Dear aunty - so sorry to hear of your passing. It’s been such a long time since I saw you. The memories of you however, are still fresh in my mind. Your friendship with my mom and your loving and kindness to us as kids. May your soul Rest In Peace and May the Lord comfort your entire family.

I am Kevin Michael Omowale Welsh, the son of Peter Fesobi DaSilva, and I am leaving a tribute to my cousin, Chief Stella Olushola Alex-Duduyemi, who is recently departed, and who is a niece of my long departed father.
   I am a 'long lost' DaSilva about whom nobody in Nigeria had heard until recently. This was due to my Catholic Yoruba father and Catholic Irish mother having a brief and secret affair which resulted in my birth in a Catholic convent in 1954.
   The Roman Catholic Church in England and Ireland were appalled and outraged that a mixed race child resulted from an illicit mixed race relationship because, in the 1950s England, many Catholics believed that black Africans were sub-human, stupid, savages, no better than monkeys swinging through the jungle trees, fighting and eating people, and fit for nothing better than slavery and toil.
   Therefore, I was confined to Catholic institutions for the whole of my childhood; out of the public gaze of society, so that I could be indoctrinated into the 'civilised ways' of the white people. And thus I grew up without knowing anything about my Nigerian family.
   A few years ago, I made a huge effort to find my roots and I registered with AncestryDNA. I found a few 3rd and 4th cousins, but none with the name DaSilva. However, a few weeks ago, I was matched with Henrietta Bode DaSilva; Identified as a 2nd cousin. She contacted her cousin, Helen Lanre DaSilva, and, through her mother, she found a match with my father and Stella Shola, from a family tree created by Shola's daughter, Funmi. Indeed, Bode, Lanre and Funmi are daughters of three of my first cousins
   It was absolutely wonderful for me, especially when I was sent an image of my cousin Shola. I was utterly blown away on seeing her picture. I have never in my life seen a picture of such regal grace and noble dignity, serenity and sophisticated style.
I think I am still dreaming. How lucky can anyone be to have Shola for a cousin?
   Yet, there was something else I was to find out about my noble cousin. I told Bode and Lanre that
I regretted not having been given a Yoruba name, because i had wanted a one for a long time, having been denied one at birth. I had thought of using my father's name of Fesobi; which was just as well I didn't. I understand now that his name means 'Born with ease', which didn't seem appropriate to me, with my birth being six weeks premature and with the frail me being baptised the day after because I was expected to die within a few days.
   A few days later, Funmi organised a Zoom meeting for me and my wife to be introduced to, and welcomed by the family. It was so joyful and rewarding for us to meet Shola across the airwaves, even if we could not meet face-to-face at that time.
   Towards the end of the meeting my wife and I were surprised and delighted... No, we were totally shocked and exceedingly delighted when we were all informed that the great family matriarch, Shola, had endowed us with Yoruba names... mine being Omowale and my wife being Omoshalewa. We are so proud and honoured for what Shola did for us and for the compassion she showed towards us. She had kept that back until all the family could witness it on Zoom. Wow! What a woman! I suspect that she had a special sense of warming, welcoming, intellectual wit and fun, with, may I dare to say, a good degree of teasing mischief. Oh how I would have longed to have been with her much earlier in my life.
   I cannot express adaquately enough in words my gratitude for what Shola has done for me. It is easier for me to count all the drops of water in all the oceans of the world than it is for me to express my gratitude to her. Within a few short weeks from first getting to meet her, she has made an enormous impact on my life and she has stamped an indelible mark on my soul... so much so, that my life is made complete and I want for nothing more.
   Shola and I had looked forward to being able to meet in person when the pandemic had run it's course, but sadly we will have to wait a while longer now, until our spirits embrace in the Kingdom of Heaven.
   I have prayed, and will continue to pray for her soul, and for her family, so that God will grace them with his blessing, his succour and his comfort, so that he will assuage them of their great loss and immense grief.
   I offer Chief Kunle Alex-Duduyemi and his family my sincerest gratitude for granting me the highest honour to make my tribute to Shola at her Wake on 23rd March 2021, which I did so unreservedly.
   Finally, I offer my prayer for Shola, my dear departed cousin.

SLEEP NOW NOBLE COUSIN

Sleep now noble cousin,
There is no need for tears.
Your mortal life is over,
Your new life holds no fears.
Angels come to bear you...
To take your soul away.
Sleep now noble cousin
In paradise today.

Sleep now noble cousin,
Take your well-earned rest.
You have lived a good life,
Dwell now with the best.
A bright new dawn awaits you
Within God's Divine light...
Sleep now noble cousin,
Farewell and... goodnight.


❤️

Your Wale

Our hearts go out to you and your family. Death is a part of life that we dread but can’t avoid. Some truth in life are hard to accept. Your memories will never be forgotten! Those will always remain with us forever.May She rest in peace.

I on behalf of myself and colleagues from Smile Communication Ltd write to express our deep heartfelt condolence on the demise of our High Valued Customer, a great matriarch with an impeccable disposition and a great role model; Chief Mrs Olusola Stella Alex-Duduyemi.

Mummy's demise is indeed an irreplaceable loss and we all will miss her great sense of humor across all level of interaction with us as a business organization. She has made a remarkable quota as a role model and her immense advice and contributions will be largely missed.

It is our prayer that God Almighty will grant her family the fortitude to bear this colossal loss. 

Till we meet again at Jesus's feet!

Adieu Mummy!!

From all of us in Smile Communications Nigeria Ltd.

The only constant thing in this world is death but when a rare gem is lost one may tend to disagree with this rule.
Mama, though I never had the opportunity of seeing you while you were alive but your love for everyone around you is evident in the way your children radiate love, care and concern.......omo t'eya ba bi eya ni o jo.
You lived a good life and left legacies worthy of emulation.

Good night mama!

The OLUKOYAS.

I met Mummy for the first time at Bolanle's place in Windsor many years ago and her soft spoken and caring nature  formed an impression on me - a doting mother and grandmother indeed. Over the years, as I also developed a relationship with her. she extended her motherly love to me, always interested in our work and personal lives. Her elegance, gentleness and simplicity speak to an amazing woman of great grace and strength. Thank you for being a Mom to us all. We will miss you. May your gentle soul rest in peace. Amen

You were a step grandmother like my grandmother, You truly were a special, special woman! You may have passed on, but your memories would always live on within us.

Dear Grandma,

I still remember the first time I walked into your home, I was really nervous but you graciously welcomed me like you had known me all my life. I am so glad I got to meet you and spend time with you; I didn't think the last time we spoke would be the last time.

I will forever remember your advises, and encouragement.

Rest well grandma, till we meet again. 

Dear Grandma,

I really don’t know where to start but I want to thank you specially for encouraging me with love to make the very best decision I have made till date. You were such an amazing person with so much love to give. I cherish all the moments spent with you and all the knowledge you passed. In the few years I have known you the impact you’ve had has been immense.

Rest easy in sleep eternal.

Dearest Grandma, your life and the wonderful things you have done through your illustrious years will always live on within us. Thank you for your care and concern, your love and everything that you have done for our family. We will be forever grateful and thankful that you are our grandmother. May your soul rest in perfect peace. Amen.

TRIBUTE TO OUR LATE MOTHER AND FRIEND

To many, you are Chief Mrs. Stella Alex-Duduyemi. I had the rare privilege to call you mummy and this is who you were/are to me. Its still strange having to refer to you in the past☹ Well, to live in the hearts of those you love is to never die. You we

Your motherhood, full of kindness, grace, love, firmness and elegance

I recall how we sent each other the exact same thing for our birthdays August last year….kai….our hearts had become one, almost spooky. Our last family outing the Wednesday before your passing, it was all love, light and laughter. Your gentle soul, the peace you emanate, your matching shoes and bag Memories, memories, memories are all I have now.

My last moment with you was a monument of peace, fun, laughter and joy, giving me a reason to admire the strength, wisdom and grace of the ancient age.

Thanks for the jokes and fun moments that brought laughter to my ribs. Thanks for being a great icon to your children, both biological and adopted.
You have made a mark in our hearts - one, we would always live to remember. Your death cannot erase the mark of hope, happiness, love, warmth and discipline you have carved in the drawing board of our lives.

Today, in honour of your birth, life and death, my family prays that your beautiful soul rests in perfect peace.
Adieu, to a noble mother.

From Abiola Omotayo-Benson and family.

When I found out that you were very close to my noni before she passed, I could not wait to meet you and I am so glad that I did. I loved visiting you so much and would always be sad when I had to leave. I am grateful that I got to spend much time with you.

Thank you for the love you have shown me in the time that we had together. Thank you for the laughs and thank you for being a wonderful grandma to me.

May your soul rest in perfect peace. I know you and my noni are together right now smiling down on us and watching over us. ❤️

Grandma,

It is still hard to come to terms with you leaving us but as we say God knows best and we know that you are at peace. One of the first humans I interacted with upon my entry into the world and certainly the first person to give me a bath after my birth.

You departed so much wisdom not only on me but everyone you came in contact with and inspired so many of us. It’s a hole that will be hard to fill but we will continue to strive to put family first as you always did.

May your gentle soul rest in peace Grandma!

Grandma,

I am still struggling to come to terms with the idea of you being gone. It feels like a dream that I’m struggling to wake up from.

You were always more than a grandma to me, you were a friend. I am grateful that I moved back home when I did, as it meant I got to spend more time with you. I can’t believe I won’t be able to tease you about the endless number of shoes you own or about your obsession with Judge Judy.

I feel your presence around me constantly. I love and miss you much more than I could possibly ever put into words.

Sleep well Grandma, till we meet again.

It is such a difficult time to experience this loss as a family, but I am grateful for the togetherness my grandma instilled in us.

My fondest childhood memories are of my entire family in London for the summer and that will remain with me forever.

With love and appreciation, rest in peace Grandma.

Dear dearest grandma,

I still cannot believe that you are no longer here with us, no longer around to hear your words of wisdom, no longer around to oppress us with your remarkable fashion sense and top of the line shoe collection, no longer around to make me laugh at your sassy comments on particular matters that I will forever keep confidential, and last but not the least, no longer around to assist you in every technical difficulty you encountered.

You have shaped me into the man I am today and I loved and appreciated how you held me accountable at such an early age. I will never forget all the promises I made to you just before your passing and will be forever guided by your spiritual presence. You were truly a bundle of joy and happiness in every form and your 80 year existence on this planet will forever be remembered in our hearts.

May your gentle soul rest in perfect peace. Sleep well my dearest grandma and see you again.

Grandma, may your soul continue to rest in eternal peace. Thank you for all you invested in us. You were a great inspiration to many and I will forever treasure the moments we spent together. You were a great grandmother and great grandmother and for that we appreciate you.

Grandma,

Not a single day goes by that I do not think of you. Losing you and having to say goodbye breaks my heart because I was not ready to let you go. I was not finished laughing with you, sitting and talking to you about my day, telling you about my dreams and loving you with all of my heart.

I thank God for the time you and I shared together. The life lessons you taught me, the problems you helped me get through as a child and a young woman and the comfort you gave me my whole life. The bond you and I had cannot be matched, it is forever and I will always be grateful for that.

You often told me that I was just like my mother as a child, and I never truly appreciated what you meant. But what I know is that my mother is a reflection of you and it is an honour and a blessing for me to be like you. So, all that I am, and ever hope to be, I owe it to you.

You shared many years of wisdom with me and ultimately showed me the true meaning of strength. I witnessed the bond you had with my mother, my aunts and uncles and I cannot thank you enough for the love you gave them. The greatest lesson I learnt from you is the importance of having family around.

I am forever grateful for the way you showed me love. I will miss our hugs, your smile and your voice. And I sincerely hope that I continue to make you proud.

I will always keep you alive in my heart.

Rest peacefully Grandma,

Tinoye.

A rare gem is gone! We all love you but God loves you more. In your sojourn on this earth, you have touched many lives positively; and acted as a solid magnet that held many families together – such as the Alex-Duduyemis, the Da-Silvas, the Dawodus and the Odunlamis. God endowed you with some special qualities such as brilliance, humility, wisdom, understanding, dedication and generosity. I am happy to say boldly that you have used your God given talents for the benefit of mankind. Although you are a sister, you have played a vital role of a mother in my life and in that of my immediate family, including my grand-children. Also, some of the important roles you played as a member of St. Vincent De Paul Society at your Catholic Church in Apapa can never be forgotten.

May God continue to bless your soul and grant you eternal rest. Amen.

Adieu Sister Shola

Dr Soji George

I can’t believe it’s been barely three weeks since we sat together and had an extensive conversation on how to solve the world’s problems, and especially our shared sentiments about our beloved Lagos.

Your counselling over the past 30 years has left an indelible positive impression in my life, which I intend to share with all your grandchildren and great grandchildren. Your principles on family values which are fundamental to the existing harmony of the family, must be recognised and preserved.

Just a few months ago, we celebrated your 80th birthday in our garden and I am flooded with wonderful memories of how happy you were to celebrate a great land mark with family and friends without much fan fare, to which, I am grateful to have witnessed firsthand.

Your unflinching devotion to your Christian faith resonates in your affable character, together with uncanny tolerance of people regardless of their creed.

Mummy, I shall greatly miss your motherly love and affection, rest in profound peace in the bosom of the Lord.

“The righteous man perishes, and no one lays it to heart; devout men are taken away, while no one understands. For the righteous man is taken away from calamity; he enters into peace; they rest in their beds, who walk in their uprightness.” Isaiah 57:1-2

Mama Apapa as we fondly called her was a kind and peace loving woman who never imposed her opinion on people. She was a very good listener and was always ready to give her advice as a mother.

We will surely miss her but we take solace in the fact that she's resting in the blossom of the Lord Almighty. Sleep well mama rere. Adieu.

Mummy, I can’t believe you left at this time, with so much happening in the family and with so much to look forward to.
But then you have always said that at a certain age we will all hold our ‘boarding passes’ and be prepared to ‘board the flight’ when the final trumpet shall sound. That was how you departed this world on that fateful evening of March 8th 2021, without any fuss or fanfare.
 
I have decided to make this a letter rather than a tribute as a way of coping with the reality of your passing and to ease myself into a phased acceptance that you have indeed departed, never to be seen in this mortal world again.
 
Yeye Asiwaju, there is no gain saying the fact that our relationship evolved over the years and you became not only a mother indeed to me but a trusted ally whose counsel became invaluable to me. You cared deeply for my welfare, evidenced clearly by your palpable fear and anxiety over my admittance to the COVID Isolation Centre early this year.
 
Mummy, I watched how all the grandchildren bonded with you, their ever so stylish grandma and how much you loved celebrating their birthdays and attending graduations in faraway places.
That you love having them around is an understatement; your face would light up whenever
they showed up for lunch and to swim on Sundays. You knew for certain that this love was
reciprocated. The icing on the cake was when your two grandchildren, Demilade and Moniyepe introduced their
fiancés, seeking your approval of their union, a testament to how much they value the
role you have always played in their lives . We find it difficult to believe you would not be around for their
wedding, knowing for sure how excited you were for them and the parents. I pray that the Almighty God in His infinite mercy grants your soul the grace to watch the ceremonies from above.
 
Mama Bolanle, Mama Dele ,Yeye Asiwaju and mummy to my siblings and I, you were indeed very special and very much loved by us all.
 
I appreciate you deeply for 3 decades of motherly love and care and as I put down my pen with a heavy heart and gratitude to God, I pray that God in His infinite mercies will grant your soul peace and that light perpetual will shine upon you.
 
Good night Mummy.
 
Funbi Adeniyi-Taiwo

It’s so hard to believe that you are gone. You were an incredible woman, amazing and intelligent. My fondest memories of you were from Apapa and London. Rest In Peace , till we meet to part no more.

My darling aunty and big mummy Mrs. Duduyemi AKA Mama Apapa as we fondly called her while growing up. She was always ready to help and always accommodating to my siblings and I. We always look forward to going to visit her at Apapa as it gave us the opportunity to run around in their very big house.

As an adult coming to visit her was always a pleasure as she was always pleasant and available to give her opinion about issues.
She supported my business and would even pay extra for any service rendered to her. She was always a blessing to me.

I would always miss her but I am sure she is in a better place resting and praying for us all.

Rest on Mummy Apapa

             TRIBUTE TO A GEM
Chief (Mrs.) Stella Olusola Alex – Duduyemi, known in our family as “Mama Funmi”, was a Gem throughout her recent Earth life. She gave Love and sound advice where ever it was needed by anybody close to her.

I got close to Mama Funmi when she was working at the University of Lagos as the Assistant Registrar in 1970. I had just started my University study as a day student. My aunty, Mrs Yetunde Makanju (deceased), was a neighbour to the Duduyemi family, at Calcutta Crescent Apapa, asked Mama Funmi to help give me a lift to the University of Lagos every day, since I was a day student then. Just as helpful as she always was, she agreed to give me a lift to Unilag. Waiting for Mama Funmi in her house to go to Unilag, I used to admire her makeup and dressing which was astonishing and beautiful. This influenced my resolve to always be properly dressed and made up when going anywhere.

When I was going through my MSc. studies in Reading, England, 1978, I had to stay in London to finish up my thesis. Chief and Chief (Mrs.) Alex-Duduyemi generously allowed me to stay in their Albion Gate apartment on Bayswater London for four (4) months. Mama Funmi, I really appreciate your Love, Care and Generosity. The family bond between the Awokoyas, Makanjus and the Duduyemis grew stronger.

Mama Funmi was a woman of wisdom and did not hesitate to give her advice both in words and deeds. She was a dedicated Mother to her children and an example of a quiet giver to those close to her. Visiting her at home was always cooling, relaxing and down to earth. She gives truthful and sincere advice to all she considered family.

Mama Funmi will be missed greatly. She was a rare Gem to a lot of people.
I pray that Mama Funmi will be guarded straight Home in Paradise by Strong Helpers in the Beyond. My Love and prayerful thoughts will always be with you, my darling Big Sister.

IT IS WELL.


MODUPE ADUKE OGUNWALE (Mrs).

TRIBUTE TO CHIEF (MRS) STELLA OLUSHOLA DUDUYEMI

Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them. (Revelation 14:13)

We met Chief (Mrs) Shola Duduyemi, “Mama Funmi”, in the seventies during the courtship and subsequent wedding of her late, beloved brother, Dr Muyiwa Charles da-Silva and our sister Remi. Right from that time until her passing, she was always kind, charming, friendly and compassionate.

She was warm and accommodating; and treated us not as in-laws, but as actual members of the family. We remember with nostalgia the many happy moments we spent visiting her and her family at their various homes be it at Albion Gate, London or at Ladipo Oluwole Street, Apapa.

Mama Funmi was a loving sister-in-love (law) to our sister and a fantastic Aunty to her nieces, Korede, Mobola and Lolu. She lavished on them the love she’d had for their father and did all within her power to ensure that the gap caused by his untimely passing was covered. She shared in all their joys and achievements and was very much a part of their lives.

Mama Funmi was a woman without equal, a lady in every sense of the word. A devoted and capable wife, a loving yet firm mother who raised leaders in their own right. She was always courteous, approachable, graceful and gracious, fashionable and exuded class in everything she did. Her impeccable sense of style and color combinations were unrivaled and she was always elegantly turned out.

We in the Osinulu family are grateful for having known and interacted with her. We will miss her but rejoice in the knowledge that she has graduated to join the Church triumphant, where there is no more suffering or pain. We are comforted by the hope of a future reunion, when we will meet to part no more. Until then, sweet and charming lady, we wish you good night.

With fond memories:
Mrs Tokunbo Okuboyejo
Pastor (Mrs) Bimpe Mfon
Mrs Nike Ogunbanjo
Pastor Tunji Osinulu

God saw you getting tired so he put his arms around you and whispered, “Come to Me” and although we love you dearly we could not make you stay.

Grandma, I still can’t believe I will never get to sit at your feet and gist the day away with you. You shared years of wisdom with me. You taught me family values and to be kind, you were a true fan of mine! My life is shaped by grandma’s prayers, and I’m thankful for her being there. Her love was evident in so many ways in her kind words and on her smiling face.

Your leaving is Heaven’s gain, but one day I will see you again.

God broke our hearts to prove to us, He only takes the best!

I love you forever Grandma!

Hearing the news of your passing was devastating and here I am trying to find the words to articulate what an amazing, caring and beautiful sister, sister in law and Aunty you were to me, to my wife Françoise and my 3 daughters.

It goes without saying that my first daughter was named after you. The bond we had was passed on to my family, for  which I will be forever grateful. 

I lost count on how many times I travelled back home and you always insisted that I stay with you and Ashiwaju!. I sit here and reminisce about our long conversations talking about everything and anything from family to politics. As soon as you and Ashiwaju landed in London, a phone call would follow and Françoise and I  would come to Templewood for a good catch up usually over a good meal and a nice glass of wine.
No sooner you were in town, the children would also come and visit their Aunty Shola, eat you out of food and have their own catch up with you.

Our common ground was that we were  both good listeners and loved listening to others who would come to the house either in London or back home in Lagos. We would sit, look at each other and just smile. No words were needed in those times. 

You were an amazing wife  to my brother in law Alex, and a fantastic mother to my nieces, Lulu, Funmi, Bolanle, and my nephews Banky and Dele. I watched you become a loveable grandmother to your grandchildren and you would always ask after mine whenever I saw you or I spoke to you on the phone.

Shola, this is a hard loss for me, your husband, your children, our sister Rele and the rest of our family, extended family and friends not just in Nigeria but the world over. You were one popular lady and you made such an impact on so many people. Nobody ever had a bad word to say about you and words can’t express how proud of you  I always was. 

I will miss you so much. Sun re o aburo mi. 
“ To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die”.
Your brother Jimi! 

WE LOST A GEM.

A mother of esteemable jewel you were.
Mummy as you journey to the great beyond, it’s difficult to believe that we would not see you again, but I remember your words of encouragement and wisdom impartation anytime there was a challenge at work.
I can’t also forget the valuable catholic prayer book you gave me on that good morning in order to pray with.
Words of my mouth can not totally describe the values of the virtue you robbed on me as a young graduate in the late 80s.
Mummy I love you, but God your maker loves you the most.
May the Lord console our hearts as a family, as we lay you to rest.
Good night ma.

Tutu Omisore.

A great and kind soul I have known has departed. Your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure. You will be missed beyond measure.
You are now free from pain and harm.
May your soul Rest in Peace.

Ludy.

We thank the Lord for a life well spent by our dear loving and caring mother.
Mummy took everyone that came her way as her own with love and care. So full of compassion. I am a beneficiary and a testimony!
Sleep on Mummy until the Resurrection Day when we shall meet to part no more. Rest in perfect peace Mama oninu rere. Adieu.

Grandma,

You will forever be in my heart. Your love and the memories we shared will be something I cherish forever.

May your soul rest in peace❤️

We would like to pay tribute to Chief (Mrs) Stella Olushola Alex Duduyemi who we remember as being a kind and caring presence in our lives. We have many fond memories, spanning over 40 years, when we would accompany our mother Chief Mrs Iyabode Abiola to the house in Apapa and Hampstead London. There we would spend long afternoons & evenings relaxing in the family room or playing in the garden embraced in the warmth of the lively and happy Alex Duduyemi family. Mummy Mrs Duduyemi with her gentle voice, beautiful smile and fantastic sense of humour made everyone, young and old, feel welcome and comfortable.  And she was an incredible hostess! The dining table was always filled to the maximum with delicious foods and even if she was hosting at home for 50 people she remained so calm and gracious.  Thank you Ma for the consistent kindness you showed to us for all these years. You are sorely missed but the love you radiated to so many people will continue to shine brightly forever.

From Laoye Abiola & Aisha Abiola-Havelka

Grandma, you were in the lives of my siblings and I from the very day we were born. You made us smile, always had plenty stories to tell and taught us all you know about life.

We adored you ever so much and will miss your presence in our lives. Rest now, ever so peaceful in the heavens above. Amen.

This is a Tribute to the Life of my friend, Chief Olushola Alex Duduyemi, Yeye Asiwaju of the Source. A woman of dignity, grace, love, peace and incredible strength. You were a Sister, Confidant and Adviser. I still can’t believe that you have taken your final exit. I wish this is a speech to be delivered at your birthday party.

Our friendship began at a much younger age and blossomed over the years. Our families were extremely close. Our children grew up together. At every Easter, and for years, we travelled to Venice with our children when they were young. Sola was my travel companion, we on our part travelled to several countries, in different Continents.

To her children, she was a mother in Israel, and was extremely devoted to her beloved husband. She was a loyal friend and a lover of family. She was a very private person and a Devout Catholic. Throughout she served God and humanity, quietly and in her own way. She touched the lives of many through giving love, time and finances.

A woman who was unique in many ways, thoughtful, caring and full of wisdom. She was elegant, fashionable and spirit filled.

The obvious friend is the one who stands by you, honouring and affirming you. Sola was that to me. When I was on a national assignment as the Head of Mission in Jamaica, you visited me twice just to make sure that all was well with me. I thank God for you being part of my life’s journey. It is important to understand destiny as it relates to relationship. Come rain or sunshine or stormy weather, A good friend is one to treasure.

Our regular Tuesday lunch at Ikoyi Club was halted by COVID 19 pandemics, now with your exit that outing is now permanently shutdown. You have left an emptiness that is so painful.

I saw you a few days before your final exit, we both expressed our anxiety about the insecurity in the country. You had just finished your physio and I joked about you showing off with your movement and fitness. You smiled. You saw me to the door. Alas! I didn’t know it was a final good bye. I thank God for your life, a life that matters. I for one am grateful for your life and your friendship.

The only thing that is sure in life Is death. Your life is a story of Gods love.
‘’I have done my best in the race. I have run the full distance, and I have kept the faith and now there is waiting for me the prize of victory’’. (2 Timothy 4:7)

You’ve done your best, you deserve your rest.
Thank you my dearest friend, for your dedication and partnership. I am already missing you.

Good night my sister, good night.

Ambassador O. Modupe Akintola

Mummy,
Words are not enough and can not fully express your loving care in my life, the live of my late brother, Banky, and the lives of the grand children, Adiaha, Eka and Eteta.You had been a pillar of support, a great source of inspiration and a fountain of wisdom all my life from my childhood, throughout my growing up and marriage. You were a great matriarch a pillar of support to Daddy, my siblings and all the grandchildren. You took us all as one, one close family, united. That is one of your enduring qualities. One for which I am particularly grateful and will be forever indebted.
I am so grieved to see you leave us so soon. I will miss you dearly. Gone to rest you have and surely in the blissful bosom of the Lord. Blessed you were and blessed you will remain for eternity.
Your Loving Daughter
Lulu

OUR MAMA
She was completely devoted to her family.
Admired for her poise, style & elegance.
It was pleasant being around her, I cherish those memories.
You will be missed Ma.
Rest in peace ✝️

Nkechi & Seun Alex-Duduyemi

My Dearest Aunty
You were always there for me growing up, through school, Uni, work and on my return. I will never forget that day we truly bonded when we discussed all aspects of life, love, religion etc. thank you so much. Most of all thank you for being my mum’s best friend and confidant throughout her life. You left a big hole in all our lives and we are grateful you were here for us in the first place. Rest In Peace dear Aunty ❤️❤️

Life is too short to wake up in the morning with regrets. But I confess here, I regret no more ever able to see and talk to you again as planned in May, before you moved on! I sure miss you, dear. Continue to rest in peace then! Vince

Met MAMA once or twice in the late eighties...a wonderful caring ,loving and gentle mother, she made a lasting impression on me..May her soul meet with our Lord peacefully. AMEN

ADIEU MY DEAR AUNTY SHOLA

This is probably one of the most difficult tasks i have had to do. It still has not sunk in that my darling aunty Shola has passed on. I wish it were a dream! Alas it is true!

I first met you in 1980, when my husband drove me to your residence, this was to seek your validation of me and our relationship. He had told me, over and over, how much of a good hearted and truly sincere person you were, and your opinion mattered very much to him, as the wife of one of his closest and dearest friends uncle Alex. En route there I was petrified and kept praying.

Upon arriving and meeting you in person, there was an instant likeness between us and thus began our mother - daughter like relationship.

I can’t find words to describe your sterling qualities, my dear aunty Shola, you were such a jovial and kind person, there was never a dull moment when around you.

Over the years your advice, counsel and wisdom, was very helpful and instrumental to my ability to navigate early mother hood and raising my step-children simultaneously, most especially at the onset of my marriage and throughout the ensuing years. You were a fountain of wisdom for me, and I will always cherish the memories and love you showed me.

You were caring, nice and warm, you also gave me hard truths, whenever you felt I veered off course.

All good, are my memories of you:

I will always cherish the special memories of your generosity, hospitable nature, the many lunch and dinners held at your beautiful London home.

I remember being comfortable enough, to invite my close friends Mrs Morayo Fadipe and Mrs Isabella Onibudu, you were always accommodating and encouraging to us younger women, age was never a barrier to you. Simply put, you are one of the best of humanity that I’ve experienced!

I remember, when I ventured into the fashion business, you took my business growth to heart and greatly assisted with growing my client base, even making introductions, to your best friend, Aunty Dupe Akintola, Sisi Derele, Dr Omolara Adadevoh to mention a few. My friends even monikered you “The chairwoman of Ores’ adopted aunties” oh aunty! you were extremely cerebral, kind, a champion for justice and not known for pettiness.

Who would have known that the December 2019 lunch at your Ikoyi residence, attended by Ajiroba, myself and my son, would be the last face to face conversation we would have, just before the pandemic took over the world!

Man and medicine did their best, your loving husband did his best, your dotting children did their best, we still lost our dear aunty a reliable, tireless - fighter, a woman of integrity, beautiful inside and outside. We thank God for the privilege of knowing you, and enriching our lives with your presence. To me you will always be a big sister, that looked out for me at all times, until the end.

We celebrate your loss and are, reassured in the knowledge that you had an intimate relationship with God.

Uncle Kunle, children and grandchildren, I pray for Gods continued amazing grace and comfort on all of you, and trust that HE would grant you peace that surpasses all understanding in JESUS name, Amen.

My dear aunty Shola......Rest In Peace, in the bossom of the Lord.

Love, from Mrs Ore Williams

Mommy,
We know that a time comes when life ceases here and begins with God in heaven. Your homegoing caught me unawares. Your departure was so sudden. You did not even give any hint that you were going to be leaving so soon. Your exit seems unreal. You sounded so well on the phone all the time.
You have left a vacuum that no one can fill. You are that virtuous woman that is recorded in proverbs 31. You were energetic and strong. You planned things ahead. You knew what to do at the right time. You never failed in your duties. You have been a suitable helpmate for daddy. It's been said that behind a successful man there is a woman. That is who you are.
Even though we bury your body we will not bury your diligent efforts. We will not bury the concerns you carried. We will not bury your message. We love you but Jesus loves you best. May you continue to rest in peace mommy. Good night.
From Bola Daniyan.

To be blessed in life with Two Mothers.

Chief Mrs Stella Olushola Alex-Duduyemi, My other mother.

How can I start this tribute to a person that all my life was a mother to me. I grew up as a child knowing my Aunty Shola was always present in my life. She was always there, almost like a deep spiritual experience. It was a very special relationship that I feel blessed to have lived and shared with her.

To explain this, I have to go back to the very foundation roots of my existence. To something I always reflected and meditated about over the years and can only now call the Bola & Shola da-Silva’s Gold Medallion Coin existence.

This is the story of two sisters who in simple language were two sides of the same very tenacious coin. They were the same but at the same time different. These two women defined what women hood meant to me and who I am today, from a mothering perspective

One was my mother Bola and Shola was her sister. Same persons, same desires, same emotions, same dreams but expressed outwardly completely differently.

Bola was firm and stern, she expressed her mind and thoughts without any fears or favors. She will say what she needed to say to make her points and positions clear, irrespective of who was on the receiving end.

Shola was exactly the same, but she just had another style of expressing her feelings and positions. A more, calmer and gently way, she will smile and speak softly and charmingly lay out her own position without an iota of aggression or anger. Almost like keeping all her own sternness within.

But still, they were one person, both the same. Beautiful, pedigreed, strong willed, resolute and steadfast sisters and women of class in their chosen desires and objectives in life.

Bola always had to report my bad behaviors and wrong doings to Shola, who she called my mother. 

It was Aunty Shola that will call me to see her and explained everything my mother wanted of me in her own gentle, soft spoken and endearing style. She could charm and sweet talk you with her urbane sophisticated style. Always calm, no matter the pressure or issue she faced.

I never saw her ruffled in my life and I know she did have her own pains and issues like all humans do.

To understand what I mean about these two amazing da-Silva sisters and my mothers, you just have to take a pictorial journey back in time to get a view of their lives, especially after they married probably, the two most sociable men of their generation, Adekunle Alex-Duduyemi and Yinka Orobiyi Rhodes.

You will see hundreds of pictures of both of them together dressed in the same style lace attires or whatever was the most fashionable style of each seasons they were living at the time, always stylish elegant and full of class and setting the pace for their generation till the very end.

An enduring story my mother always told me about my Aunty Shola and which defines to me exactly who she is, was the day she met her beloved Husband and life partner Chief Adekunle Alex- Duduyemi and her firm and unbreakable decision that this gentleman no matter what, was going to be her partner for life. A love story and life journey that she took and was unbroken till her very last breath lasting over sixty years.

This enduring love story, may perhaps define the real legacy of her life, which could be her true and genuine loyalty to all she loved and cared for during her lifetime.

Her loyalty to her God, her husband, Chief Adekunle Alex- Duduyemi, her children, Banky, Lulu, Funmi, Bolanle and Dele, all her grand children, her sisters and brothers, family and friends and many more people who I cannot mention, who she touched in her special way during her journey through this her amazing life.

I thank God for your life my darling Aunty and Mother and pray God gives you the deserved peaceful rest angels like you were promised in paradise.

I shall miss you like I miss my mother every day of my remaining time in this world, but will remember you as one of the most amazing woman of substance that ever walked this path.

God bless you soul and thank you ma.

Koye Rhodes

*MY TRIBUTE TO AN EXEMPLARY MOTHER*

It was oddly difficult finding the right words for this tribute. But more onerous was receiving the sad news of your exit.

You loved so recklessly;
Generously giving wise counsel and everything you ever had to share.
The way only a mother could have shown care.

To a matriarch, a jewel and pathfinder!
We will live our days to remember your humility and selflessness.

We will miss you sorely;
As time will fail to contain the pain of your loss.
Nonetheless, we remain consoled by the assurance to join in the bliss you now enjoy eternally.


Rest in the bosom of our Lord.
Till we meet on His glorious day.
Adieu!

To my Elegant Mama and Mentor

As I write this, I smile with the sweet memories of the words of wisdom you shared with me even till a week before you left. You were always there for me like a mother would, you mentored me in many ways than one. You shaped my life in so many ways. I smile knowing you are in a better place, I smile knowing that your memory will be with me forever and your sweet legacy will live on. Sleep well Mummy Alex-Duduyemi.
I will forever love you.

Nike Adesakin-Olayinka

Thank you a million times my beloved sister.

Thank you for giving me and my children
a place in your world.

Thank you for listening and counselling.

Thank you for encouragement in the face
of challenges.

Thank you for uplifting when my road was
bumpy.

Thank you for your inspiration when I saw
the sky as hazy.

Thank you for your prescription to watch
Judge Judy, your favourite tv program as
remedy for low spirits.

Thank you for welcoming all and sundry
young and old to the warmth of your home.
You had a big heart to make everyone around
you happy, comfortable and relaxed.

Thank you for kindness and generosity.

Thank you for being a true Christian.

My thank you list is inexhaustible.

No! I have not lost my beloved sister.

Her beautiful, loving and cherished memories
will stay with me for all of my life.

She has part of my heart forever.

Rest in perfect peace Yeye Aro of Ile Ife.

And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. (John 11:26)

On March 8th, 2021 Chief (Mrs) Stella Olushola Alex Duduyemi went home to continue joyful activity in Light Realms. She simply left the physical weak body. She went from life to life!!! She is now completely healed, whole. No more pain and no more tears. We shall all miss her physical presence, but we're comforted by the very fact that she lives in our hearts.

Who can find a virtuous woman? For her price is far above rubies. (Proverbs 31: 10)

She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy. (Proverbs 31:20)

Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates. (Proverbs 31:31)

Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy Lord. (Matthew 25:21)

For ye shall go out with joy, and be led forth with peace; the mountains and the hills shall break forth before you into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands. (Isaiah 55:12).

We love you Mum!!!

Death ends a life, not a relationship.
This quote has helped me come to terms with the passing of my dear aunt- Chief (Mrs.) Stella Olushola Alex-Duduyemi and although she's no longer here in her earthly form, our memories together will live on. Losing You has been a terrible blow, for in many respects, you were more than a mother to me. And with a relationship that started with my grandmother, to my mother, down to us and most especially to me, you will be sorely missed. The impact you made in my life will forever be remembered and appreciated, memories and moments shared will forever be cherished. You left a remarkable Legacy here on earth and have raised the bar on what should be expected from a woman of substance such as yourself. I was so privileged to have you as my aunt. You played such a crucial role in our family and you were an outstanding example for family Values. My only wish is that we could have had you for longer. I can rest assured that someday we'll see again at the resurrection where we shall meet to part no more. May the Lord bless you for living a life that will be an inspiration for generations to come. We the children of Mrs Titilola Fagbohun will miss you. We love and cherish you.

Mummy words cannot describe how deeply pained I was when I heard of your passing. Your gentle smile will be greatly missed. Your motherly advice will remain in my left hand. Sleep well mummy. Goodnight!!!!! And Rest In Peace

Eternally Rest Aunty Shola

Aunty Shola was the best friend of my elder sister and her genuine friend. She was our closest family friend; an Honorary member of our family, always there to provide support no matter the situation. 

Aunty Shola was an impressive dancer, friendly, intelligent, warm, cool, elegant and fashionable!

Mama Dele, Rest in the Lord. Good Night.

Honorary little sister,
Mrs. Bose Awowale
Putney, London.