on the 6th of April 2015. I didn't know it would be the last time i'd see you. The last time we spoke, you told me you'd be back in Nigeria soon. Femi and I decided that we'll visit as soon as you returned home. We didn't know that would be the last conversation we would have. Then we got the news of your passing.

My heart aches for B.I.D and the children. I don't even have the appropriate words to tell him. I know how much he adores you, how you have been a rock and a pillar of support to him. You were the perfect fit for him. I pray for strength for him. I pray that the Holy Spirit will comfort him and the children. Most importantly, that God will glorify Himself in all of this. 

I know you're alive, in a better place where there is no pain or sorrow. This is not an end for you, it is a crossing over to a new life. Laroski, enjoy your forever life, joining the angels in your new song to the Father. Keep basking in your Saviour's love.

We miss you so much on this side.

Enitan Femi-Obasan

Omolara Sonoiki nee Oyewole,
I was shocked and short of words when Sheriff Bakry(Bongo) broke the news to me on the 22nd June 2015, that you have passed on. You are my bosom friend during our days in OSU, a relentless academic brand, teacher, courteous, decent and reliable woman." Lara baby" that I fondly called you..i remember our sleepless night with assignment and preparation for exams, anyway, I can't question God because all that is hidden to man is well known to Him. But I can ask your guardian angel why he allowed death to toil with you. "Lara" Omo Oyewole ...All is well with your soul, children,husband and the family you have left behind in Jesus name.

Omolara you created a Gap only God can fill in lot of lives ,you are a good listener ,so kind hearted and gentle ,
Your simplicity is what I always pray i have ,you are a friend a sister and a good adviser .From the first day we met till our last chat I see you as a strong lady and believe you will pull through but God knows best .i know where you are you are still standing very strong for your family
I will miss you Lara , we love you but God love you more sun re o ore mi

we can not question God, but I know HES always at HIS best with us, when I heard u passed on that morning I was binding and rebuking but it was too late. I cant still get over that shock, we were together at Minnas shop, we had good gist, we talked about handbags roots n source and I told u I give u the full gist when I return from US,not knowing that was an eternal goodbye. Dressence, you are such a humble person, kind hearted and a peace lover. I am glad u are at the right hand of the almighty. I read all the tribute and I got broken the more and I realized even in death u are a teacher to us u are leaving behind. Lara sleep on with the saint till we meet to part no more

Wow, can't believe I won't see u again Aunty, my Boss, my mentor, my Roll model, Aunty am missing u already. The little period I met u was great' ha enire lo' OMG d last time I saw u, u said Basirat am going for a long time please take care of the store, Aunty this is so sad, words alone can't speak my feelings. RIP Oga bi omoiya... missed u forever Love u ma

Omolarami!!! I can't believe I will be writing this on your wall and you won't be able to read it.

I had migraine that early morning when Sis Moji called to break the news. My scream scared everyone in the office and I went straight to whatsapp to chat but you didn't respond! I still didn't believe it so I chatted your husband and also called Layi! Alas! It was true; they couldn't have been joking with such!

I was still inviting you for my children's birthday Laraaaaa! I was still with your hubby about a month ago, and he was filled with life! I didn't see this blow coming to my face at alll, so much so the Migraine flew off! Lara, I remembered those days at Ojota when we would do breakfast at my house and Lunch at yours. You'll come to mine and we'll go to yours together after breakfast and in the evening you'll escort me back (we were jobless and waiting for NYSC).

I remembered the wedding plans and your wedding gift's money that got missing. Omolarami! We planned another gift for you together secretly without anyone knowing I lost that money even in your busy schedule. You were that wonderful and since that day, I held you in high esteem.

You taught me how to knee down and greet with 2 knees instead of 1 that I'm used to, no matter where I am.

You were a mentor. A sister, a confidant and a mother. I have heard that God usually take his angels from this wicked world early to be with him where they worry no more. Afe o, sugbon Jesu fe o ju Omolara. Sun reee ooooo Oremiiii. Oh death where is thy sting; oh grave where is thy Victory??? Can't deal with this still...

I was so sure Uncle Bidemi wrongly typed 'RIP' on his DP but alas.... You were such a strong woman building your business from the scratch. You loved Demilade like your own. You loved my family like yours..... I still wonder maybe if..... maybe... but God is unquestionable and I guess he loves you more than we do here.

I am shocked n short of words, l said it was unusual for me to drop gels for my son's introduction n you will not attend nor call to say anty ,I can't come n a small gift won't follow. I have been to your shop many times without meeting you, your sister never told me you were sick, l thought l must have been coming at odd times when you had travelled to stock your shop. I never knew you were sick. I remember coming into your shop at Alade market. That was our first time of meeting. I was not just a customer to you, you took me as your elder sister. I will miss you. Sleep on in d bosom of your maker. God will protect your children especially your baby, we always joked about that pregnancy. Ha. I will miss you. Iyabo Obasa, permanent secretary, ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources. Lagos State.

Omolara was so humble, respectful, hard working, industrious and a down to earth woman, who carries everybody along. Rest in perfect peace Iyawo wa.

IYA EWE KEKERE ORE-OFE C&S CHURCH - OMOLARA SONOIKI,

I was shocked when a friend called me on that fateful wednesday asking me if I heard about auntie Lara's death. I responded back to her to give a genuine story, but she bursted into tears while the lunch I was carrying fell off. I confirmed the sad story from my husband who quickly picked his phone and checked uncle Bidemi's DP and he confirmed that her picture was on uncle Bidemi's DP as RIP. This is indeed a great loss to our generation that Omolara Sonoiki will not be seen again. The children Ministry of Ore-Ofe C & S will miss you so much.

We love you, but the Lord loves you more.

SUN LAYA JESU KRISTI OLUGBALA WA. 

Till we meet again

IYA EWE KEKERE ORE-OFE C&S CHURCH - OMOLARA SONOIKI,

I was shocked when a friend called me on that fateful wednesday asking me if I heard about auntie Lara's death. I responded back to her to give a genuine story, but she bursted into tears while the lunch I was carrying fell off. I confirmed the sad story from my husband who quickly picked his phone and checked uncle Bidemi's DP and he confirmed that her picture was on uncle Bidemi's DP as RIP. This is indeed a great loss to our generation that Omolara Sonoiki will not be seen again. The children Ministry of Ore-Ofe C & S will miss you so much.

We love you, but the Lord loves you more.

SUN LAYA JESU KRISTI OLUGBALA WA. 

Till we meet again

It was a very rude shock when i learnt about your passing to glory.You were a good person. Rest in the blossom of the Lord.

13 yrs ago I lost my mum and ever since I was able to develop a "no cry face" for any loss but yours caught me really off guard,i cried like a baby jolting and stamping in my car that morning so much that bikes passing had to park to see if I was ok .I had to call "egbon" to confirm and I still could not hold the tears while speaking with him,my wife was almost not allowing me drive that day but I managed and eventually bumped into another car which left a mark on my front bumper till today .I was utterly devastated.

You are a sister one would dream of having,a wife one one would pray to be hooked to,a strong force behind your husband. i remember the beautiful times my family and I spent at your place,you never looked down on anyone,you were especially welcoming no matter the number of guests,you sought people's opinion and did your business in the most diligent way.

You fought a good fight and left the arena when the ovation was loudest.
I only pray that the Holy spirit comforts your household,I pray he strengthens them and grant them wisdom to keep steering the family in the right part.

Rest well Aunty Lara.

Mrs Omolara Olaide Sonoiki....hmmmm, May the good Lord bless your soul and keep you among the successful once in the hereafter.
She(madam sonoiki) was and will also be a great GEM to us in my family. I thought I would have the opportunity to meet her in person to thank her for her kindness and support to my family..but God knows best.
May the Good Lord shower His mercy on her soul and accept all the good deeds she did while she was alive.
My sincere condolence to her Husband, the kids and the entire family, may the Almighty grant us all the fortitude to bear the loss...!!!!

SUN RE OOÒOO AUNTY

Hmmmm,words alone cannot express the way l feel,l don't know what to write l was shocked &still in shock hoping someone will tell me it is not true.Omolara,you were a calm,rare,passionate,down to earth,straight forward,loving,generous,Godly and too kind to a fault,but who are we to question God,oye olorun,Boba se hun losese,Afeo sugbon Jesu feo ju,Sun 're o,olufe ,God will console Bidemi and your children,in everything let us give thanks,Sun laya oluwa 're,ORE OFE C&S children ministry will missed you.

MY TRIBUTE TO LAROSKI!

Omolarami, I will miss you is not a choice statement. You know I can practically do nothing without your input and critics. From feeding to clothing, there would definitely be a gap to fill. Is it the great companionship that we enjoyed? Who do I have those long mid-night discussion with? Remember, even when you travel, distance was not an issue, you were simply a phone call away! Now, what number do I call you on?

What would happen to your perfect finishing to all home matters. You were still moulding Teniola on how and what makes a good home. What would happen to your most concerned Nifemi and least of all, your favourite Foyinsolami Ayanfe?

These are questions that ponders my heart minutes by minutes, and I will love you to respond............ Well, I am not promising to love you, it is a commitment.

Until we meet to part no more, I promise to remain OLUWAGBEMIGA.

Aunty Lara, you were a lover of good music, a very quiet motivator....i remember how often u made me blush with your charming smile and kind words of encouragement. There was a particular day u walked through d crowd just to record me while playing...i felt proud like i was on a grammy stage...smiles. I pray God comforts your loved ones especially your immediate family. Continue to rest in d bosom of our Lord.

  Adieu!!! 

  Omoniyi Owomoyela Jnr.

On Wednesday 17th of May, 2015. I went for our very early breakfast fellowship and it was an awesome time with God. On my way back to the office, I received a call and heard the news of your demise; I screamed and burst into tears and for a very long time, my colleagues could not console me! This was unexpected because for every time we chatted and spoke, you would encourage me and always offered me good advises and prayers. However, death has a weight of finality.
When someone you love dies, one gets the feeling that the world should stop – take a solemn moment – remember one who has walked this earth and touched our lives. I cannot imagine anyone not pay their respects to Aunty Larami Sonoiki!
I’d like to honour my Aunt with a brief reflection. Words cannot capture the fullness of her life albeit how short it was to us. She gave birth to three children and ‘mothered’ many more.
Faith brought us together when I was in my teens as we attended the same church and ever since we had remain closed. We were in the choir together then and she had a sonorous voice. We both sang soprano! When I heard she was getting married, I had to leave school to make sure I robbed on her wedding day. One thing was different though, to us as choristers, the meal was just not ok because choir meals in Methodist Church Opebi was always a grandeur (I heard the whole story preceding the wedding preparation later from Bro. Bidemi Sonoiki and indeed God has been awesome to the family). I was invited by my fiancé then to Ore-Ofe C& S Church for their choir anniversary and low and behold, I met her at the entrance, It had been a long time since we last saw one another, I never knew she attended the church, she asked in her usual calm manner who invited me and I said it was ‘Deji Owomoyela and that I intended to marry him and instantly I got her blessings. We had remained close ever since and inseparable(not minding the age gap). 
She had good taste hence the set gold standard for Dressense Boutique Ventures. She beautified many lives with her clothing line as well as her wealth and generous heart. She never saw being rich as an honour, she saw it as the grace of God which she often told me hence her humanitarian help to all around her. She was an amazing angel! Has it ever crossed our minds that God usually takes the best ones early; maybe it’s because of His immense love for them!
She called me in March and asked me to visit her Ikoyi shop for some dresses and suits, I wondered why? I stalled it and just before she travelled in April, she called me again, I still did not go and when she got to the US, she kept on chatting with me to go, finally I told my husband I had to go ‘cos Aunt Lara had been “disturbing” me and it wouldn’t look nice again. Trust my sis like I fondly called her…they were glamorous suits and very expensive. One of the price tags was left on a dress, I guess the sales girl forgot to remove it and I screamed when I saw it! It was huge. That was Aunt Lara! I could go on and on from our youth together , our experience as choristers in our youthful days, our many discussions about life, her experience and her journey so far before she got to this financial height, her stories with each pregnancy she had, the child birthing stage and so on but it won’t bring her back.
I had the grace to see her on May 2nd at an engagement and we hugged for a long time, as I opened my mouth and said “thank you for the…” she just covered my mouth with her hands and gave me another bear hug, a very tight one, I never knew that would be the last of our many hugs and kisses. I guess that was her way of saying goodbye to me.
All these however did not define the extent of her accomplishments. She birthed Dressense and brought it to an international standard with different outlets, she was also our “Iya Ewe” for all the children in our church and she really took care of them. There was no children anniversary in church that her full impact was not felt even before she was bestowed the title of “Iya Ewe”. She took special attention to my kids and always remembered them in any of her trips abroad.
Aunt Larami may not have topped 5’; but there’s no doubt that she stood tall in our lives! God already had this planned out, someday we will all begin to understand why?
As God’s greatest gift becomes life’s greatest sorrow, today’s precious moment turn into tears of tomorrow, but while our hearts grow heavy, grief stricken and weary, we know that with time, the dark skies will be clearing as Heaven’s gates welcome a familiar face! God’s glorious light will forever shine upon you dearest aunt and as your ashes rest peacefully here on earth, your soul will live eternally in an angelic re-birth. I will miss you, my family will miss you, EbunOluwa never really got to know you but she felt your love. I still tear around at the sound of your name but I take solace in knowing that one day we will meet again. I know you are watching over us all, your wonderful and loving husband,your pretty children, your families and friends from your place up in the clouds.
My heart will heal with each passing night and a new day and I sincerely hope that what you begin to see in me and my family now will make you proud.
Sleep on in the Lord’s bosom
Oyenike EbunOluwa Owomoyela

Dearest Omolara.
The news of your death came to me as a rude shock and I kept saying which Lara?. It was too much for me to accept.
I met you during university days : Ogun State University. We stayed in the same hall, popoola hospital hall. Then we call you "Lara Musketeers" you caught my attention with your lovely personality and great style. You were so full of life. God brought us back together again after school,as I walked into your shop at Alade Market, nothing changed, you were still as beautiful, humble, kind, and loving. You will ask someone to buy me Amala from Glass house.when I come to shop in your boutique. You are always wanting to give something. I know you are in a better place now.
Rest in Peace Dearest.
Till we meet to part no more!

Ever since I heard of your painful demise, I have only wondered why beautiful people don't live long? But then again, we cannot question God, can we? He called you home to Himself and only Him knows why.

I thank God for the life you lived Omolara, judging from what people have written as tributes to you - it is evident that you lived a life worthy of praise. I pray the Lord grant you eternal rest and may the the light of God bring consolation to everyone you have left behind.

I pray that this light will surprise your loved ones and that in this very dark hour, God will send them the assurance of His love and bring them healing.

Sleep on beloved, till we meet again at the Master's feet.


'Seyi Oludimu (OLASS IJEBU-ODE '92 SET)

The news of ur demise was a great shock to me, everyday seem as if am dreaming and will soon wake up, mum Teniola you left when i begin to know who you are,whenever you see me you welcome me with a smile and never forget to ask of my baby.Iya ewe kekere i will forever remember you.

Tribute—

YOU WILL BE GREATLY MISSED


Aunty molara, Words cannot express how I feel at the moment, I don’t know how to say goodbye because I still wake up some mornings and think about you and I’m like maybe they will soon tell me I am dreaming or it’s not true. When my sister told me, she is like “I want to tell you something but I want you to calm down, Aunty Molara is dead”. For a long moment, I couldn’t imagine, I’m like no, it’s a lie, it can’t be true. How??? It is not true. Then my dad messaged me to tell me the same thing. For the whole day, I didn’t reply to his message because I was waiting for it to go away thinking maybe it is a dream. My mum called a day after or two, she was asking me are you ok? How can I be ok?? I am waiting to hear it’s not true because I do not understand or know how to handle it. Every time they keep asking me, how are you coping, I am so blank because I can imagine that I was one of the last set of people that was privileged enough to have the last encounter with you in Nigeria. Suddenly I remember every detail of our discussion right from when I came to visit you at home to the time you said “love you” to the triplets and myself before departing to check in at the airport on that fateful day that you were leaving the shores of Nigeria. You never said anything about dying. I thought we were departing to meet in London, later in the month for the wedding of my sister.

God knows that even distance did not stop me from thinking about you or sometimes dreaming about you and I ask my mum how are you doing? I remember the last conversations we had, the talks, the final advice you had for me, you and Uncle Bidemi teasing yourselves. I remember our trip to Teni’s school – we went together that fateful Sunday before your departure; I remember the fried rice with shrimp and chicken you made. And you telling me whenever you cooked that I should manage that because you know it’s not as nice as my mum’s. Sometimes I said to myself; maybe if I had prayed more about this, maybe God would have heard my prayers. Wowwwww!!! Aunty Molara, I cannot believe the “love you” was going to be the last thing you were going to say to me. I remember how You and Teni were still arguing about the dress you bought for her and how you were still trying to convince her that it was a nice dress and it looked nice on her; but she told you to still take it back home and when she comes back, she will get the dress. I remember how Uncle Bidemi and I were talking about how you tell him to change a dress if you don’t think it is appropriate. He would ask you for approval of whatever he was wearing always. How you make sure everyone around you is looking nice even my mum… Aunty Lara, my heart is broken and it bleeds to hear that I won’t see you anymore. It’s funny how one tends to forget some things or some little details after a while, but on hearing your demise, everything kept coming back.. Everything, little detail to the time you kissed Foyinsolami bye.. WOW!!!!!!! Oooh Little did I know that that was the last kiss you will give to your little boy and baby of the house!!!!!!  It hurts, and I can only speak for myself. I keep thinking about how Teni, Nifemi or Foyinsolami will take it. This is so hard to take and I can’t imagine how Uncle Bidemi and the family is taking it.

Aunty Molara, I can go on and on and on about everything little thing that happened… I really hope you are in a better place. I was blessed to have known you, to have a relationship with you.. It is so hard to say goodbye and I wish I didn’t have to.. YOU WILL BE GREATLY MISSED.. This was so soon, too soon but God Knows best, so I pray that may your Soul Rest In Peace and may God comfort and console those you left behind.

I don’t want to feel discouraged or upset or sad anymore because you have finished your race and you have done it well, You have left this life of hustle to a more relaxed place, a place of comfort.

I just pray that from this, we are all able to understand and comprehend life and understand that today you might be, tomorrow you might not anymore. We have to live everyday like it is our last and not take life for granted. Aunty Molara has done hers, and we all felt it. So with the little time that we all have on earth, we are able to use it not just for ourselves but for those around us to know and feel the impact of our existence so that when the time comes, we also will be confident in the fact that we have run a good race.

Aunty Molara, I love you and thank you for all that you have done, you will be greatly missed.

You are forever in our Hearts.

Simi OmolaraAdewunmi - Canada

Aunty, as i fondly called you anytime i came to your shop for clothing's. I never knew you were related to my childhood friend( Oluyemisi Daini nee Sonoiki), when i started patronizing you. It was so sad and painful that you left us so soon. You never looked down on anyone, i can still remember your beautiful face, smiles and your gentle attitudes. May God be with Uncle Bidemi and the kids you left behind.
A fe yin , sugbon Jesu fe yin ju.
Continue to rest Aunty.

A capable, intelligent, and virtuous woman–who is he who can find her? She is far more precious than jewels and her value is far above rubies or pearls. The heart of her husband trusts in her confidently and relies on and believes in her securely, so that he has no lack of honest gain or need of dishonest spoil.

A true description of Aunty Lara.. We can't believe you're gone. You've truly been a blessing to my parents, Mr and Mrs Adewunmi, myself and my husband Tolani, and my siblings. Even though you're gone, your memory will live on. We love you. Till we meet again. 

Tolani, Tinuke, Bayo, Damola and Omolara

I'm still struggling to breathe...words still fail me. I've always been able to put my feelings into words but I can't do this... Lara, I can't even begin to describe how much this hurts..It's still a nightmare and it began with a text that black morning when I heard the news...

I still remember the day we met just like yesterday at Popoola Hall, Ogun State Uni, 1998. From that day onwards, we were inseparable. We roomed together, crammed together, cooked together, ate together, shopped together, prayed together, laughed together, cried together,served NYSC together, made future plans together....My family became yours, yours became mine..You were larger than life; always making a lasting impression on everyone that met you. You brought me to Christ when Adeboye came to OSU..

We were each other's chief bridesmaids at our weddings...the nicknames Layi gave Teniola and Nifemi -MC W and MC P, still rings in my ears..we stayed over at each other's houses...you were my sister, confidant, adviser, mentor...

I honestly can't go on..The only comfort I have is you are resting in His Bosom. Till we meet again at Jesus Feet, rest in perfect peace, my beautiful sister. May God continue to give Bidemi, Teni, Nifemi, Foyin ,the entire family and friends the fortitude to bear your great loss.

I am still in shock. But whom are we to question God. Rest in peace, Omolara

We were classmates at Ogun poly, different departments at OSU but it didnt stop us from jisting whenever we saw and always proud of your achievements each time I passed by any of your stores... The smile on your face each time we ran into each other was always as bright as ever... its so unfortunate that it had to end this way but I know that you're in a better place and no one can question God.. HE guide and shield the children you left behind and comfort your husband. .. ADIEU Omolara

Aunty Omolara Sonoiki Tribute

Aunty Omolarami…Sureeeoooo
  When I first met you, I was instantly intrigued by your kindness and loving personality, I grew to become very fond of you. I was glad for bro Bidemi having met a beautiful woman that also managed to make him the happiest man on earth. You brought out the shinning light and brightness inside of him and anyone could tell he had fallen so in love with you. He became part of you vise-visa…. You thoroughly enjoyed one another and built such a wonderful life together. I hope you watch them from high upon the heavens and comfort him and your beautiful children as they suffer the loss of your presence.
  Then comes the relationship you kept with my mother, the friendship you had which is one worthy of having, kind of bond an interconnection that you guard and keep possession of till the Lord calls for you.
 I Cannot begin to commence in describing what you meant to my lovely baby sister with the fact that you two bear same name doesn’t even begin to describe the enhancement of the kind admiration and role-model she and I would have ever wish for….So Thank You for the guidance and the love you spread.
 “It’s odd, isn’t it? People die every day and the world goes on like nothing happened. But when it’s a person you love, you think everyone should stop and take notice. That they ought to cry and light candles and tell you that you’re not alone.”
― Kristina McMorris, Letters From Home
 Being told by my little sister that you were gone on a beautiful morning, my heart skipped and I didn’t want to believe my sister, so I ended the conversation and went to bed wanting to believe there is no way possible that could be the true, waking up nothing had changed, my heart was in as much distressed as it was before I went back to bed.
 “Here is one of the worst things about having someone you love die: It happens again every single morning.”
― Anna Quindlen, Every Last One
There is no much words that would replace what you meant to my family, I can only pray for God to comfort each and everyone you left behind Husband, Parent, Children, and Friends
 I am always saddened by the death of a good person. It is from this sadness that a feeling of gratitude emerges. I feel honored to have known you and blessed that your passing serves as a reminder to me that my time on this beautiful earth is limited and that I should seize the opportunity I have to forgive, share, explore, and love. I can think of no greater way to honor your memory. We Love you...Mr. & Mrs. Adewunmi, Tolani, Tinuke, Bayo, Joanna, Omolara, and Dahlia"
Till Will Meet Again…..Sleep Well My Lovely Aunty Omolarami Olaide Sonoiki.

Auntie Lara,
You did not take me like someone you knew through your husband but instead you took like a sister. You did not joke with anything that has to do with me from the very first day you met me. How do I start? Is it what you did while I was in school? During my wedding? During my relocation abroad with my family? Even after I relocated to Canada, the distance was not a barrier as we were in constant communication. I wonder how I will fill the vacuum of the friendship you left as I tearfully look at our last chat on BBM which I have not deleted. Some days before your death, we had spoken and I told you I will be coming to Nigeria to bug you and you had responded that "May God give us the grace to see each other" not knowing you were giving a clue. All I can say is it is well and may God take of the little children you left behind.

Sis...as I fondly call you. We didn't know each other for too long but you left a lasting impression in my heart. So humble, kind and always ready to be of assistance. I remember when I told you I was pregnant...you were so excited for me and I was planning to visit you with my baby. Lara darling only the Almighty knows why He took you so early but I am comforted in the knowledge that you are resting in the bosom of our Lord Jesus. God bless continually Bidemi and the children. The Almighty Himself will nuture, guide and counsel your husband and children each and every second. Sun re o Sis.

This tribute is from your dear nephew Oreoluwa Oyewole aunty Lara was a great person in this world you were the key to every ones heart even when things are going on wrongly you seem to make a way to make everyone smile two days before yo left I heard your voice and I also prayed to you when I first heard that you died I could I looked into my moms eyes for 5 minutes then I started crying and every one started begging me to stop but still you might have died physically but you haven't died in our hearts may your soul rest in peace aunty and loved mother Omolara Sonioki

Dear God

Our Mother has joined you in the heavens we will really miss her. IYA EWE kekere popularly known by the children ministry of Ore-ofe C&S church Ijesha you were a real mother to us all. She was kind, cheerful, loving, generous and never self centered. Aunty Lara you deserve the best life had to Offer.

We the whole children of Ore-Ofe C&S church deeply love her just as she had loved us but our love wasn't enough to keep her with us forever.

Aunty Lara you will forever remain unforgettable in the deepest place of our hearts.

Heavenly father please help us tell our dearly beloved Mama Ewe that her warm, affectionate and undying love will continue to remain in our hearts forever.

Father rest our dear mother in your bossom.

Thank you for comforting us all who she left behind.

Thank you too for her life well spent by touching and impacting lives positively.


Yours Sincerely
Children Ministry
Ore-Ofe C&S Church
Ijeshatedo







AUNTY LARA


Hmmmmm!!!!!!

I still couldn't believe it that you are no more with us.

Words can't really express how astonishing i am to hear this news of your departure.

BUT my hopes are so high that you have just gone to be with God sleeping and resting at His bossom till we all finally meet again at the Throne of God.

Aunty LARA life encounters with you has been well cherished and held paramount in our hearts (THE OWOPETU Family). We all indeed miss you.

MY sincere prayer is that God Almighty through His Spirit should comforts all of us who you left behind.


Yours in the Lord
KOLADE on behalf of
THE OWOPETUs

Aunty Lara,

Your transition to glory still seems like a mirage, like a terrible nightmare one would be very glad to wake up from...but alas, it is real (and sadly so).
I have come to the conclusion that there are some things we just might not get to understand in this life, maybe we would someday (in eternity).

In this extremely complex world, finding someone living his/her life in simplicity and humility is like having a bright light shine out of the darkest of tunnels and that was exactly who you were as you shone brightly via these virtues.
You probably had reasons to have lived your life in a pride, considering your qualifications, achievements, how industrious you were etc, but instead, you rather chose to be humble. You had good impact on the lives of many who knew you and the beauty of it is that you did this so quietly (that one's left hand was totally ignorant of the good you had done to the right hand).

We would deeply miss you; we would miss your simplicity and humility, we would miss your beautiful smile as well as the very good and big heart you had... I will also miss the special way you greet me.
Everyone says that the earth has lost an angel, and I couldn't agree less... unfortunately we are the worst for it.

I pray and trust God to uphold your family particularly your immediate - Bro. Bidemi and your three angels. I trust God to always show forth as their comfort and consolation and grant them all that is required to bear this painful loss.

Do rest in perfect peace Aunty Lara. Adieu!!!

Lara, words are not enough to describe the rude shock of the news of your pass on to glory. I thought our collective prayers can still do the miracle but God knows best. Hence our sleepless night before the news of your demise was convened to me that early morning You were such a gentle , respectful and unassuming person. Your love towards children, kindness towards many and secret givings will never be forgoten. What do I say, so many questions. I pray that God will give your darling husband, the children, family and entire members of Ore- Ofe C&S church the fortitude to bear this loss. Rest in the bosom of your creator.

Hmmmmmmmmmm! I never believed the news and I decided not to ask anyone believing God can restore her back to life! So, I was waiting for that news....

Oh! What? Can't read nor write anything again at that moment.... I had to cancelled some of my appointments and engagement....

Didun Ni iranti iku olododo.... We (I and my family) and the entire members of Ore Ofe C&S Church would miss you.

We pray that God grant you eternal rest in Jesus Name. Amen!

"The memory of the just is blessed..." (Prov. 10:7a)

Chaplain Taiwo Balogun
For: THE BALOGUNs

Adenigbagbes; When we lose a loved one here on earth, we gain an angel in heaven that watches over us. May you take in comfort knowing that you have an angel to watch over you now. We extend our most sincere condolences to you. And after the tears have dried and the goodbyes have been said, all we have to hold onto are the happy memories that we’ve shared with our loved ones who have passed, this is what keeps them alive in our hearts and in our minds, and they will continue to live on, through us. Our condolences. ADIEU MA YOUR SPIRIT LIVES ON.

When we lose a loved one here on earth, we gain an angel in heaven that watches over us. May you take comfort in knowing that you have an angel to watch over you now. We extend our most sincere condolences to you.
And after the tears have dried and the goodbyes have been said, all we have to hold onto are the happy memories that we’ve shared with our loved ones who have passed, this is what keeps them alive in our hearts and in our minds, and they will continue to live on, through us. Our condolences. Adenigbagbes.

Truly the world is not our home. Your ever smiling face and loving character made you a woman of virtue. I will miss you.

Beloved Sister in Christ

Your first half of the game was glorious. At the time you were just starting the second half of the game, the Almighty Coach decided that you had had enough playing time.

Who can question the Unquestionable Coach? Albeit, we enjoyed your game while it lasted.

Adieu, Omolara Olaide Sonoiki!

We met during .sy kemi odewole -Osifeso wedding then in Ogudu,very pleasant lady,rest in peace .sy Omolara