MRS PERPETUA AGYEMFRA BROCHURE

IN LOVING MEMORY OF PERPMRESTUA AGYEMFRATHEODORA AFUA AYEBEA (nee Awuah-Lartey)



Order Of Service OFFICIATING CLERGY: 12. Rev’d Fr. Robert Atope 5. Hymns: A & M 517 PART TWO 1. Most Rev’d Hon. Dr. Justice 13. Rev’d Fr. Flt. Lt. EA Tackie- 6. Scripture Reading: Rev. 14:6-13 1. Hymn: A & M 436 9. File Past Hymns: A & M 669, 2. Prayer of Thanksgiving Yaw Offei Akrofi Yarboi 3. Hymn A & M 228 223,373, Supp. 57 4. Absolution 2. Right Rev’d Col. John AT THE ORGAN: 10. Tributes: 5. Dead March in Saul Kwamena Otoo 1. Mr. Dennis Opoku Adjei 11. File Past Hymn: A & M 240, 236, 6. Announcement 2. Mad. Victoria Bentoom 7. Recessional Hymn: A & M 499 3. Rev’d Fr. Christian Kalitsi: 3. Mr. Emmanuel Yaw 623 Parish Priest, St. Stephen 12. Tributes: PART THREE: Anglican Church, Tema. Amaniampong 13. File Past Hymns: A & M SUPP. 40 AT THE GRAVE SIDE 13. Closing of Coffin - Supp. 51 1. Processional Hymn A & M 240 4. Rev’d Fr. Justice Apo: Priest IN ATTENDANCE: 2. Prayers Assisting, St Stephen 1. St. Stephen Anglican Church BURIAL SERVICE: 3. Hymn: A & M 401 Anglican Church, Tema. PART ONE 4. Committal Prayers Choir 1. Hymn: A & M 290 5. Laying of Wreath OTHER CLERGY 2. St. George’s Garrison Anglican 2. Intention and Opening Prayer 6. Vote of Thanks 5. Most Rev’d Professor Daniel 3. Psalm: 121 7. Hymn: A & M 477 Church Choir 4. Scripture Reading 1Thess. 4:13-18 8. Benediction Yinka Sarfo 3. St. Stephen Anglican Servants 5. Hymn: A & M 24 6. Biography and Tributes 6. Rt. Rev’d Felix Odei Annancy of the Sanctuary 7. Anthem by Choir 8. Sermon 7. Rev’d Father Charles K PRE-BURIAL SERVICE 9. Offertory Affainie (Dean) 1. Reception of the Body 10. Blessing of offertory 2. Processional Hymn: A & M 437 8. Ven. Major (rtd.) ENA Laryea 3. Sentences: 4. Prayers: 9. Very Rev’d Helena Opoku- Sarkodie 10. Rev’d Canon Lt. Col Ian Adjetey Adjei 11. Rev’d Fr. Dr. Francis Lokko 3

Bio MRS. PERPETUA THEODORA AFUA AYEBEA AGYEMFRA (NEE AWUAH-LARTEY) graphy The late Mrs. Perpetua Theodora Agyemfra was mother, Auntie Caroline, insisted she goes into born on Friday 16th October, 1942. Her parents teaching so she enrolled in St. Monica’s Training were Col. Samuel Ayeh Lartey of the Ahyiankode College at Mampong in the Ashanti Region clan of Larteh, Kubease and Madam Caroline and completed in 1962. She came out with an Opokua Awuah of the Akantsane clan also of excellent academic performance. Larteh Kubease. They are both deceased. And in the Perpetua was baptized into the Anglican Faith In 1963, she got married to her sweetheart, Brigadier General Francis Asiedu Agyemfra of end, it’s not in 1944 and was confirmed into the same faith Blessed Memory. She taught briefly at L/A Middle the years in in 1956 at Larteh. She attended St. Augustine School in Winneba but then decided to further her Anglican Primary School, Larteh from 1948-1953 education. She therefore entered the Winneba your life that and went on to Anglican Middle Girls’ school Specialist Training now University of Education, counts. It is in 1954. However, from late 1954-1955, she Winneba In September 1964. She studied Art joined Mr. Seth Odei-Tettey who was married to Education and emerged top of her class with first the life in your her Aunty, Love Odei-Tettey in Koforidua and was class results in 1967 (She was in a male dominated years… enrolled in the Anglican Girls’ School there. In class with 31 males and 2 females!!). She was December 1957 she came back to Larteh where posted that year to the Armed Forces Education Abraham Lincoln. she completed her middle school and then to Unit as organizer with attachment to Armed Forces Larteh Secondary School in 1958. In 1959 her Experimental school, now Garrison Primary School. 4

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When her husband was posted to Kumasi, she a member of the PCC for St. George’s Garrison Francis. They were also blessed with 12 lovely was transferred to Asem L/A Middle Boys’ School Anglican Church at Burma Camp for several years. grandchildren. Art and Craft Centre in 1970. From Kumasi, She was a Synod Representative for four years her husband was posted to the Ghana High and was also a Lay Reader. She also served as The following script is her own words: Commission in the United Kingdom, where she the Master Shepherd of the Guild of the Good joined him in 1971. Shepherd at the St. George’s Garrison Anglican “My education was made possible by the help of Church for over 5 years. my maternal aunties and uncles. In Middle school Upon their return from the United Kingdom, she form 2, I gained admission to Wesley Girls High resumed work in the Armed Forces Education unit She continued to worship at St. Stephen Anglican school with half scholarship but due to financial and was attached to Garrison Education Centre church till she passed on. Perpetua loved music, constraints I had to forgo that admission. In 1959, in Burma Camp as organizer in 1978. She was dancing, reading and cooking. thank God my mother was able to send me to St. appointed as the Headteacher of Field Engineers Monica Training College. Unfortunately in that Primary School from 1980-1983. She was then Her union with the late Brigadier General Francis same year my mother died suddenly and this transferred to Garrison Primary School, Burma Agyemfra Rtd. was blessed with 5 wonderful was a big blow to me. At first I did not understand Camp as Headteacher in September 1983. She children: David, Michael, Edna, Charles and why my mother insisted I curtail my Secondary rose through the ranks to become Assistant Education at Larteh to enter a Training college. Director of Education in 1990. She was appointed Later I came to realize it was the best decision Officer in Charge (OIC) of 5 Garrison Schools in because I grew to love teaching. 1992 and retired from there in October 2002. I am grateful to God for including me in the family During her career as a teacher, she attended a of Rev Fr. Asiedukofiawua; this great family of number of Orientation Courses in Management ladies and gentlemen (Nwurabafo and Akrakyefo). and office Practices. She also held positions in A family that showed me love and discipline the Zonal Ghana National Association of Teachers under the directorship of Madam Emma Darkoa (GNAT) including serving as Treasurer and as Vice Asiedukofiawuah.” Chairperson of GNATLAS i.e. the Lady Association of Zonal GNAT. Most of us here have related to this beautiful lady, Sister Perp in one way or the other in our lives. Perpetua also served as a Board Member for Bishop John Daly School at Dansoman for several We thank our Good Lord for bringing Sister years, becoming the Board chairman in 2004. Perpetua into our lives. He gifted her to us and has taken her away to be with him forever. Perpetua believed strongly in God and was involved in a lot of church activities. She was IN ALL OF THIS, WE SAY THANK YOU LORD. Amen. 6 Sisi Perpe, De olooo

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At age 5 At Winneba Specialist Training With Teacher Love & Ewurafua 8

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Tribute to our late Mother, MRS. PERPETUA THEODORA AGYEMFRA BY DAVID, MICHAEL, EDNA, CHARLES AND FRANCIS AGYEMFRA Today we pay tribute to our outcome, but God knows best. We have accepted Mummy, it is hard to accept that you are no longer beautiful mum who was that God has spoken and therefore we say Amen! with us and that we will not see you anymore. everyone’s mummy! A selfless However, we believe that you are watching over mum who had everyone’s You sacrificed a lot for us and many others that us and are rejoicing with the heavenly hosts. Rest interest at heart. She was you took under your wings and raised as your well our dear mum. May the Good Lord keep you mother to the motherless and fatherless and own. You took us to church and instilled in us the and guide you, till we meet again in heaven. always looked out for others. She was beautiful Christian values that we live by today. Growing inside out. up, most of us either served in church as mass By your children, Kudjo, Michael, Edna, Charles servers or choristers and at a point in time many and Kwaku Asare We miss you mum but we believe that you were members of the St. George’s Garrison church choir ready to meet your maker and to join dad in were family members. And in the end, it’s not heaven. We buried our dad 8 months ago and the years in your life thought that you were going to be around for a We remember the early morning and evening that counts. It is the bit longer. Your grandchildren miss you too and tea, a tradition we believed was passed down life in your years… we were all hoping to celebrate you after dad’s by your grandmother and aunties, and those anniversary because we couldn’t do so last conversations which looking back was our Abraham Lincoln. year. If only we had listened carefully to some bonding time, where we will discuss all manner of of our conversations with you, we would have topics and laugh. We know how proud you were known that you were preparing us for this time. of us and will call others and announce our arrival Although we are all distraught, we are consoled every time we came to visit, and would often by your peaceful transition. We prayed fervently remind us to call other family relatives and friends. for your recovery and hoped for a different 10

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Tribute to SISTER PERPETUA BY SIBLINGS Of a truth, a saint has been called to glory to begin She would proudly introduce us to all her ready to share whatever she had. She was able to a life of immortality. friends and acquaintances whenever we were assist her nieces and nephews to get the best of at a social event together. “Do you know my kid education in one or the other of the basic schools Sister Perpe (or Perplish to some of us) was sister or brother?” she would ask throughout in Burma Camp because of her wide network of the first born and took her duties as the eldest the event. Through those interactions, we friends and colleagues. She also acted as a mentor seriously. She would check in with you and ask got to be known to a lot of people in our own to those who entered the field of education. if you had heard from any of the other siblings spheres of life as “Perpe nua”. even though she had just finished speaking to It will be difficult to replace a compassionate big them. She did this in order to encourage us to Sisi Perpe, had a quiet and calm demeanour and sister like her but we have the belief that she is in communicate with each other more frequently. always had a cheerful smile. She was always a better place, away from the pain she endured in the last days. 12 Her memory will remain fresh in our minds. We miss her daily. She has ran a good race and fought a good fight. May her soul rest in peace. Diili, Sister Perpe. Diili!. Amen From her siblings: Nancy Offei, Selina Willis, Kingsley Adjei, Seth Lartey, Samuel Nyampong Lartey, Yaw Asare Attrams, Sylvia Krishnan, Steve Lartey, Alberta Nyampong and Samuel Aye Lartey Jnr

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Tribute By Tribute By MRS. JOANA AGYEMFRA MRS. MAAME ACHIAA AGYEMFRA MY MOTHER-IN-LAW DAUGHTER-IN-LAW Silently the shades of evening gather round my lonely door, Silently they bring before me faces I shall see no more. Mom, it is with great sadness Oh, not lost, but gone before us! Let them never be forgotten; and difficulty that l pen Sweet is their memory to the lonely; in our hearts they this message. I have been perish not. blessed to be part of your family, how you received me into your D. E. Jones home and supported Michael and l in our choices and decisions. Icame to know Mrs. Perpetua Agyemfra as my presence and we could discuss freely on any subject classmate, Michael’s mum, long before I got matter at all, be it social issues, politics, church married into the Agyemfra family. She had issues, and name it. I will bring her up to speed on always been known to me as mummy and our every little gossip in town and if she had not heard relationship had been very cordial, as that between from me in a while, she would call and I will gist her. a mother and daughter is expected to be. Mummy Oh my God! I have once again lost a dear mother and was kind and very accommodating. I remember a good friend. in the 80s, on occasions when David was sent on errands, I went with him and he would use that time Mummy was neither domineering nor intrusive. I tell to teach me how to drive, using mummy’s famous you, for the 30 years or so I have been married to her orange Golf. When we got back to the entrance of son, mummy visited us not more than thrice. This No.1 Glover Road, we would switch off the ignition is because she would not want to be said to have and David would push me to park the car quietly. barged into his son’s marriage. In fact, I personally On one such occasion, who did we find in the door requested her on a few times to help settle an issue way waiting for us? Mummy! I thought she was or two for us, but mummy would not interfere. She going to flare up and call me names but no, she just hated confrontations and she rather would stay far said in a soft voice “eh! 3ya mon kyere Edna bi mma from that. me wae”, meaning “eh! You people should consider teaching Edna too”. That was when I realized she had Mummy, you have been a very good example to accepted me into her family. I must confess, mummy me and I have learnt a lot from you. I will endeavor was partly the reason I accepted David’s proposal to to apply the same when I also become a mother-in- marry him. law. Now that you have gone to be with the Lord, I bid you farewell and I am going to miss you dearly. May Auntie Perpe was an exceptional mother-in-law. She the Good Lord accept your kind soul to rest in perfect called me Nana Ama and I called her Auntie Perpe peace. Amen. when I was teasing her. I was very comfortable in her 14

We had the pleasure and blessing of Tribute By vehemently oppose, and counter, calling you the spending time with you when Jeffrey MR. RICHARD greatest mother in law that ever lived - it was not and Michelle were born, particularly APEAKORANG just an accolade but a true reflection of what you with Jeffrey whereby l was having such meant to me. Now that gentle voice has gone a difficult time with pain management SON-IN-LAW silent. Silent here on this plane but singing with after the delivery and you found me in the angels in heaven with your dear husband tears trying to get on the bed to lie Idid not know I will be writing a tribute to you although I cannot imagine the General bawling at down but l was unable to do so until Aunty Perpe so soon after your dear husband the top of his voice in heaven. He is more likely to you calmly comforted me saying it will passed on to eternity. Perhaps he convinced throw a salute to the heavenly hosts. settle as soon as l get some good rest you of how great heaven was whilst you and proceeded to help me get on the lay on your sick bed. You pulled a fast one on us You were always so gentle and kind, your bed and covered me up. and exited, albeit in style, peacefully and literally demeanor quietly reassuring. You will always invite surrounded by your children. me to have a meal with you when we met but I Your comfort and warmth will be Well, who can fault you! You lived a full life, a will always diplomatically decline, whiles quietly cherished memories, l also remember matriarch in your family, well loved by your salivating as the aroma of delights untold wafted another moment when you first met children, respected in your community and beyond from your kitchen. How I wish I had accepted Michelle at just over 3 months old, oh it including your “children” from Garrison Primary - those offers now. Your voice was always ringing in was just pure joy to see your beaming where I also attended. By the way, I also pulled a my house, in the background, with that language face when you hugged us and took fast one on you because I had already “spotted” that I never understood, chatting with your only her into your arms. Thank you, Mom, your daughter before you became headmistress. daughter, in the kitchen, car, everywhere, it was for sharing your family with me, God You insisted on calling me using my titles gentle, melodious, calming although I did not be with you, and Farewell until we “Architect, Reverend, when we talked, and I will understand it, I guess that is gone also. How I will meet at the coming of Christ. miss you “The greatest mother in law in the whole wide world” I am encouraged by the verse below from the book of John 14 1-3. The Lord was ready, so He came for you. “Don’t let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me. There is more than enough room in my father’s home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am.” Rest on Aunty Perpe 15

TRIBUTE TO mother Auntie Esther as she called her had a special relationship. Mummy was an in-law, a mother, a big MY AMAZING BEAUTIFUL sister and a friend all put together to her. Thank you MOTHER IN-LAW BY Mummy got me my first house help. She assessed DR(MRS) NAA and negotiated everything and it was a very good KOWAH A. deal. Mummy just called and asked Charles and I AGYEMFRA to come home. When we got there, Mummy said, “Auntie Esther needs help and so do you, see if you Peace I leave with you; my peace I give family was evident in everything she did. She was like the lady over there, if you do take her to your you. I do not give to you as the world a devoted mother to everyone and always put the house and pay her this amount.” Mummy thank you. gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled needs of others before her own. and do not be afraid. John 14:27 Who will call me Maame Naa? Who will we spend Mummy had a way of making even the darkest our Sunday afternoons with? Who will wait till after God blessed me with the best mother in-law ever. days seem brighter, she lovingly called,” Maame midnight to listen to the full gist about my birthday Mrs Perpetua Agyemfra, whom I lovingly called Naa come home, I will take care of Maame celebrations? On whose bed will we relax and chat? Mummy approved and accepted me as soon Adwoa” That phone call solved my biggest Who will smile and tease me about my strength when as I was introduced to her. She started calling to challenge in 2017 when my Mum fell seriously I want to assist? Who will bring up a new conversation check on me regularly. She gave me the softest sick and was hospitalized, who would take care when you ask to leave? Who will ask, Maame Naa, and easiest landing. She affectionately called me of Maame Adwoa? How was I going to combine when is your husband coming? Mummy, thank you Maame Naa even before I got married. Mummy work, and hospital visits? Mummy turned the for being my dependable support system. Indeed, loved, pampered and made sure I was okay difficult situation into a loving and memorable heaven has gained a gem. especially because Charles didn’t reside in Ghana. one. Our stay in Tema was enriched with priceless pieces of advice, healthy conversations and pure Her kindness and compassion knew no bounds, and Her , generosity, and compassion touched the pampering. Mummy cared about my entire family, she had a heart that was as big as the sky. lives of everyone she met. She was always there Thank you Mummy. to lend a listening ear, offer a helping hand, and Her legacy will live on through the countless lives she provide words of comfort and encouragement. She was a woman of great strength and courage, touched during her time here on earth. Her memory Her selflessness and devotion to others were who faced life's challenges with grace and will be cherished by all who knew her, and her spirit truly remarkable. dignity. Her unwavering faith in God was evident will continue to inspire us all to live our lives with the in everything she did, and her love for her family same love, grace, and kindness that she embodied. As we reflect on her life, I am reminded of the was boundless. She was a great pillar of support many ways she touched our lives. Her love for her when my Dad passed away. Mummy and my Thank you Mummy Sleep well Mummy dearest, 16

Tribute to MUMMY FROM MRS. MAWUSE AGYEMFRA DAUGHTER-IN-LAW Thank you Mummy was the kind woman point. Thank you for hosting the naming for hosting next door in Number 1 Glover ceremony of my 3 children, thank you for the naming Road, Burma Camp who sharing your market ideas with me, thank ceremony of my cooked for my brothers and I you for introducing me to your caterer 3 children, thank for months after the death of my mum in both (local and continental), hairdresser, you for sharing 1993. Thank you Mummy for being so kind dressmaker just to mention a few. your market to the motherless children next door. ideas with me Mummy when I saw you in bed in your Fast forward I became your daughter-in- room instead of your favorite chair that law when Kwaku Asare married me and Friday afternoon before your final stay in the relationship got better. I could count on hospital, I immediately knew you were in you to always help with the children when a lot of pain, but little did I know that, that I travelled from Tema to Accra on Monday hospital trip was the beginning of the end. to Friday to work. It was such a relief to pick up children who had bathed, eaten Mummy, I miss the conversations, your and done their homework, thank you concern about my work and your phone Mummy. Yaw and his twin sisters were not calls when you were looking for Kwaku easy to handle and you were getting old, Asare. Mummy I miss sending the fantastic but you still wanted them around you. You 3 to Tema to spend time with you. certainly made my life easy as a mother with 3 children under the age of 3 at a Rest in peace mummy till we meet again 17

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Tribute To Tribute from Tribute by Grandma MICHELLE JASON AND AND FROM JEFFREY JEREMY STEPHANIE Grandma! We will miss our Mrs. Perpetua Agyemfra, also & LESLIE many phone calls when known as Grandma. She has you would ask when we are been a pillar in our lives as long Grandma Perpe was a beacon of light coming to visit you next. You as we have been alive. She has in our lives, her presence radiating were a very kind person and when ever always been kind, respectful, and caring to warmth and comfort. Her unwavering we talked on the phone you would make all her kin. It's been an Honour to know her. love and unwavering support were sure to check on how we were doing and We can confidently say that every moment a constant source of inspiration, guiding us would always tell us to keep studying hard spent with her brought happiness into our through life's challenges. She showered us with in school. lives, and we are forever thankful. Rest In unconditional love. love, Grandma. We will miss our conversations about This love she poured into every family gathering, other personal things in our lives. Tribute by every holiday celebration, and birthdays which SIENNA created cherished memories that we will forever Whenever we visited Ghana you would hold dear. She encouraged us to pursue our always welcome us with open arms, They say grand parents are the dreams, reminding us that with dedication and making sure we ate well, and always loved voices of the past but the doors perseverance, anything is possible and achievable. having us around. We are forever grateful to the future and grandma Though you may no longer be physically present, for you and will miss you dearly!!!! Love you are truly that, although your spirit lives on within us. you always. Rest well Grandma the words you spoke were few you always carried yourself with pride and intergrity Grandma, thank you for the immeasurable - Michelle and Jeffrey sharing your wisdom and knowledge and influence you had on our lives. The teachings more importantly, showed an abundance you gave us will continue to mould us, and we of love. Until me meet again rest in perfect will always appreciate your memories. Rest in peace, I love you eternal peace. We will forever love and miss you, Auntie Perpe. With love and heartfelt gratitude, Sienna. Stephanie & Leslie 20

Tribute from Tribute by CHARLENE FRANCIS, AMANDA AND AND ETHAN AUDREY TO GRANDMA Our Grandma Perpetua was the best. Grandma, we do not know where to start this tribute, we miss She always gave us a beautiful you so much. When we saw you on the hospital bed and you smile and a big hug. Grandma could not speak, we prayed to God to heal you, but He had other Perpetua has everything we need in plans for you, in all things we give thanks to God. her room. She always has a bag full of sweets, chocolate, biscuits and drinks. All you need is Grandma thank you for driving us Grandma you listened patiently to to bring her bag then she’ll give you whatever to nursery school in your green our Manchester City and Manchester you want. Grandma Perpetua will give you Toyota, thank you for making United rivalry stories and when something else when you bring the bag again your home our second home six Daddy and Uncle Kojo tried to add and again. She didn’t scold us. Grandma has days a week, Grandma thank Arsenal to the debate you found the biggest bed. We can all sleep together you for always having sweets it all funny. Grandma, you always with her. That’s our best time. Grandma will let in your room for us. When we remembered our birthdays and gave each of us say a prayer starting from Yaw, then spent the night in your home, you us presents, thank you. Grandma, Panyin, then Kakra, then Maame Adwoa, then insisted that all three of us sleep the Community 11 house is not Kobby before Grandma herself. She would ask on your bed with you, we miss the same without you, we climb up us what we want to eat before it’s prepared. those late-night conversations. the stairs hoping to find you sitting We always eat all our food. Grandma always Grandma you introduced us to in your favourite chair listening to smiles and makes us happy. Grandma we some interesting Telenovelas and your loud radio and surrounded by miss you but we know you are in heaven with you updated us when we missed newspapers. Grandpa. Keep smiling at us. some of the shows. We enjoyed watching the YOLO series with May God give you eternal rest from Keep watching us you, you were never bored with all your pain here of earth. Rest in our choice of TV programs. perfect peace Grandma. We love you Charlene and Ethan 21

Tribute from Tribute From NEPHEWS ASIEDUKOFIAWUAH FAMILY OF LARTEH AND NIECES Mrs. Perpetua Agyemfra was born on Friday, 16th October TO MRS PERPETUA 1942. She loved being an AFUA so much, because she THEODORA AGYEMFRA. was born on a Friday. Her father was Col. Samuel Ayeh Lartey and her mother Auntie Perpetua, it is still hard for us to accept was Madam Caroline Opokua Awuah, both of Larteh, Kubease. They that you are no longer with us. However, the are both deceased. Bible says we should give thanks and so we She was born into the Great AsieduKofiAwuah family. Her maternal will just do that for creator knows best. grandfather was the late Rev. Fr. AsieduKofiAwuah who was one of the Auntie Perpetua as we affectionately called her, was an example of a perfect Mother, beautiful person inside and out, loving, strong, genuine, disciplined, honest, and very caring. You were amazing at all you did. You invested in the lives of everyone around you, just to make sure they live a better life. Your home was always welcome to us all. You have supported us in various ways, education, Christianity, morals, discipline and the list goes on! You have truly been a blessing to us and calling you Mummy just came naturally to us because you were our mum in every sense of the word. Even in our adult lives you were still influential and treated us all the same with love. We are very grateful to God for giving us so many years with you. We will really miss you. Rest peacefully our mummy, Rest in God’s gentle arms Aunty Perpe. 22

first Anglican missionaries of Larteh. When her So…………. Sisi Perpe took over that mantle of would not call any of us. She gave us daily news grandfather, the late Father AsieduKofiAwuah leadership and brought us all under her wings. of happenings or events that were to occur in the converted to become a Christian, He and several When she and her husband built their own house family. She glued us all together. Now, we miss all relations from Akantsane Clan of Larteh, moved at Ayaase in Larteh, we all gravitated toward that the guidance and help she gave us. and settled at SCHOOL ‘’TE’’ area, where most house anytime we visited Larteh from our various of the Churches and prestigious schools were stations. Sis Perpe, we saw you going down health wise located. when you were hospitalised recently. We never Yes, Sis Perp shared. One never left her house envisaged that this was going to be your last SCHOOL ‘’TE’ or SCHOOL ‘’mu’’ was a very without eating. Sometimes on our way to Larteh, admission to hospital. Probably we saw it coming prestigious area. Those days, we even had a we would call her to enquire what food was but did not believe it was going to happen so soon. lawn tennis court close by and a Cinema plaza available. She would say ‘’Just come, there is called Obiri’s House. We had an area called the enough food for everyone. The only condition is, Our Good Lord has called you to take better care ‘’18’’ where there were lots of children from all come with an empty stomach.’’ of you. ages and no child living in that area dared not go to School. Every adult then, had the right to We loved each others’ company so much that We do say Goodbye, Loving Sister. discipline any child who was found going astray. sometimes our Big Brother Kojo Asamoah would All homes in the Larteh ‘’18’’ were our homes scold us for keeping to ourselves in the house. He DE Oloo and Sis Perp loved talking about the good times would shout at us ‘’you guys hurry up and get out she had with her age mates. They moved and of the house. Did you come to Larteh for a function grew together in the ‘’18’’ like siblings and kept in or you just came here to converse?’’ These shouts touch with each other even in their old age. would ginger us to dress up quickly and follow him. Oh yes, we lived as a team. Oh boy, Sis Perpe In the AsieduKofiAwuah house even children knew so many Lartehrians because she grew up believed in hierarchy so even when someone there. Anytime we followed her on a walk through was older than another by just one day, that the town of Larteh, she would stop after every 10 person had to be given due respect. or 20 steps to greet or talk to someone she knew. The children of all our Aunties and Uncles moved When our mothers died, she became our mother under the strict directorship of our through and through. She organised our weddings and naming ceremonies for us. She made sure Grandmother, Madam Emma Darkoa or Awura our children got good schools to attend because Emma. She was the Matriarch of the house. The she loved Education. There was never a day she mantle of leadership moved from one Auntie to the other till all of them passed on. 23

Tribute From MRS. GERTRUDE AYETE-LABI AND HER FAMILY TO OUR DEAR AND SPECIAL AUNTY MRS PERPETUA THEODORA AGYEMFRA. “With the Saints give rest, O Christ, to the souls of to when we needed help. How can we forget to of my going up and down, you took good care of Thy servants where there is no pain, no sorrow, no thank you, those of us whose children attended my Kwame, making sure he lacked nothing. You sighing, but life everlasting”. the Garrison Schools? Our children were Madam's were a good 'sister' and 'mother-in-law' to him. I (An Orthodox Hymn for the Departed) children. Thank you for never giving up on us when know he preferred the former and you the latter. we ‘forgot’ to pay the school fees on time. Kudjo and Michael will surely keep that debate Mummy, Auntie Perpe, Sis Perpe alive till kingdom come. We could go on and on, It's still hard for me to accept that Our children say thank you for showing them how but this is simply to say: THANK YOU. you are no longer with us. My entire to live and serve; for teaching them to be patient, family is devastated. It is going to be forgiving and respectful; for showing them how to I miss your phone calls, my 'serial caller'; we miss a while before we will be able to come to terms be resourceful and resilient in the face of hardship; you telling us you are ok; we miss the sound with our world without Mummy. However, we for being their best teacher by just being yourself. of your TV and radio playing together in the know we will be comforted (Blessed are those They say in you they were blessed with a second background. We will miss our Sunday afternoon who mourn, for they shall be comforted. Mathew mother who exhibited all the qualities of a perfect brunches on our stopover from Church. We miss 5:4). Also, we give thanks, for the Lord’s word tells mother. Thank you for sharing your experience in and will miss you terribly. us to give thanks in all things. life with us and accompanying us on our own life’s journey. We cherish the sweet memories of your We are however consoled by the assurance that My mornings have not been the same since your visit with us in Geneva. Thank you for supporting you are with our God, and at peace. Continue to passing. Thank you for being the first to call and Asieduwa and I when our mother passed away. watch over us. You will forever be in our hearts. check on us, giving us all the news (the deaths, Thank you for accompanying my dear husband weddings, engagement, jokes, family gossip, and I when our daughter Natasha was taken ill May your soul abide with the blessed. May your complaints, etc). Thank you for caring for all of and eventually passed away. In all the three years memory be eternal. AMEN. us. Thank you for being our mother, our sister, our aunt, our confidante and, above all, our friend. Thank you for being the glue that held the family together. Thank you for being the home we ran 24

Tribute from DELA, DANIEL AND CHILDREN “Aunty Nnela” …. Yes Maa” You traveled all the way to South Africa in winter “Abena Dela …. Yes Maa” to take me through my first experience of “Otubea! …. Yes Maa” motherhood. Loving me, spoiling me and teaching Ntikete? …… me several meal tricks that have helped me in my marriage. We laughed a lot and have shared many Ishudder anytime the thought comes to my memories from that trip. Your love for Daniel and mind ever so often in these past weeks that subsequently your grandchildren Kobby and Kafui I will never hear that voice again!!! I scroll have been exceptional. I could go on and on. There desperately through my phone chats to see is no way I can say thank you enough for what you if I had any voice messages from you that I can mean to me, I will need another lifetime to do that. listen to just to comfort me but none! Why didn’t I ask for one? Why didn’t I demand for just one I am so glad I got many chances to tell you how voice note in this day of technology. I guess I didn’t much I love you and how much I appreciate you. think I would loose you anytime soon! You will always hold a very special place in my heart. I will miss your smile, your voice, our chats. Aunty Perpe, my Maa, my disciplinarian, my teacher, my counselor! My time, Your time, God’s time I thank you for the love and care you showed me My heart is truly broken Maa but I know you are all my life. You have been a pillar for me. Oh how with daddy safe in the arms of Jesus. I have enjoyed being your last baby, the head teacher’s daughter in Garrison Primary! Your “Then, when our dying bodies have been insistence of excellence in my education brought transformed into bodies that will never die, this out the best in me. When it came to the things of Scripture will be fulfilled: “Death is swallowed up God, your diligence and insistence in my Christian in victory. O death, where is your victory? O death, life shaped my future and my love for the things where is your sting?”” 1 Corinthians 15:54-55 of God. NLT May God keep you until we meet again. Sleep well Maa, sleep well. 25

Tribute by Tribute from ELEANOR NADIA DETIEN AKROFI Since the day I heard the news, I was not able to utter My dearest aunty Pep, it’s with a a word, because I am in shock. I was not able to put a heavy heart that I pen down my word on what I was feeling because I was in pain. But I farewell. I was and still am in shock Just want to say one thing. at your demise. It’s like a bad dream Thank you mummy for all the good you did. but I take solace in the fact that you are resting in We thank God the Almighty for all we got from your hand. the arms of the good Lord. You decided to go and join your beloved one on the day of his birthday. Your “Kumasi “ family miss you dearly. But the We just have to let you go words of JOB remind us that it is the Lord who May God the heavenly Father receive your soul. gave you to us for a time and I personally really Rest in perfect peace, mummy. Da yiye. enjoyed you my Favorite aunty as I tell everybody. You were the one who taught me how to tie my laces, you were the aunt who took me to Larteh for the first time. You were the aunt I could share my inner moments with, but continuing with what Job said, the Lord has called you to a better place. Blessed be His name. I pray that He will console all of us and that someday we shall meet again. Sleep well aunty. I love you and your memories live on. Enor. 26

In Memory Of Mrs. Perpetua Agyemfra (Afua Ayebea) BY WINFRED OWIREDU GYAMPOH, ESQ. We are reminded in II Corinthians I would also often visit Mrs. Agyemfra and her embrace and her gentle touch on their cheeks. 5:8 that ‘to be absent from the family, then headmistress at one of the schools They were also very fond of her and never missed body is to be present with the at Burma Camp. In her official duty, she was a an opportunity to tout how motherly, gentle, and Lord’, so I am consoled by our very disciplined officer, and commanded a lot of kind-hearted she was. She was so pleasant that creator’s words that my dear sister, Mrs Perpertua respect not just by virtue of her position as head no visit from us was enough for her unless she Agyemfra (Afua Ayebea), is with the Lord. mistress, but by being a living example of what had our full and undivided attention. Her God given that authority meant. Two of my children had the beauty did not only radiate on the outside, but in For over 60 years I have known and affectionately privilege of briefly attending her school in their her kind, gentle, affable, buoyant and generous called her Sisi Perpe, who was the wife of the early years under her tutelage, and like the very nature which all stood to benefit from. illustrious Brigadier-General Francis Agyemfra of fine person she was, she cared for them dearly blessed memory. Our relationship started from like her own. Sisi Perpe also enjoyed dancing and never missed Larteh as teenagers, and we reconnected later as an opportunity to showcase her dance moves. We young adults when she and her husband, then a Sisi Perpe along with her husband Brigadier- would quite often laugh at how fast she moved to young handsome military officer were stationed General Agyemfra were later transferred to the dance floor to dance to every tune that would in the military facility at Burma camp. Kumasi where they lived in another military play. Those precious moments will forever be establishment. Coincidentally, as a State Attorney remembered and cherished. I would visit them often when they moved to at the time, I was stationed in Kumasi where we Burma Camp. I recollect that during one of my lived not too far apart from each other and again Sissii Peeerpeeee, my children and I miss you first visits to their house at Burma Camp, as related closely as brothers and a sister. dearly. While we mourn your physical absence, we part of their routine checks, I was asked at the are further reminded in 1 Thessalonians 4: 13-14 checkpoint by the military officer on duty to Our close-knit relationship remained steadfast that this is not the end; as it reads: ‘13 ……..., we disclose my identity before being allowed entry throughout the years as they were transferred do not want you to be uninformed about those onto the military grounds. I obliged by stating that back to Burma Camp and I also to Accra after my who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like I am ‘W.O Gyampoh’ (the W. O being my initials) sojourn outside the country. They later moved to the rest of mankind, who have no hope. 14 For we but the military officer perhaps assumed the Teshie Military Academy, and finally after their believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we W.O was the abbreviation for ‘Warrant Officer’, so retirement, to their home in Tema where my believe that God will bring with Jesus those who without further interrogation, he saluted me and family and I were always welcome. Our family have fallen asleep in him’. immediately gave me access to their home. Sisi bond remained intact. Perpe did not let me hear the end of this. Like the So Sisi Perpe, until we meet again, rest well. true Brigadier-General’s wife that she was, she Sisi Perpe was very dear to me and my family, would jokingly salute me whenever we met. and I was undoubtedly very fond of her and her Your brother, the Warrant Officer salutes you, my family as well. My children remember her warm children salute you; rest, rest well my sister. 27

Tribute by MR. & MRS NAT BINEY JP. (BROTHER & ADONKWANTA OHEMEA) It was with great sadness when we heard of the sudden passing of our dear sister and Auntie Perpetua. While we are deeply mournful and sorrowful, we believe that you are at peace and resting in a much better place with your Creator. We had the privilege and fortune to enjoy all the kindness and generosity whenever we go on holidays in Ghana and stayed with you at both Burma Camp and your residence at Tema. We will never forget your usual giggling and smiles when you do also pay us a visit in Bolton, Greater Manchester- UK. We sincerely thank you and cherish your loving care for introducing us into your church- St. Stephen's Anglican Church in Tema, where we have been worshipping since we returned from UK. You have left a great vacuum in the family. Your absence will be highly felt by all who are closer to you. Where shall we go for lunch and drinks after church on Sundays at Tema? Once again, we thank God for your exuberant life, your loving care, generosity and kindness to all which will never be forgotten. Sisi Perpetua, Fare Thee Well and a peaceful journey to your maker. Da yie! Di okose! Rest in Perfect Peace in the Bosom of the Lord till we meet again. Amen 28

Tribute to for their dedication to duty in caring for Auntie MRS. PERPETUA THEODORA Perpe. AGYEMFRA BY GEORGE ARCHER. I remember when my late mom was also This is certainly one of the most painful When I was elected to be the Church Secretary hospitalised at 37 military hospital in the same and extremely difficult tasks that I on the Council of St. Georges Garrison Anglican ward shared with Auntie Perpe. I used to go to sit have to do, but it is necessary and Church, Burma camp in the early 90’s, Auntie by Auntie Perpe’s bedside when I felt low in spirit a privilege to pay tribute to such a Perpe encouraged me to be strong in the event and you can be certain that she would comfort lovely woman. of the elderly “wise men” then already in council me with such beautiful words of encouragement. trying to intimidate me when I tried to make a She always inspired me to visit as often as I “We know for certain that we never lose the people contribution. I still remember that very clearly. could in that sweet voice which I will not get the we love to death. They continue to participate in opportunity to hear again. our everyday acts, thoughts and decisions we Monday the 29th of May 2023 was one of the make. Their love leaves an indelible mark in our darkest days in my life. I cannot tell exactly what I admired your spirit and fortitude. You exhibited memories. We find comfort in knowing that our made me gloomy, but I felt terrible all day. Various love to all and was on every occasion, more than lives have been enriched by having shared their emotions may come and go but this was an ready to reach out to solve a problem or two. I love” (Leo Buseaglia) exception. My beloved Beatrice noticed and tried have lost a 4th mother in these last 3 years, very to probe to cheer me up, but it didn’t work. I went special people who showed genuine affection to Auntie Perpe as we affectionately called her was to bed unsettled. me. Thousands have passed through your hands a symbol of love and warmth from the very first as an educationist and it goes without saying that day I met her at no.1 Glover Road in Burma camp. I turned on my phone at 4.30am the following they will continue to testify to how you shaped This was at the invitation from her dear son David. morning and the 1st message I read was “Auntie their lives so positively. Perpe couldn’t make it”. This message was sent on Monday night. “Jesus Christ” I screamed. I A beautiful woman in every sense of the word, couldn’t talk to David on phone till I met him in ready to welcome anyone. It hurts to know you Tema later in the afternoon. I sat in front of the are not with us anymore, but we celebrate you book of condolence, and made an attempt to in style. A light on this side of the world has gone write but I froze at seeing the photograph of her dim, but we believe that you are shining brighter staring at me. in the next. Till today I have not been able to do it. Rest well my Dear Auntie Perpe. Forever in our thoughts. It was so painful seeing her slowly succumb a few George. days to her passing and I salute David and siblings 29

Tribute From TRIBUTE TO DANIEL KOFI OWIREDU MUMMY (GRANDMA) It’s been said that a FROM MATILDA mother’s heart is the (GMATRUMI) child’s classroom. I thank God for all that mummy IN LOVING MEMORIES OF MUMMY has taught me through the years. She is a portrait of a Today, we gather together to of perseverance and instilled in us the belief that we can godly mother, and I am proud pay tribute to an extraordinary overcome any obstacle life throws our way. to be her grandson. woman who touched my life in countless ways. Grandma Your kindness,generosity and compassion touched the I still wonder why death will (mummy), you were the epitome of love, lives of everyone you encounted. You taught us the value take you away so soon. My strength and grace and your presence in my of empathy, the importance of giving back and the power heart is full of pain and despair life will forever be cherished. of kind words or gestures. Your legacy will continue to at your loss. You invested in the lives of everyone around live on through the lives you have touched. If someone you, just to make sure they lived a better life. Your warm smile and gentle words had the had told me that a day like this will come, I wouldn’t have power to comfort us during difficult times. believed because I wasn’t expecting it sooner. You gave us everything and made too many sacrifices You were always there to lend a listening ear we can never forget. Mummy, you have been the source or offer words of wisdom that only someone It was my prayer and hope that you will get well and fit of my progress, cheerfulness, courage and a strong pillar with your depth of experience could provide. when you felt ill for short while.. hmm....Only God knows upon which I rest on. You taught me to be generous and Your love was unconditional and we could why it happened that manner. God Fearing, even in that short period that you were always count on you for support and bed – bound and could not talk, you beckoned on me to encouragement. As we say goodbye, we find solace in the knowledge that still do good to others, you prayed for me when I could you are now at peace with your maker. While our hearts not comprehend what you were saying, but seeing you You were more than a mother or ache with the void your absence has left behind. We take raising your hands up in an explicit and unambiguous grandmother to me. You taught me what comfort in the memories we shared and the lessons you way makes it clear to me that, you were praying for me. life is all about and everything I needed to imparted. Your love and spirit will continue to guide and It so painful and heartbreaking that death took you away know as a growing child under your care and remind forever in our hearts. so soon. protection. Your strength and resilience were an inspiration to us all. You faced challenges Thank you, mummy (grandma) for the beautiful Until we meet again, I will continue to love and cherish with unwavering determination and never memories and the unconditional love you have bestowed the memories we shared. Continue to sleep well in the allowed adversity to define you. Your upon me. Your legacy will continue to inspire and guide bosom of the Lord. unwavering spirit taught us the importance me throughout my life. REST IN PERFECT PEACE MUMMY,knowing that you are deeply and profoundly Aunty comfort says fare thee well, damirifa due. Mummy missed. Until we meet again in the great beyond. de Okose3, 0rest in perfect peace, Amen! SAFE JOURNEY HOME..... With love and gratitude. Matilda (Gmatrumi)

A TRIBUTE IN LOVING MEMORY Auntie Cynthia, & their children, Eleanor, Kwabi & The amazing thing was that our family relationship, OF MRS PERPETUA AGYEMFRA, Kwaku), we all bonded and grew even closer into a started a long time ago, because Daddy, a Lieutenant OUR DEAR, “AUNTIE PE’TUA, stronger family unit, no longer friends, but family. in the mid 1960’s, served as a Staff officer under Auntie Pe’tua’s father, the late Colonel Lartey, (the Accra FROM LT COLONEL As children we played together, ate together Garrison Commander). Colonel Lartey took Daddy as a HENDRIE LOLODEM and went to the same military school Garrison son. TOPPAR(RTD) & Primary. Edna always referred to Emefa as her big CHILDREN. sister, Dzifa as her twin, (born just 4 days apart), This was well before marriage and the children came. Lorlor & Kafui as her younger siblings). As a result of this, we had a very close family bond. In The LORD is close to the brokenhearted addition to which, Uncle Francis’s nephew was Daddy’s and saves those who are crushed in As for Lorlor and Charles, they were so much like military helper (buttman), and lived with us. We called spirit. Psalm 34:18 twin brothers. Lorlor found in Charles, a good him Efo Kofi. brother and friend. Their nursery teachers were As a family, when we think of Auntie Pe’tua known to report their escapades and adventures Auntie Pe’tua, you always extended so much love to us. Agyemfra and her family, Uncle Francis, David, together, to the parents. You were so happy when you and Mama bumped into Michael, Edna, Charles and Francis, we are each other in the Market, Peckham, London, 1997. You reminded of this bible verse, Proverbs 18:24 Kafui, the youngest wasn’t happy when we all left both quickly exchanged your London contact details. her in the mornings to attend School. “A man that hath friends must show himself Kafui bothered Mama so much about going to It added flavour to Mama’s holidays. friendly, and there is a friend that sticketh closer school when we left home for school. Mama to than a brother”. have her peace, called Auntie Pe’tua to come take Auntie Pe’tua, your passing has been painful to us all. her to school. We mourn our Auntie Pe’tua, a mothering figure in our We lovingly called you Auntie Pe’tua as Kafui, a lives. She was someone who mothered us, loved us baby then, couldn’t quite pronounce the name, Kafui didn’t cry on leaving or at school. Thus she and always wished us well. Auntie Perpetua, and somehow that name stuck. began school a lot earlier than anticipated. Auntie Pe’tua, your passing is another foundation block As military families, we were blessed to live on Mandatory visits to the dentist were made more of our beautiful childhood, that has been shaken, but the same street in Kumasi, Uaddara Barracks, for bearable as the “formidable “dentist was no other our trust is in the Lord. a period of 2 years and also in Burma Camp, Accra person than our Uncle Victor, Colonel Akrofi. for many more years. We pray that the Lord graciously receives you into His We all recall to date many stories of adventure bosom and welcomes you with joy. We pray for God’s We, Emefa, Dzifa, Lorlor and Kafui are in the seeking fun in Kumasi, *(cross country bicycle peace and comfort for David, Michael, Edna, Charles same age brackets as the Agyemfra Children with riding, looking for gold fish and playing in the rain.... and Francis. David as our big brother. In Kumasi, together with oblivious sometimes, as children are so often, to another family, the Akrofis, (Colonel Victor Akrofi, danger). May the Lord be your comfort. May the Lord be your strength and hope. May God wipe your tears and give We lived in, and went in and out of each others’ you grace needed for each day, this side of Heaven. homes freely, with no inhibition. Our Mothers, (Auntie Cynthia, Auntie Pe’tua and Auntie Grace), We pray with you. were sisters, who lovingly guided as all. Your family, The Toppars, Lt Colonel HL Toppar (Rtd), Emefa, Dzifa, Lorlor and Kafui.������ 31

Tribute From Tribute GARRISON RETIRED From HEADTEACHERS THE GUILD OF THE ASSOCIATION (GHEHA). GOOD SHEPHERD. “We are but travelers in life’s pilgrimage. All too ST STEPHENS ANGLICAN soon we reach our journey’s end. We are CHURCH, TEMA flowers that bloom one moment and drop and perish the next. So teach us to number Loving Shepherd of Thy sheep Stephen she had already held the position our days that we may apply hearts unto wisdom.’’ Keep Thy Lamp in Safety keep of a Master Shepherd and an executive Nothing can Thy power withstand member while at St. George’s. Mrs. Pepertual Agyemfra popularly known by all as Mama None can pluck me from Thy hand Pepe, was the headmistress of Field Engineers Basic School (Hymns Ancient and Modern 334 verse 1) With her attributes of humility, co- in 1980 to 1983 and headed the Garrison Basic School from operation and soft spoken nature, she 1983 to 1990. She then became the Officer in Charge (OIC) of With heavy hearts, we pay settled in very well with the Guild. 5 Garrison Education Unit,a position she held until she retired. tribute to the memory of She helped to instill discipline and hard work in the teachers. our dear sister Opanyin When she became unwell and age caught She was instrumental and one of the founders of the 5 Perpetua Agyemfra. up with her, she still communicated with Garrison Retired Head teachers Association and was the 1st the Guild and offered support in whatever Chairperson of the Association. For it is indeed very difficult in times like these way she could. In turn, we also visited her when one has to sever links with a dear one. as shepherds to ensure the sheep was If God ever created a woman to bring smiles to the faces of safe. many, then our late dear Mama was such a person. She was Opanyin Perpetua joined the Guild at St. always cheerful and a mother to all. She was an excellent Stephen Anglican Church from St. George’s Then came the icy hands of death which counselor and a peace maker. Very good at resolving disputes Anglican Church, Burma Camp in August still remains a mystery and a great loss to and some domestic affairs of teachers. Mama, Mum, Sister 1983. However, before joining the Guild at St. us but for a Christian it is gain. Perpetual you will always be remembered by numerous students and teachers. Thou beloved of a woman, our colleague, sister, mother, friend. Rest in the bosom of the Lord. May you rest in perfect peace. Da yie odofo pa. 32

Tribute From minds of your Sheep at Burma Camp and which GUILD OF GOOD SHEPHERD, will continue to inspire generations yet to come. ST. GEORGE’S GARRISON ANGLICAN We shall continue to treasure sweet memories of CHURCH, BURMA CAMP, ACCRA your stewardship days in Burma Camp. Fare thee well, our sweet and gentle Past Master TO PAST MASTER SHEPHERD MRS. PERPETUA AGYEMFRA Shepherd. Though we will miss your mortal body, we know your spirit lives on and all that you stood It is ironical that at this moment of mourning participate. They would have to knock three times for. These will continue to bear testimony of your and grief, we can still recall the unmeasurable at the door, to endure close inspection of their legacy. pleasure, of the strong bond of friendship appropriate Guild attire, receive the password for Please, shall we (all members of the Guild of Good and togetherness, that was built under the the day before being ushered into the meeting Shepherd here present) rise and sing the 1st leadership of Auntie Perpetua as Master Shepherd room. These were the rules and regulations of Verse of Hymn A & M 334 “Loving Shepherd of of our Guild, when she was with us in Burma the Guild and the Master Shepherd ensured their Thy Sheep. Camp. We can now step back and evaluate her strict compliance. She was strict on punctuality Good night, Sleep well, Due, Due, Damirifa Due! contribution to the growth of our Guild, and say, and uncompromising on proper dressing in Guild Well-done, Ayekoo! You were indeed an example uniform for meetings as well as outdoor functions. 33 in leadership delivery, a great Master Shepherd, who knew how to bring back into your fold, all By this means, she successfully tended and wayward and wandering sheep. Bless you. nurtured her “Sheep” in a way the Great Master Shepherd, Jesus Christ Himself taught His Auntie Perpetua Agyemfra was one of the forty Followers! By this, she became the symbol of (40) Founding members of the Guild in 1983 and what good leadership is, or ought to be. Soft was assigned to Aglionby House. By dint of hard in reproach of erring of stray and wandering work, she was elected Master Shepherd and sheep. A strict disciplinarian yet empathetic, mounted the chair for a term of three (3) years caring and usually playful. She had that unique and because of her hard work, she was re-elected smile which shone through the eyes, which was for a second term which ended in 1991/2. always disarming of stubborn sheep, and which encouraged compliance with Guild rules and She was in the chair at the period when Guild regulations. meetings were held on Mondays at 5:30pm. Master Shepherd Perpetua and her Executives We recall with nostalgia, the many fun times we were seated by 5.20pm (ten minutes before had dancing to Brass Band music at Shepherd time) and the doors to the meeting room was Picnics, laced with laughter, hilarious jokes, binge shut on the strike of the clock at 5.30pm. Late feasting, and sharing loving comradeship. These comers could not sneak into the meeting and were moments that are etched in the hearts and

Tribute From We want to emphasize that Governor Perpetua brought with her, not only the advantage of 30 years FIRST (1ST) BOARD OF GOVERNORS OF of accumulated teacher-experience with skills set BISHOP JOHN DALY BASIC SCHOOL anchored in education specific, but also brought sobriety and calmness during discussions. Because she was DANSOMAN, ACCRA TO GOVERNOR PERPETUA honest and trustworthy, we also decided to make her the Treasurer and entrusted her with the procurement We cannot talk of Bishop John However, by the middle of 1980s, there of building materials. She worked conscientiously and Daly Basic School Dansoman appeared serious stagnation in the growth of the in unison with Governor Joe Banson, who became in historical context without educational aspect. The intake of pupils for the the de-facto unpaid Foreman of Works, to construct mentioning the significant role Day-Care Center, faced serious challenges and on classrooms, workshops and other facilities for the played by Mrs. Perpetua Agyemfra in its growth occasions, the intake fell below 3 pupils. This was school. and development. a serious stagnation. Very serious. Governor Perpetua was charged with the responsibility Way back in 1973/4, a decision was taken by St. So obviously, it was time for strategic change of to sole-source for an Architect and the result of her George’s Garrison Anglican Church, Burma Camp, management and leadership. So it came as no work, is evidenced by what you see today as Bishop to establish a school based on Anglican doctrine. A surprise when at the 1983/4 Vestry meeting, a John Daly Basic School Dansoman. search party led by the then Parish new Board of Education led by Monica Evans- Quayson, as Chairman, Joe Banson, Dorothy Lord- For several years, the Audited Account of the School was Priest Rev. Father J.K. Dadson later Bishop Attivor and Perpetua Agyemfra, were elected to passed without any queries. Nobody was accused of J.K. Dadson began looking for a site around manage and ensure growth for the school. embezzling school funds and no accusation of improper Cantonments but did not succeed. A far-away handling of funds was heard from any quarters. We property located at Dansoman, approximately This team adopted a new title of ‘Board of had a clean record of good governance. For a period 31 kilometers away from Burma Camp, was Governors’ instead of Board of Education as exceeding twenty (20) years, the dwindled Day-Care secured. Undaunted by the long distance, and its known to the Constitution. This change of Center grew steadily in numbers and the pupils were inconveniences, a Day-Care Center was started nomenclature was resisted by some members successfully moved through Nursery, Kindergarten, and which was named after Bishop John Daly, the 2nd of the Congregation, but the dynamic and Primary to Junior High School (JHS). Anglican Bishop of Accra. progressive Parish Priest Rev. Father Maj. Charles Affainie, (now Dean Emeritus Charles K. Affainie of Governor Perpetua, we, the surviving Governors are The property served as an educational unit for Kumasi Diocese) was unfazed and urged the use absolutely gutted by your demise. You knew how Early Childhood Development Center during week of the more appealing title of Board of Governors. saddened we were when Governor Joe Banson passed days, and as a Worship Center for St. Augustine’s His support provided the necessary motivation into glory. Now you have joined him at his address in the Anglican Church, Dansoman on Sundays. A for the Governors to give of their best. We started Heavenly kingdom above. Please pray for the growth beautiful Anglican arrangement between Church calling ourselves, Governor Perpetua, Governor and development of your school, Bishop John Daly Basic and School, you would say. Joe Banson, Governor Dorothy and Governor School Dansoman, Accra. We count on your support Monica. from the Heavens. 34 Sleep well, Governor Perpetua. You did your best and the school is grateful. Sleep well!

Tribute by THE ST. GEORGE’S GARRISON ANGLICAN CHURCH, BURMA CAMP With a deep sense of grief, We hospital and the Dzorwulu home for the physically careless driving on our streets might have slowed as Georgians pay this tribute in challenged. There was also the presentation of her down. She eventually joined the St. Stephens memory of a dedicated, friend and bibles to the 37 military hospital. Used clothes Anglican church, Tema where she exhibited her mentor, Mrs Perpetua Agyemfra and bibles were also presented to the Prisons passion for commitment to her maker. who departed this life on the 29th of May 2023. Service Chaplaincy. This outstanding Georgian played many active Mrs. Agyemfra actually participated in all activities roles in the church notably in the Church council, She played a formidable part in the historic in whatever form the church was organising Guild of the Good shepherd and the Bishop John ground breaking of the Bishop John Daly basic and contributed handsomely during fund raising Daly school. school storey building in Dansoman. With her activities. background as an educationist she served as an In all she demonstrated her total commitment to effective church council member for several years Life is like a stage, one mounts it, plays a part and whatever function she was tasked to execute. and served on various committees in Council. makes an exit. The Guild of the Good Shepherd was inaugurated Auntie Perpetua and family were pillars to our Mrs. Agyemfra came into the world and gallantly on the 15th of October 1983 by the then Chaplain church and demonstrated absolute faith in the played her part and has parted to her maker. We of St.Georges Garrison Anglican Church, Burma Lord. One remarkable test of faith was when her as Georgians will miss her sense of humour, smile camp, Rev.Maj.C K Affainie. eldest son David was involved in a deadly accident and her humble display of formidable faith in God. and needed divine intervention. Mrs Agyemfra was the 6th Master shepherd to May the Good Lord who chose her to be part of have led the group and she accomplished her role Mrs. Agyemfra kept by his bedside, prayed and our lives walk with her into Paradise. in precision and excellence. slept in the ward till her prayers were answered. She was indeed a symbol of solid unshakable “In everything give thanks, for this is the will of She gained ultimate respect from her flock and faith. God in Christ Jesus concerning you”. 1Thes 5.18. that enabled her to win the confidence of her guild to re elect her for another 3 year term. As The family moved out of Burma camp but she still Till we meet again, may her gentle and generous leader, her guild paid regular visits to the Osu drove to church on Sundays. However, with age soul Rest In Peace. Childrens home, Childrens ward at the 37 military catching up with her, and maybe the reckless and 35

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A&M Hymn 437 A&M Hymn 517 Hymns For all the saints who from their labors rest, When all thy mercies, O my God, who thee by faith before the world confessed, my rising soul surveys, A&M Hymn Supp. 40 thy name, O Jesus, be forever blest. transported with the view, I’m lost When peace like a river attendeth my way, Alleluia! Alleluia! in wonder, love, and praise. when sorrows like sea billows roll; Thou wast their rock, their fortress, and their Unnumbered comforts to my soul whatever my lot, thou hast taught me to say, might; Thy tender care bestowed, “It is well, it is well with my soul.” thou, Lord, their captain in the well-fought fight; before my infant heart conceived Refrain: thou, in the darkness dread, their one true light. from whom those comforts flowed. It is well with my soul; Alleluia! Alleluia! When in the slippery paths of youth it is well, it is well with my soul. Oh, may thy soldiers, faithful, true, and bold with heedless steps I ran, Though Satan should buffet, though trials should fight as the saints who nobly fought of old thine arm unseen conveyed me safe, come, and win with them the victor’s crown of gold. and led me up to man. let this blest assurance control: Alleluia! Alleluia! Ten thousand thousand precious gifts that Christ has regarded my helpless estate, Oh, blest communion, fellowship divine! my daily thanks employ, and has shed his own blood for my soul. We feebly struggle, they in glory shine; and not the least a cheerful heart [Refrain] yet all are one in thee, for all are thine. which tastes those gifts with joy. My sin oh, the bliss of this glorious thought! Alleluia! Alleluia! Through every period of my life my sin, not in part, but the whole, And when the fight is fierce, the warfare long, thy goodness I’ll pursue, is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more; steals on the ear the distant triumph song, and after death in distant worlds praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul! [Refrain] and hearts are brave again and arms are strong. the glorious theme renew. O Lord, haste the day when my faith shall be sight, Alleluia! Alleluia! Through all eternity to thee, the clouds be rolled back as a scroll; The golden evening brightens in the west; a joyful song I’ll raise; the trump shall resound and the Lord shall descend; soon, soon to faithful warriors cometh rest; for O, eternity’s too short even so, it is well with my soul. [Refrain] sweet is the calm of paradise the blest. to utter all thy praise. A&M Hymn Supp. 41 Alleluia! Alleluia! On Calvary’s tree, He suffered for me, The just for the unjust that I might be free, His grace is abundant, His love divine, O wonder of wonders, this Saviour is mine. 47

Hymns Safe in the arms of Jesus, 3 Yea, though I walk thro’ death’s dark vale, Safe from corroding care, yet will I fear no ill; The cross that He bore, hath saved us all, Safe from the world’s temptations, for Thou art with me, and Thy rod And washed away all sins that tarnished us, Sin cannot harm me there. and staff me comfort still. This great sacrifice of the Lord divine, Free from the blight of sorrow, 4 My table Thou hast furnishéd O wonder of wonders, this savior is mine. Free from my doubts and fears; in presence of my foes; His death on the cross atones for our sins, Only a few more trials, my head Thou dost with oil anoint, The sins of the world that He taketh away, Only a few more tears. and my cup overflows. He conquered the grave supremely divine. [Refrain] 5 Goodness and mercy all my life O wonder of wonders, this Saviour is mine. Jesus, my heart’s dear refuge, shall surely follow me: Death has no more power, O’er the Saviour dear, Jesus has died for me; and in God’s house forevermore The Saviour Christ Jesus who rose from the dead. Firm on the Rock of Ages, my dwelling place shall be.´ Thus sing Alleluia to Christ divine, Ever my trust shall be. A&M Hymn 290 O wonder of wonders, this Saviour is mine. Here let me wait with patience, Through all the changing scenes of life, A&M Hymn Supp. 51 Wait till the night is o’er; In trouble and in joy Safe in the arms of Jesus, Wait till I see the morning The praises of my God shall still Safe on His gentle breast, Break on the golden shore. My heart and tongue employ. There by His love o’ershaded, [Refrain] O magnify the Lord with me, Sweetly my soul shall rest. With me exalt His name; Hark! ’tis the voice of angels, A&M Hymn Supp. 57 When in distress to him I called, Borne in a song to me, 1 The LORD’s my Shepherd, I’ll not want. He to my rescue came. Over the fields of glory, He makes me down to lie The Hosts of God encamp around, Over the jasper sea. in pastures green; He leadeth me The dwellings of the just; Refrain: the quiet waters by. Deliverance he affords to all, Safe in the arms of Jesus, 2 My soul He doth restore again; Who on His succour trust. Safe on His gentle breast, and me to walk doth make O make but trial of His love, There by His love o’ershaded, within the paths of righteousness, Experience will decide Sweetly my soul shall rest. e’en for his own name’s sake. How bless’d are they, and only they Who in His truth confide. 48

Fear Him, ye saints, and you will then, Now they reign in heav’nly glory, Hymns Have nothing else to fear; Now they walk in golden light, Make you His service your delight Now they drink, as from a river, are decked in glorious sheen. Your wants shall be His care. Holy bliss and infinite; There is the throne of David; To Father, Son and Holy Ghost, Love and peace they taste for ever, and there, from care released, The God whom we adore, And all truth and knowledge see the shout of them that triumph, Be glory, as it was, is now In the beatific vision the song of them that feast; And shall be evermore. Of the blessèd Trinity. and they, who with their Leader A&M Hymn 436 God of God, the one-begotten, have conquered in the fight, Hark! the sound of holy voices, Light of Light, Emmanuel, forever and forever Chanting at the crystal sea: In whose body joined together are clad in robes of white. Alleluia, alleluia, All the saints for ever dwell; O sweet and blessed country, Alleluia, Lord, to thee: Pour upon us of thy fullness, the home of God’s elect! Multitude, which none can number, That we may for evermore O sweet and blessed country Like the stars in glory stands, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit that eager hearts expect! Clothed in white apparel, holding Truly worship and adore. In mercy, Jesus, bring us Palms of victory in their hands. A&M Hymn 228 to that dear land of rest, Patriarch and holy prophet, Jerusalem, the golden, who are, with God the Father, Who prepared the way of Christ, with milk and honey blest, and Spirit, ever blest. King, apostle, saint, confessor, beneath your contemplation A&M Hymn 499 Martyr and evangelist, sink heart and voice oppressed; On the resurrection morning Saintly maiden, godly matron, I know not, O I know not Soul and body meet again; Widows who have watched in prayer, what joys await me there, No more sorrow, no more weeping, Joined in holy concert, singing what radiancy of glory, No more pain. To the Lord of all, are there. what bliss beyond compare! Here awhile they must be parted, They have come from tribulation, They stand, those halls of Zion, And the flesh its abbath keep, And have washed their robes in blood, all jubilant with song, Waiting in a holy stillness, Washed them in the blood of Jesus; and bright with many an angel, Wrapt in sleep. Tried they were, and firm they stood; and all the martyr throng; For a while that tired body Gladly, Lord, with thee they suffered; the Prince is ever in them, Lies with feet toward the morn; Gladly, Lord, with thee they died, the daylight is serene; Till there breaks the last and brightest And by death to life immortal the pastures of the blessed Easter born. They were born and glorified. 49

Hymns We ask them whence their victory came Will your anchor hold in the floods of death, They with united breath when the waters cold chill your latest breath? But the soul in contemplation Ascribe their conquest to the lamb On the rising tide you can never fail, Utters earnest prayers and strong; Their triumph to his death while your anchor holds within the veil. [Refrain] Bursting at the resurrection They mark’d the footsteps that He trod Will your eyes behold through the morning light Into song. His zeal inspired their breast the city of gold and the harbour bright? Soul and body reunited, And following their incarnate God, Will you anchor safe by the heavenly shore, Thenceforth nothing shall divide, They reach’d the promised rest. when life’s storms are past for evermore? Waking up in Christ’s own likeness, Our glorious Leader claims our praise [Refrain] Satisfied. For His own pattern given, A&M 223 Oh, the beauty, oh, the gladness While the great cloud of witnesses HARK, hark, my soul! Angelic songs are swelling Of that resurrection-day! Show the same path to heav’n. O’er earth’s green fields, and ocean’s wave-beat Which shall not through endless ages, shore; Pass away! MHB 634 How sweet the truth those blessed strains are On that happy Easter morning Will your anchor hold in the storms of life, telling; All the graves their dead restore, when the clouds unfold their wings of strife? Of that new life when sin shall be no more. Father, sister, child and mother, When the strong tides lift, and the cables strain, Refrain: Meet once more. will your anchor drift, or firm remain? Angels of JESUS, Angels of light, To that brightest of all meetings, Refrain: Singing to welcome the pilgrims of the night! Bring us, Jesus Christ, at last; We have an anchor that keeps the soul Onward we go, for still we hear them singing, To Thy cross, through death and judgment, steadfast and sure while the billows roll; Come, weary souls, for JESUS bids you come; Holding fast. fastened to the Rock which cannot move, And through the dark its echoes sweetly ringing, A&M 623 grounded firm and deep in the Saviour’s love! The music of the Gospel leads us home. Give us the wings of faith to rise Will your anchor hold in the straits of fear, Far, far away, like bells at evening pealing, Within the veil, and see when the breakers roar and the reef is near? The voice of JESUS sounds o’er land and sea, The saints above, now great their joys While the surges rage, and the wild winds blow, And laden souls, by thousands meekly stealing, How bright their glories be shall the angry waves then your bark o’erflow? Kind shepherd, turn their weary steps to Thee. Once they were mourning here Below, [Refrain] And wet their couch with tears; They wrestled hard , as we do now, With sins and doubt, and fears 50