BY LAW IBITOYE
The ancient town of Ilupeju-Ekiti came alive on Friday as the sons , daughters and families laid their father, Pa Joseph Ojo Adebayo, to rest in a ceremony marked by elegance, colour, and overflowing tributes. Pa Adebayo, who passed on at the age of 87, was celebrated as a devout Christian, community pillar, industrious, and disciplinarian whose life touched many.
The funeral service, held at St. John’s Anglican Church, Ilupeju-Ekiti, drew worshippers from far and near as the church auditorium filled to capacity with family members, friends, associates, and well-wishers. The officiating ministers described the late octogenarian as “a man of deep faith and integrity whose legacy of honesty and hard work will endure for generations.”
Following the solemn service, the atmosphere transformed into one of celebration at the Ibidun Event Hall, also in Ilupeju-Ekiti, where a grand reception was hosted in his honour. The expansive hall was filled to capacity as guests trooped in to honour the memory of the respected elder statesman.
Popular entertainer Fujicologist electrified the event, thrilling guests with energetic performances that set the tone for a lively and joyful celebration of life. Filled with laughter, music, and heartfelt emotions, the reception saw the children, celebrants, and guests dancing away their sorrow in tribute to a life well-lived.
The ceremony attracted notable personalities, including Managing Director of Omiye Microfinance Bank, Mr Gbenga Adegun, Engr. Dare Omodudu, Chairman 101 lounge and resort, Mr Tolulope Ibi- Oluwatoba, among several other dignitaries, community leaders, and friends of the family who came to pay their respects.
For Pastor OLABODE, Rotimi, Niyi, ADEBAYO and their siblings, the turnout and outpouring of love were testament to their father’s impact and the indelible footprints he left behind in Ilupeju-Ekiti and beyond.
Pa Joseph Ojo Adebayo has completed his earthly journey, but his memory continues to shine brightly in the hearts of all who knew him.