By Regina Igwebuike
Assumption Catholic Church, Nimo in Njikoka LGA, was filled to capacity on November 13, as family, friends, parishioners, and well-wishers gathered to bid a final farewell to Pa Simon Amakeze, aged 85, a man widely known for his truthfulness, honor, and unwavering integrity.
The solemn Requiem Mass was presided over by the Catholic Bishop of Awka Diocese, Most Rev. Paulinus C. Ezeokafor, in the company of a large bloc of priests, religious sisters from various congregations, and the Catholic faithful. The outpouring of love and presence of dignitaries from all walks of life reflected the deep respect and admiration held for the late Pa Amakeze.
Until his passing, Pa Amakeze was a devout Catholic and a dedicated church warden who committed his life to the service of God and humanity. He exemplified what it meant to live a life of faith, duty, and humility.
In his heartfelt homily, Bishop Ezeokafor extolled the virtues of the late patriarch, noting that eternal salvation is the reward of those who live and die in Christ. “Salvation is not automatic. It requires a life of devotion, sacrifice, and service and Pa Amakeze embodied all of these,” he emphasized.
The prelate highlighted that the late Amakeze was deeply conscious of eternity, not only through his personal commitment as a full-time church warden but also through the gift of his son, Rev. Fr. Kenneth Amakeze, to the priesthood. “He gave his son to serve in God’s vineyard, a mark of profound faith and trust in God’s will,” Ezeokafor remarked.
He also reminded the congregation that the month of November, dedicated to praying for the faithful departed, is a time to reflect on life after death and intercede for the souls in purgatory. He offered prayers for the peaceful repose of Pa Amakeze’s soul.
As the community mourns, they also celebrate a life well lived, a life marked by deep faith, selfless service, and moral uprightness. Pa Simon Amakeze leaves behind a legacy of truth, devotion, and godliness that will continue to inspire generations to come.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Fr. Amakeze said that their father was Innovative and forward-thinking, he was a man ahead of his time, always seeking better ways to solve problems and uplift those around him. He loved his family deeply, cared for his brothers, and nurtured unity with wisdom and grace. Above all, he knew God and walked humbly in faith.
And by his side, our mother; a woman of deep faith, inner strength, and enduring love. Her prayers remain the backbone of our family. In our pain, she consoles us; in our uncertainty, her faith lifts us. We pray that God continues to strengthen her and bless her with long life, for she is a rare jewel whose faith inspires us all.
We fondly call him Ossai Igwe — a name that resonates with dignity, strength, and unwavering truth. He was a man of deep conviction, a lover of peace, and a pillar of integrity. He lived his life guided by strong values, never wavering in his stand for what is right, even when it was not popular. He believed in the truth, spoke it boldly, and accepted the consequences with calm resolve. In a world often marked by compromise, he remained steadfast and that, above all, earned him both admiration and respect.
Ossai Igwe was not just a man of principles — he was a man of action. Industrious to the core, he was a tireless worker, a provider, a protector, and a leader. He gave his best in all he did and instilled in us the virtues of hard work, honesty, and focus. His legacy to us his children and family is clear and timeless: “Be truthful. Be resilient. Be focused. Be optimistic. These weren’t just words he said, they were values he lived every day.”
Our father lived a full, meaningful life, marked not by riches or fame, but by honor, impact, and legacy. His memory is a blessing, and his values live on in us. We are proud to be his. And though we miss him dearly, we celebrate the life of a truly great man — a man of peace, truth, and unwavering love. Rest well, your light will never dim.
Regina is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
May his soul rest in peace