•As Family Members & Friends Pay Tribute To Her
Last Friday, 29th January, 2021 the remains of Princess Rosemary Obiageli Dacosta-Adebutu (JP) was laid to rest. She died on 9th January 2021. The order of Funeral Mass was held at The Church of The Assumption Falomo, Ikoyi at 10am and at lasted 2 hours. The service ended at 12 noon. The officiating priests were Rev. Fr. Pius Omofunwa (Parish Priest) and Rev. Fr Vincent Bankole (Asst Parish Priest).
Prince Rosemary Obiageli Dacosta-Adebutu (JP) was born on the 8th of May, 1953, in Jos, Plateau State, to the family of Prince Chike Nwaokolo and Princess Veronca Nwaokolo of Umuodafe, Idumobi Odanta, Ibusa, Delta State.
She was the 1st of 11 siblings and the young Rosemary, from a tender age was poised to become a star and conquer the world!
She attended Mary Mount College Agbor for her secondary education and came to Lagos to assist her mother’s cousin, who had just had a baby and continue her education, but fate had other plans for her. Princess Rosemary Obiageli Dacosta-Adebutu (JP) was a drop dead beauty; slim, tall, light-complexioned and elegant and before she knew it, she had landed herself a job as a talk show host at NTA together with the late Dare Art-Alade (Senior) and was later to be advised to join the Miss Nigeria Pageant of 1973. She emerged 2nd runner-up and bagged the title “Miss Legs”. A title which was to become her attributional adjective for the rest of her life. It is rumored that this was the first attraction for her husband and father of her only daughter, Sir Kesington Adebukunola Adebutu when their paths first crosses in London, England in
1981. Sir Kesington Adebukunola Adebutu was smitten by Rosemary’s beauty the very moment he set his eyes upon her and he did not stop until he wooed her, married her and the union produced an only daughter; Temitope Adebutu-Obasanjo who was the apple of Rosemary’s eyes. Sir Kesington’s Love for Rosemary was further exemplified when he stormed Ibusa, Delta State in company of his late bosom friends; Chief Solomon Adebayo Ayoku and Prince Akintoye (both of blessed memory) to bury Rosemary’s father, Prince Chike Nwaokolo who passed away on the 9th of April, 1984 when Temitope, Rosemary’s daughter was only 2 weeks old.
Princess Rosemary Obiageli Dacosta-Adebutu lived a life of service to God and humanity. She was principled, tough, God-fearing, honest and truthful, no matter whose ox was gored, and generous to a fault. These are some of her attributes that she would be remembered for. Rosemary was also the life of the party and belle of the ball, always dressed to the nines and well pooled together. She wore the best of clothes right through her adolescence and adulthood and could never be faulted in the fashion department. No, not once Her love for colours and high-end accessories was also legendary.
As a grass-root politician, Rosemary was a stalwart of the defunct National Republican Convention (NRL) and later the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and she worked closely with Alhaji Bamanga Tukur & High Chief Raymond Alegho Dokpesi. In her days at the National Republican Convention. Rosemary was fearless, powerful, influential, strong and a goal-getter. There was no impossible in her dictionary and she went all out for the people she loved. She loved God fiercely and passionately and she dedicated the whole of her life serving the Almighty God. May her gentle soul rest in perfect peace. Amen.
She is survived by her husband, daughter, grandchildren and her larger family.
What can we say unto the Lord?
All we could say is ‘thank you Lord’. My dear mum. My dear advocate for increased pocket money. My great dancing partner while in school in London as a young man. From those very first moments I shared with you and dad, I was carried away by the need for strength and determination alas what happens when the body fails? Sadness is beyond what can be said.
These memories formed the foundations of a very special relationship. We could talk and understand ourselves when others couldn’t. I will surely miss you, a lovely, generous and gregarious spirit please live on in the Lord, your son Ladi.
– Honorable Oladipupo Adebutu
On Saturday morning, 11.00am, Tope called me as I was driving out of the gate of my house in Abuja to run some errands. We spoke, laughed and joked catching up on family gist. As we finished the call, our prayer was that 2021 would be better than 2020. On my way back still driving, I received a joint call from Bolanle and Yemi notifying me of the passing of Tope’s mum. It is amazing how life could change drastically in a matter of hours.
Mama Tope was a loving and caring mother.
Tope and her mother related more like sisters rather than mother and daughter. I know that a big void is left in Tope’s life. I pray that God Almighty would comfort the whole family during this difficult time. May her soul rest in perfect peace. Tope rest assured that you are not alone in this journey of life. WE LOVE YOU.
– Abiola Olorode
Eldest Sister
A TRIBUTE TO MRS. ROSEMARY ADEBUTU
There is a popular saying that “It takes a village to raise a child”. This saying is certainly true of my life.
Growing up, I was blessed to be surrounded by a plethora of Daddies, Mummies, Uncles and Aunties who were able to step in at any particular time to provide the love, support and nurturing needed. I am happy to have had her as part of ‘My village’.
I remember going to visit her when my sister, Tope, was born. She could not contain her excitement at how much Tope and I looked alike. I like to think she also encouraged Tope to be a lawyer to follow in my footsteps ….. Lol!
When I got married, she was particularly thrilled that I married an Igbo man. She was very fond of my husband with whom they regularly bantered away in “their special language” whenever they were together. She also affectionately referred to my sons as “Oko mi”.
A few years back, we lived in the same area and she would constantly check on us and bring us meals from time to time. She was very caring and extremely protective of those she loved.
It was with great shock and sadness that my family received the news of her passing on. She will surely be missed and I pray for comfort and fortitude for our whole family at this time.
– Mrs. Abolanle Matel-Okoh
A HEART FELT TRIBUTE
Wow!! I didn’t think I would be writing this at this time. You left us so suddenly, but God knows best. Over the years, you lovingly called me ‘Oko mi’, I surely would miss you calling me that. I remember you as kind, generous and thoughtful and never wanting to hurt anyone’s feelings.
I recollect the times when you would visit at Marble house; you would engage me in conversations for extended periods of time, you seem to have a story to teach and to drive home a word of advice or rebuke. You said it as you hoped it would help me understand the point. You were fashionable and your dress sense was a deviation from what I had been accustomed to at that time, but I admired you all the same.
Still trying to come to terms with your passage and it seems words are failing me at this time.
Your memory would remain evergreen in my heart. Sleep well, I would miss you.
– Adeyemi Olusoji
REMEMBERING MRS ROSEMARY ADEBUTU
A strong, intelligent, warm, and charismatic woman – that was Chief Mrs. Rosemary Adebutu.
I was one of those people lucky enough to have more than one mum and she was among my favourite. She wasn’t a mother to me alone but a mother to all. A fellow Taurean, it was no surprise that her amiable nature helped her get along with most people. ‘Mama-Mia’ (this was what I called her) it was a rude shock to receive the news of your passing away and a ‘ruder shock’ as the days have passed and the realisation hits that we won’t see you again till the Lord calls us all.
Till then we will all take care of Tope and help her make you even prouder of her.
At the best of times, it can be hard to find the right words to express oneself, and at the worst of times, it might be quite the opposite.
No one wants to lose a loved one and those two words are apt in this case – you are /were loved.
Thank you for the love and attention you gave us all unselfishly. It is fair to say that you will be missed ‘Mama-mia’.
Your Son
– Segun Adebutu
Each man’s death diminishes me, For I am involved in mankind. Therefore, send not to know. For whom the bell tolls. It tolls for thee. – John Donne
GONE TOO SOON
Your pleasantness with me will always be remembered and appreciated. I think of my sister at this difficult time as the bond you both had was as strong, loyal and close as none other I’ve witnessed.
I wish you eternal peace as you ascend to the loving arms of the Lord.
– Babatunde Adebutu
MY SWEET MUMMY
My dearest mother, I have been inconsolable since you passed on to eternal glory. It still looks like a dream to me, we didn’t plan it this way. I was hoping you would see my children and carry them in your arms, but the Almighty God is unquestionable.
I am grateful to God that you went to God peacefully. I’m still in a rude shock but my consolation remains in Christ Jesus. It is well as words fail me at this time. All my love,
– Temitope Adebutu-Obasanjo
Sister, it is very sad to hear that you have passed on. I thought you will still be with us for more years.
Adieu my good and lovely sister, rest in the bosom of the Lord till we meet to part no more.
– Ngozi Nwaokolo
My dear and lovely sister, if death were to be a man; He would not take you away because you are a strong woman, but death is a debt everybody will pay one day and it is from God.
May your soul rest in perfect peace. Amen
– Onyeisi Nwaokolo
Sweet sister, you had been on my mind for the last few months and I regret not reaching out to you. There was something I was sensing, a kind of soul connection. I hope someday, when I feel those tugs of spiritual communion, I’ll be more inclined to act. I want you to know how much your life meant to me. But sadly you are gone to be with the Lord. I love you sweet sister and you will forever live in my heart.
– Nkem Uhuegbue!!!
It was the saddest day of my life when I got the news of your passing on and still is. I will miss you dearly because your death was a great loss to our family. Rest in the bosom of the Almighty God till we meet to part no more. Rest on great sister.
– Egomdi Nwaokolo
A TRIBUTE ON BEHALF OF MY FAMILY
This tribute goes to my dearest mum, biggest sister, who died on the 9th of January, 2021. As I can say, some part of me are already dead.
I grew up to know you as the breadwinner of our family. You have been of great help to my immediate family.
My sister, you were a great philanthropist that always gave help to the needy.
Since you died, my life has never been the same because you had always been my idol, icon and who I respect so much and hold in high esteem. May the good Lord bless you and rest your soul in His bosom. Amen.
Your youngest brother,
– Chinedu Nwaokolo
Big mummy, the news of your death came as a shock to me because we spoke a few days to that fateful day. Death came too early. Grandma as I fondly call you, you were a strong woman.
I will miss you dearly. Rest in perfect peace of the Almighty God.
– Emmy Okonkwo
DEAR MOTHER
You were the truest, dearest, such a loving mother to me, who showed love to everyone around her. I saw you last on Saturday morning, you spoke to me well, only for me to leave and received a call 2 hours later, that you were gone .. My mama, that’s what I call you .. I miss you. I miss you .. If roses grow in heaven, Lord please pick a bunch for me, place them in mommy’s arms and tell her that I love her.
You were always there for me, even when I did something wrong, you were always there for me, Mama .. I love you and miss you.
May you find peace and rest in God’s arms forever.
– Ogohchukwu Aniemena
Aunty Rosemary, it is hard to believe that the angels have carried you home at a time we least expected. We hardly take in the fact that your sudden demise had unexpectedly terminated the moments we enjoyed with you.
I do wonder if we will ever find anyone to take your place! You left a hollow and no one could ever fill halfway.
I love you so much sweet Aunty Rosemary!!
– Onyeije Uhuegbue
It is amazing the things you realise when you lose someone, you get mad at yourself for not saying the things you could have said a million times. You take for granted the days spent doing nothing when you could have been with them ….. Big mummy as we call you … you were a blessing to us all. .. you will live on in my heart forever … Rest in Power
– Chika James
I still can’t believe that you are no more on the surface of the earth, when the news of your death came, I was so pained in my heart, but we can’t question God why He allowed this to happen at this time. I pray your soul rest in the bosom of our Lord Jesus, you will forever remain in my heart. Rest on ma.
– Nkem Nwaokolo (Small)
I am honoured to say a few words about my Aunt, Rosemary, She was a cheerful, fun-loving lady, who was full of life.
Her smile could light up a room and it was so adorable. She made everyone around her happy.
Whether it was a funny joke, her positive attitude, or her big smile, she was a delight to be around.
I love you big sweet Aunty Rosemary!
– Onyeisi Uhuegbue
I was so privileged to have you as my very special aunt who meant so very much to me. You were such an important part of our family. If only we could have you here longer, your time was so short, while you were here with us. I am so grateful that some day I will see you again and get to spend eternity with you.
– Agiliga Uhuegbue
WONDERFUL AUNT
We had a wonderful aunt, One who never really grew old; Her smile was made of sunshine, And her heart was solid gold;
Her eyes were as bright as shining stars. And in her cheeks fair roses you see.
We had a wonderful aunt. And that’s the way it will always be. But take heed, because. She’s still keeping an eye on all of us, So let’s make sure she will like what she sees.
– Nkechi Onwuachi
Please accept my heartfelt sympathy on the death of your Mummy, Chief Mrs Rosemary Adebutu.
I pray that the Almighty God comforts you and the entire family and grant you the fortitude and the grace to bear the irreplaceable loss. Amen
May her gentle soul rest in perfect peace. Amen. My regards to the family.
– Chief (Dr) Mrs Nike Akande CON
AUNTY BOLUS
That’s what mummy used to call me. Mummy was a beautiful soul. Life … Life really does happen. I met mummy during my American stay in Nigeria. (Marina days). We clicked, right away. Mummy talked; and I listened.
Even when I didn’t talk to mummy, for a bit, We always made up for lost time. Covid-19, then came.
Mummy, became my distant mama. But I still managed to see, Mummy.
I was so, busy with our praise and thanksgiving, towards the end of the year, that it did not even occur to me that, I had not spoken to mummy during Christmas and after the holidays.
Surprisingly, we mentioned mummy at home, probably God was trying to tell me something.
When Tope called to break the news of demise of her mom, I was in a noisy, environment, so it was not audible.
She then sent a text. On reading Tope’s text, message, ‘my mother is dead. Something actually died inside me. I was so afraid for Tope.
How would Tope live without mummy? Those were my concerns. But God is a faithful God.
We do not put our trust in horses, Nor chariots, our trust is in the Lord, the giver of life, the author and finisher of our faith. The all seeing and all knowing God. After visiting Tope, I was at peace.
I thank God that mummy raised Tope well.
I was shocked when Tope was quoting Bible verses, effortlessly.
So, the Bible verse, Proverbs 22:6, came to life. “Train your child the way of the Lord; And when she’s old she will not depart from it”.
Mama Tope, abiyamo tooto, Esun re ma. Till we meet again.
– Bola Awokoya
My Lord, My condolences on the death of Mummy. May Almighty God comfort you and strengthen you. May her soul rest in peace. Mummy was indeed a great personality.
My colleague who met her only once has not stopped talking about her humility and kindness, not to talk of her legendary generosity. The family is in my prayers. Ojo a jina sira.
Lanre Akinsola
I am so sorry to hear about the unfortunate passing away of your Mum. I know there are no words to express my sympathy. May God grant you the strength, courage and fortitude to bear the loss.
– Funsho Obasanjo
I have the mandate of the CM Admin to convey the heartfelt sympathy of each members of MAN, Ogun State to you on the loss of your dear mum. We pray the good God will grant you the fortitude to endure the loss.
I am also directed to assure you of the readiness of the association to standby you at this trying time.
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