BY LAW IBITOYE
It was a day of tributes, songs, celebration of life and reflection as the children of the late Madam Lydia Omobinuola Faparusi, aged 82, gave their mother a befitting burial in Ode-Ekiti, Gbonyin Local Government Area of Ekiti State.
The ceremony drew dignitaries, political leaders, captains of industry, and community members, were led by her children, including former House of Representatives member, Hon. (Engineer) Bamidele Faparusi, former Chairman of Gbonyin Local Government, Hon. Mrs. Folasade Akinrinmola and others.
At the service of songs, the officiating minister, Ven. Superior Evangelist Olaleye Ebenezer Ayodele, Provincial Head of the Celestial Church of Christ (CCC), Gbonyin/Aiyekire, Orisun Itura Parish I, Aisegba, admonished Christians to remain steadfast in their walk with God.
Taking his text from 1 Thessalonians 4:16 and Jeremiah 6:16, the cleric reminded the congregation of the inevitability of death, stressing that “we are born one day, and we shall all return to dust.” He described the deceased as a devout Christian who dedicated her resources to the service of God, impacted lives positively, and left behind a legacy of faith and charity.
“There is hope for those who die in Christ, for resurrection awaits them,” he declared, urging the congregation to “fear God, walk the narrow path that leads to eternal life, and live uprightly so people can speak well of you after your departure.”
In a brief interview , Hon. Bamidele Faparusi paid glowing tribute to his late mother, describing her as the backbone of the family who made immense sacrifices to ensure her children’s education and wellbeing were prioritised.
“She was my strength and comforter. She instilled in us honesty, hard work, integrity, humility, and fairness. Those were the priceless gifts she gave us, and they remain the guiding principles of our lives,” Faparusi said.
Similarly, Hon. Mrs. Folasade Akinrinmola recalled her mother as a loving, caring, and selfless woman who often put the needs of others before her own. She described her as not only a parent but also her business partner, confidant, and prayer warrior.
“My mother was a cheerful giver who could sacrifice for others to live. She was my pillar and source of encouragement. I pray God grants her eternal rest,” she stated.
Femi solar, a seasoned musician played at the reception held in Ode-Ekiti, where friends, political associates, and community leaders converged to honour the life and legacy of Madam Faparusi.
She is survived by husband, children, grandchildren, and great-grand children.