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What He & His Siblings Will Miss About Mama
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The Story Of Chief (Mrs.) FLORENCE ADUKE ODUNUYI Reveals
Chief (Mrs.) Florence Aduke Odunuyi was born 92 years ago to Pa Josiah Ilesanmi Alo and Madam Felicia Arinola Alo (both of blessed memory) in Ilesa East Local Government, Ilesa, Osun State, Nigeria.
Chief (Mrs.) Florence Aduke Odunuyi exhibited a high sense of responsibility and began her early life as a trader under the tutelage of her mother in Osogbo, Osun State. She later returned to Ilesa to learn fashion design (known as “sewing” in those days). Upon completing her training, she opened her own fashion design institute in Ilesa and married Mr. Samuel Olaleye Oriowo (of blessed memory).
Due to her creativity, passion, hard work, and patience, she became a household name, with 6 apprentices under her tutelage. She later moved to Lagos, where she continued her business and married Chief Moses Adebayo Odunuyi.
Chief (Mrs.) Florence Aduke Odunuyi was a quiet and easy-going woman, loved by her siblings, relatives, friends, and neighbors. She was a central figure and a unifier in the Alo family, where she was born and raised. She was very hospitable and compassionate.
Chief (Mrs.) Florence Aduke Odunuyi was a communicant and a devout Christian. She attended Bola Memorial Anglican Church, Ikeja, where she was appointed Matron of the Fountain of Hope and Oreofe societies in the church. She served God and humanity until her passing into eternity.
Chief (Mrs.) Florence Aduke Odunuyi will forever be remembered as a woman who did not live for herself alone but for the betterment of all those around her and in service to God. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of her family and all who had the privilege of knowing her.
She is survived by four children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Arc. (Sir.) Olusegun Alo (Brother).
TRIBUTE TO OUR MUMMY, MRS FLORENCEADUKE ODUNUYI
Mummy, paying you a tribute is like writing your profile sparining over Seventy years, since I grew up to know all my siblings. Each time I played back scenes from the times and things we shared together, I give glory to God that every scene that I could recall from my memory is something I will treasure and never forget for as long as I live.
The Yoruba song describes how mummy was to all of us. “Iya ni wura iyebiye, ti a ko le f’owora”. She was indeed mother to her blood children, siblings, and relations.
Our mummy never departed from the story our late mother told me about her being always there for me as the last child of our parents, when I was a baby. Up till the day she was called to glory, I held her in highest esteem and remained first among equals in her life. She extended this uncommon love to all my children who call her Grandma Ikeja. She radiated her love not only to her siblings but also to the entire families from the mother and father sides, friends and her immediate community. They knew her as Mama Ijesa in Ikeja where she resided.
Our mummy has four unsurpassed attributes: Uncommon love for all and sundry (as mentioned above), Contentment, Patience, Hospitality per excellence.
Mummy was very contented. Her secrete of happiness at all times was just being contented with where
she was and what she was doing. No wonder, she lived up to the ripe age of 92 years.
Mummy was very patient and attended to many visitors as they came in, one after the other in her apartment. She was a quiet and easy going person.
Our mummy was a carbon copy of our late mother in many respects. She did not acquire hospitality but inherited it. Many times, I wondered how she managed financially to entertain daily visitors, not with drinks but robust food items. As soon as any visitor came in at any time of the day, after exchange of greetings, the next remark/question was “kini e ma je” i.e what would you eat? Mummy was a wonderful giver not only to her siblings but also those who have crossed her life, spanning 92 years. She has touched many uncountable lives.
We give God the glory and adoration for the life, well spent by our mummy, worthy of emulation.
Mummy, Rest In Perfect Peace, Till We Meet To Part No More!!! Adieu!l!
Arc. (Sir) OlusegunAlo
My cousin, my auntie, my mummy. The matriarch of the Alo dynasty is no more. Your love, understanding, and accommodating disposition have created a huge vacuum in our extended family. Your home was a place of refuge. There was always food for everyone in your house, and it was the same food you ate-always available for sharing. You took everyone’s problems as personal challenges. You gave your time and resources to advance the welfare of our extended family. Thank you for being a good
mummy to us all. May the good Lord grant you eternal rest.
Engr. Olu and Dr. (Mrs.)Adetutu Olarewaju-Alo
TRIBUTE TO OUR MUMMY, MRS FLORENCE ADUKE ODUNIYI
The devil has done its worst, and my dear Mama Ikeja, who loved me until her last breath, is no more. She came to my father in 1973 to ask for my hand in marriage, representing my parents-in-law with so much grace. From that moment, she was a constant presence in my life, always supporting and caring for me.
She had a special way of looking out for me, often saying, “Idowu Ogbo, ‘Kuwa a je” – asking what I wanted to eat before I even arrived in Ikeja, Lagos.
During my pregnancy, she took care of me while I stayed in Itire, and afterward, she helped me settle in with Uncle Busuyi of blessed memory in Palmgrove, Lagos. Her visits were always filled with love, care, and advice, especially reminding me to take good care of my children. Even when my children were getting married, she was by my side, bringing her friends along, ensuring that we were surrounded by love and support. She would often ask for my “wait-and-get” Amala, a testament to her affection and how much she cherished me.
She loved me deeply, and as I reflect on her life, all I can say is “Thank you, Lord.” She didn’t suffer in her final days and was able to enjoy life until the end. Now, she rests peacefully among the saints. May God grant us, her family, the strength to bear this great loss. We are grateful that she lived a full life, uniting the family with love and care. Can we all join in singing, “A o pade lese Jesu,” knowing that we shall meet again in glory.
God bless us all
With love and gratitude,
Mrs. Margaret Idowu Alo
(Mama Dimeji)
Mama mi Aduke Olopoewa, Afinju Ijesha to rin gbendeke. My own mother, what can I really say about your enigmatic personality that could accurately describe you … apparently NONE!
An epitome of discipline, compassion, generosity, and godliness. A very kind mother with the utmost
sense of humor.
You brought us all up to be sparkling neat and believe that anything worth doing at all is worth doing well.
Mummy, you were the symbol of cleanliness.
Your capacity to accommodate all and sundry is just unimaginable, and I wonder what planet you came from, as I never came across anyone comparable to you.
Adesola seems to have inherited that, though … she’s your real daughter, undoubtedly.
My mother, Florence Aduke, aya OtunbaAdebayo Odunuyi (Asorebienigo),
I simply could not have wished for a better mother and this father. I thank God Almighty for being so
blessed. Together you formed the pillar and the rock upon which I stand today.
God Almighty will surely prolong the life of Daddy in good health, for he has done extremely well for
humanity. I will forever adorehirn for the rest of my life. Thank you, Daddy.
Mummy, thank you for being that good woman who made Daddy proudly marry you with your two
toddlers. He never knew us as, nor called us, stepchildren. I, Laiwola, your son, was more or less a
pampered child (not spoilt) by Daddy, Otunba Moses Adebayo Odunuyi… simply because you distinguished yourself as a worthy woman …
A symbol of what every woman should be.
Mummy, you will definitely be my mother again when next I come to this world. I loved and still love you implicitly. Miss you. Rest in perfect peace eternally.
Your loving son,
Aremu ogo, Omo Aregunl’opa Oranmiyan
Otunba Lai Oriowo
Mummy Ikeja was a woman of remarkable kindness, strength, and grace, someone who welcomed
everyone into her home with open arms. From the moment I met her, she offered me support, love, and guidance that I will cherish forever. Her warmth and compassion touched the lives of so many, and her presence filled any room with comfort and joy. She had a way of making everyone feel valued, and her patient love was a steady anchor in our lives.
Though she may no longer be with us, her spirit and the life lessons she shared remain with us. I am grateful for the love she gave so freely, and will always remember her with love and admiration. Rest in peace, dear Mummy. We miss you deeply and win carry your memory in our heart always.
Adetutu Oriowo
A tribute to my great mother, it’s hard to put into words just how much she meant to me and how deeply she shaped who I am. My mother wasn’t just a parent; she was a constant source of strength, kindness, and love in my life. Her presence was calm yet powerful, always steady and sure, and she bad a way of making everyone feel welcome and cared for.
One of the characteristics about my mother that stands out is how kind and pleasant she was to everyone she met. She had an effortless ability to make people feel at ease, whether it was a neighbor, a friend, or a stranger. My mother treated everyone with respect and kindness. But beneath that kindness was also a deep strength. Maami was strong-willed, determined, and always stood her ground when it came to what she believed in.
There are so many more characteristics 1 can share, but what stands out most to me is how much she loved her family deeply. She was always there for us, no matter what. Whether we were celebrating, facing challenges, or just going about our day-to-day lives, her love was a constant.
One of her great joys in life was uplifting others. She found fulfillment in her church and in helping people. But she also found joy in the little things, like making sure her guests enjoyed delicious meals and keeping a home that always felt welcoming and tidy.
As a mother, Maami (or Mama Ikeja, as we often called her) was a loving and warm person. She embodied love, charity, and hospitality. Those were the pillars of her life, and they are the things I will
carry with me forever. She gave’ without expecting anything in return and opened her heart and home to everyone. ‘
One thing she would always tell me, especially in moments when I needed to hear it, was to calm down.
“Mama Seyi ni suru,” those words, so simple yet so profound, always brought me back to a place of peace.
It’s something I still hear in my heart today.
Maami had an incredible ability to bring calm into any situation, and I will always remember that.
As I reflect on her life, I realize just how much of who I am today comes from her. She taught me the
importance of love, of being there for people, and of staying strong, no matter what life throws my way.
Her legacy is one of love, charity, and hospitality.
Mom, I miss you more than words can say. I miss your smile, your wisdom, and the way you could make everything better just by being there. But I know that your love is still with me, and it always will be. You may be gone, but your spirit lives on in the way you shaped our lives and in the love you left behind.
Rest in peace, Mom. We will always carry you in our hearts.
Adesola Akibo
To the woman whose heart knew no limits, Mama was more than just a mother, grandmother, or matriarch-she was a living example of unconditional love and generosity.
She was known to some as Mama Kayode, Mama Ikeja and to most as simply as Maami. Words may not capture the fullness of her heart, but I hope they can express the deep gratitude we all feel for having known her.
Family to Mama was not limited to blood relations. She held court for anyone who needed her, offering emotional and financial support to those who came seeking her wisdom.
Maami wasn’t just a mother-in-law, a grandmother or great grandmother, she was a beacon of love and kindness, and her influence will continue to live on in all of us who bad the privilege of knowing her.
Today, we say farewell to a woman whose life was a testament to love, humility, and unity.
Thank you, Maami, for everything. You will forever be in our hearts.
Adekunle Akibo
My dearest Mother, My Angel, My treasure
My heart is broken but I take comfort in the fact that you lived well to a ripe old age. Knowing that you led a godly and remarkable life gives me extra strength to bear losing you. You were not only my Mother you were my confidant, counselor and personal person.
Many have done well but you exceed them all. I call you blessed and a blessing. Continue to rest in the
bosom of the Lord till we meet to part no more.
Good night mom.
Kayode Odunuyi
Your son
Grandma Ikeja was a dependable tower of strength; a solid rock. I thank God for her long and purposeful life. Every conversation was filled with kindness. Grandma understands and genuinely connects with people. You can always count-on her to crack you up with laughter as she reels out fascinating stories while travelling down memory. Leave it to Grandma to give you great advice and practical solutions to your concerns. She had impeccable taste and always wanted the best for all those she loved.
She will be sorely missed but her legacy lives on. Her wisdom, her warmth, her heart warming meals, her generosity and most of all her excellent spirit are forever etched in my fondest memories of her and I will carry that with me always.
Sleep on Mama, we love you dearly.
Bimbola Odunuyi
(Daughter-in-law)
My wonderful Mom
My mother was one of the kindest humans to grace this planet. Without her I wouldn’t be the person I am, and 1 wouldn’t have the life 1 have. My mother was the first born of sixteen children. She did not believe in any unilateral decision. She was so accommodating to a fault and adopted many children. My mother was the best mother a person could ask for, Thank you, mom for everything.
There are no goodbyes from me, because wherever you are, you will always be in my heart.
Love you mum.
Dupe Samuel
ADIEUMAAMI
Our Mum, Chief (Mrs.) Florence Aduke Odunuyi, was an amazing, caring, loving, and God-fearing woman.
She was always concerned for the well-being of others over her own. Her show of immeasurable kindness and generosity to everyone she came in contact with inspired us.
Her home was open to all, and she gave willingly without asking for anything in return. In appreciation of her generosity, her neighbors, called her “Mama Ya Ko Yo.”
She served God devotedly during her active years, contributing to the spiritual and financial growth of her church.
I thank God for the legacy you left behind.
Rest in peace, Maami.
Dame Adebisi Soluade
Daughter
Dear Mom
Thank you for always loving me and guiding me. Even though you are no longer with us, I can still feel
your love guiding me. You were never afraid to be my mother to put your foot down, to teach me right from wrong. You always let me know I had a mother who cared about me, believed in me, and was always there no matter what. You were an embodiment of loving kindness, discipline, and an unshakeable faith in the Almighty God whom you served till the moment of your transition. Your sweet memories shall remain permanent in my heart. It is therefore with a brave heart that 1 bid you farewell till we meet again at the feet of Christ on the resurrection morning. May your beautiful soul rest in perfect peace. Amen.
Dr. Collins Oduniyi
OH, What a great loss.
You were indeed a mother, a role model, and a pacesetter who demonstrated an outstanding disposition in motherhood and mentorship in your lifetime. A woman of superlative high standards, complete integrity, and boundless enthusiasm for whatever task was entrusted to your charge. No one who was privileged to know you is likely to forget the, candor of your speech, courage of your faith, warm counsel, and the radiance of your friendship. You will forever be remembered until we meet to part no more on the resurrection day. Above all, you were a great woman who had a love for God. A God-fearing mother. She called me Oko Iya, Orimoney, and I am already missing you, mom.
May your soul rest in perfect peace, Adieu.
Iyabo Oriowo
MAAMI, thank you so much for modeling extra ordinary love, patience and kindness. All my life, I
have known you to be a true mother to all. Your love and support to everyone you came across is truly
remarkable. They say at the end of the day, the difference we make in other people’s lives is all that
matters. Thank you for everything our dearly beloved mother. You will forever be missed and never
forgotten.
We take comfort in knowing you are always with us. Thank you for your infinite and all-encompassing
love. May your beautiful soul continue to rest in perfect peace.
Adetutu Jaiyesinmi
Today, I stand before you with a heart full of gratitude as we gather to honor and celebrate the life of my beloved grandmother, Maami. She wasn’t just a grandmother to me; she was a source of comfort,
wisdom, and unending love-a constant presence in my life that I will cherish forever.
Maami was a gentle soul, full of honesty, kindness, and reassurance. She had a way of making you feel
seen, heard, and cared for, no matter what was happening in the world. Her kindness was not just in her words, but in her actions. Every encounter with her left you feeling lighter because that’s the kind of
person she was-a woman who carried light with her wherever she went.
Some of my most cherished memories revolve around the moments I spent with Maami. Whether it was listening to her stories, sharing meals together, or simply sitting in her calming presence, those times were filled with a warmth that only she could provide. There wasn’t a time when she wasn’t ready to offer a reassuring smile or gentle words that would stay with me long after the conversation had ended.
Maami was a woman of deep conviction and faith. She taught us the importance of hospitality, kindness,
and, most importantly, the love of God. These were not just lessons she spoke about but values she lived by every single day. In her life, Maami embodied grace and compassion, extending her hand to those in need, reminding us all of the power of love and selflessness.
She was a beacon of light, especially to those who were privileged enough to know her. Her legacy is not one of grand gestures but of quiet, powerful acts of kindness that left lasting impressions on everyone she met. Maami lived her life with humility and a giving heart, and that is how she would want us to remember her.
As I reflect on her life, I am filled with deep gratitude-gratitude for the love she gave, the lessons she
imparted, and the person she was. Today, we say goodbye, but we also give thanks for having had the
honor of calling her our own. Maami, thank you for everything.
You will be forever missed but never forgotten.
Oluwaseyi Akibo
