Ezechi family honours 98-year-old matriarch in Asaba
The family of Hon. Nnamdi Ezechi, member representing Ndokwa/Ukwuani Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, has celebrated the life of their mother, Mrs Janet James Ezechi, who died at the age of 98.
At a Service of Songs held in her honour in Asaba, Delta State, relatives, friends, political associates and other well-wishers gathered to remember a woman the family described as loving, resilient, generous and deeply devoted to her family.
*Late Mrs Janet Ezechi
Goddy Simon, Asaba
The family of Hon. Nnamdi Ezechi, member representing Ndokwa/Ukwuani Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, has celebrated the life of their mother, Mrs Janet James Ezechi, who died at the age of 98.
At a Service of Songs held in her honour in Asaba, Delta State, relatives, friends, political associates and other well-wishers gathered to remember a woman the family described as loving, resilient, generous and deeply devoted to her family.
Mrs Ezechi, fondly known as “Ileoge-Ekwuofu”, was remembered as a devoted wife and mother who dedicated much of her life to raising her children and supporting her family.
The service also provided an opportunity for those who knew her to reflect on her Christian faith, hospitality and commitment to the welfare of others.
In a sermon titled “Don’t Abuse Privilege,” Apostle Emmanuel Ndugbu of Emmanuel Chapel, Asaba, who led the officiating ministers, urged Christians to regard life as a privilege that should be lived responsibly.
Ndugbu said worldly achievements, wealth and social status should not distract people from preparing for eternity, stressing that death was inevitable and made no distinction between the rich and the poor.
“Death is real and everyone must face it. No matter your status, when death calls, you must obey. The important question is: if you die, where is your destination?” he asked.
Drawing lessons from Hebrews 9 and Ecclesiastes 8, the cleric encouraged the congregation to live purposeful lives and remain prepared for eternity instead of being consumed by the fear of death.
The first Bible reading, taken from Ecclesiastes 3:1-8, was delivered by Emmanuela Ezechi, beginning with the familiar passage, “To everything there is a season.”
Pastor Jonathan Wonder led prayers for the bereaved family.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Nnamdi Ezechi thanked the dignitaries, friends, colleagues and well-wishers who attended the service and supported the family throughout the mourning period.
Born on January 16, 1928, Mrs Ezechi was the daughter of Chief Uzor Iwegbu of the Umugbeleme family and Chief (Mrs) Onyolu Ebinum of the Umuosile family, both of Umu-Ifulu Quarter, Okpai Oluchi, in Ndokwa East Local Government Area of Delta State.
According to the family, she was a hardworking, loving and devoted wife who shouldered the responsibility of raising her children following the death of her husband, Chief James Ezechi.
Beyond her immediate family, she was remembered for her generosity, hospitality and cheerful disposition. Her home, the family said, remained a welcoming place for relatives, neighbours, friends and visitors.
She lived in several parts of Nigeria, including Sapele, Warri, Asaba and Abuja, while remaining a source of encouragement, counsel and prayers to her children and grandchildren.
The family said her influence extended across generations, with her values of hard work, love, faith and generosity remaining part of the legacy she left behind.
Mrs Ezechi is survived by her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, sons-in-law, daughters-in-law, relatives and friends.
Although her death has created a painful void, the family said it remained grateful to God for the 98 years she lived and for the memories, values and lessons she left behind.
The family prayed for the peaceful repose of her soul.
