Ladies and gentlemen, brothers and sisters in faith.
Today, we gather in this sacred space with heavy hearts to pay tribute to a soul so dear to us, my beloved niece, Oduraa. She was not just a niece; she was like a daughter to me, a precious gift entrusted to our family. …and there was absolutely nothing that I wouldn’t have done for her.
I wish I had come to visit you in Clemson, when you couldn’t make it to the family re-union in California in September 2022 due to your tight academic work schedules.
It is with profound grief that we bid farewell to you, taken from us under such tragic circumstances far away from home.
Oduraa was very special, special because of numerous reasons, chiefly because she was my beloved mothers first grandchild, my elder brothers first daughter…she brought some tenderness into our boys dormitory home.
From the moment Oduraa came into our lives, she wrapped us in her warmth and love. Her laughter filled our hearts with joy, and her tender spirit left an indelible mark on our souls. I remember holding her as a baby, her tiny fingers clutching mine, a bond formed in that instant that would grow and strengthen with each passing day…….and I loved carrying her on my shoulders……
As Oduraa blossomed into a young girl, her eyes sparkled with wonder, and her curiosity knew no bounds. She was a bundle of energy, and her playful spirit filled our home with happiness. Whether she was exploring the world around her or asking endless questions about life’s mysteries, her insatiable thirst for knowledge was evident.
As the years rolled on, Oduraa transformed into a remarkable young woman. Her dedication to her studies was unparalleled, and she excelled in everything she put her mind to. Yet, amidst her academic achievements, she never lost sight of what truly mattered – the love and connections she fostered with those around her.
Oduraa had a heart of gold, compassionate and caring. She touched the lives of everyone she encountered, offering a listening ear, a comforting hug, and unwavering support. She was a friend, a confidante, and a pillar of strength for many, and her absence will be felt profoundly.
In her kindness, she sowed seeds of love that will continue to blossom long after her departure. The memories we shared, the adventures we embarked on together, and the laughter we echoed will forever be etched in the tapestry of our lives.
Though the pain of losing her seems unbearable, we find solace in the knowledge that Oduraa’s spirit is now free, embraced by the loving arms of our heavenly Father. She has transcended this earthly realm and found peace in the eternal embrace of divine love.
As we mourn her loss, let us also celebrate the beautiful soul she was. Let us cherish the memories of her infectious laughter, her bright smile, and her compassionate heart. Let her life be a beacon, guiding us to love more deeply, to be kinder, and to cherish the time we have with those we hold dear.
Dear Oduraa, my love, my cherished niece, you were a blessing to us all, and your absence leaves a void that cannot be filled. As we bid you farewell, we do so with a heavy heart but also with gratitude for the time we were blessed to spend with you. Your legacy of love will forever live on in our hearts.
May your spirit find eternal peace, knowing that you were deeply loved and cherished. Rest well, sweet angel, until we meet again in that heavenly realm where there are no goodbyes.
Amen.