Queen Vic brochure

MRS. VICTORIA A. LEIGH 1

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Burial and Thanksgiving Service at 9.00 am, Saturday 29th July 2023 OFFICIATING MINISTERS / AGENTS 1. Rev. Dr. William Korley Quaye 2. Rev. Mrs. Rita Dorcas Awuley 3. Rev. Joseph Yaw Asan-Ntow 4. Rev. Emmanuel Nii Noi Okwei 5. Cat. Christian Kweku Gyasi Adu-Gyamfi 6. Cat. Susie Bannerman 4

Order of Service PART 1 – AT THE CHAPEL Scripture Sentences - Rev. Mrs. Rita Dorcas Awuley Hymn - PHB 777 (1-3) Prayer - Cat. Christian Kweku Gyasi Adu-Gyamfi Song - Church Choir Biography - (Family) Tributes - (Children, Siblings & Church) Bible Reading (2 Cor. 5:1,6-8) - Presbyter Hymn - PHB 502 (1-2) Sermon - Rev. Dr. William Korley Quaye Thanksgiving Prayer - Rev. Dr. William Korley Quaye Christian Charity - Organist / Choir Dedication of Offertory - Cat. Christian Kweku Gyasi Adu-Gyamfi Announcements - Presbyter Closing Hymn - PHB 841 (1-3) Benediction - Rev. Dr. William Korley Quaye Song - Ebenezer Recessional Hymn - PHB 792 PART II – AT THE GRAVE SIDE Scripture Sentences - Minister Hymn - PHB 833 (1-2) Exhortation - Minister Committal - Minister Closing Hymn - PHB 549 (1-2) Vote of Thanks - Family Member Benediction - Minister 5

Biography OF THE LATE VICTORIA ANYANKOBEA LEIGH (NÉE BAMPOE) In the early hours of Sunday October 8th 1939, Mr gracefully, with a quiet disposition, diligent with her Samuel Kwaku Frimpong Bampoe and Madam studies, jovial, humble and a friend to all. Florence Maa Adjoa Hesse, both of blessed memory, welcomed a bouncing baby girl to the family. She was On 1st October 1959, three months after successfully later named Victoria Anyankobea Bampoe. completing her course at the Government Secretariat School, she joined the then Barclays Bank D.C.O Auntie Vic, as she later came to be affectionately called (Dominion, Colonial and Overseas) now ABSA Ghana. by family members, started her primary education She spent her first four years, including a probationary at the Adabraka Presbyterian Primary School from period of six months, at the High Street branch in Accra. 1946 to 1953 then continued to the Government Her duties included secretarial work, ledger keeping, Girls School in Mokola, Accra, for her Middle School machine operation and varied clerical responsibilities. Education from 1953 to 1957. She later gained admission to the prestigious Between 1969 and 1981 she had stints with Knutsford Government Secretarial School in Accra and Avenue, Avenue Central and Circle Branches, all in successfully completed the course in June 1959. Accra. In all these stages of her education, her classmates In 1982 while at the Circle Branch, her continuous described her as one who always carried herself impressive commitment to duty, her high level of 6

performance generally and pleasant manners caught Even in retirement she continued to maintain a cordial the eyes of the Bank Management. She was accordingly relationship with her colleagues, having joined the promoted to join the Senior Staff in a \"B\" Signatory Retired Staff Association immediately after retirement. status. She later worked in the same capacity at the She was an active participant in the activities of the Kaneshie Branch. Association until her health started to decline. She retired voluntarily on 11th December 1996 As a keen Christian, she hastened to join the Women’s without any blemish. Her character was stated as Fellowship of this church (Calvary Congregation) when exemplary. she moved to Haatso and remained a vibrant member until her health suffered some challenges. Auntie Vic spent most of her working life time living at Osu. In 1997 she moved to live in her own house Auntie Vic is survived by five adult children, three at Haatso. males and two females and many grandchildren and great grandchildren to mourn her. With her demise, the family has lost a precious matriarch, a virtuous woman, who touched many Auntie Vic hearts and was a mother figure to her work mates as Yaaw‫ כ‬ojo gbann well as family members. Most of the people around her Amen!!! drank from her fountain of knowledge and wisdom. 7

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Tributes from Family and Friends 9

Eulogy to Queen Victoria from your Children My flesh and my heart faileth: but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion forever.” We are gathered here today in the memory We owe our life values to mum, and we are eternally of our dear mother ,so that together we grateful for her life. We are better fathers, husbands, may acknowledge and share both our joy mothers, wives friends, mentors and role models in the gift that her life was to us, and the pain that because of the life of our mother, and that is her true her passing brings. In sharing the joy and the pain everlasting legacy. Your demise is anathema to our together,  may we lessen the pain and remember more gentle soul.  clearly the joy. Mum, you dwell in that safe place in our hearts, where One of the most important things in Mum’s life was no storm or pain can reach you. Your love was like the her longing for a strong family unit. Families boost dawn, brightening our very lives, awakening beneath confidence and make us feel loved. Mum provided the the darkness that lay concealed.The sound ofyourvoice resources and gave us the pillars of our strength, we found for us a new tune that brightened everything we became better people with the values of love, respect, did and touched. Whatever you enfolded in your gaze , endurance, faith, hope, and a perpetual yearning for quickened in the joy of its being. You placed smiles like culture, tradition and service to mankind . flowers on the altar of every heart you encountered. 10

In your presence, beauty brightens, kindness glows, and music echoes timeless and immortal tones. Because of you, we entered each day with a generous heart to serve the call of courage and love . Mum was a woman of substance and value with a kind, warm and generous personality. She had a strong faith in God and offered respectful service to mankind. In losing you, we lost our sun and moon altogether. Your body is away from us, but there is an open window from our hearts to yours. From this window, we will keep sending secret messages, and together, we shall find comfort and solace. You were the reason we kept trudging along through life with big giant steps, and now we are helpless without you. Our unquenchable tears are not a sign of weakness but rather our memories playing out in front of our eyes. All that we are, or hope to be, we owe to our angel mother.” We are born of love; Love is our mother.” When you look into your mother’s eyes, you know that is the purest love you can find on this earth.” A mothers love is always with her children. We thank God for mums life, a beautiful life well lived. She loved everyone unconditionally. Touching lives was her earthly mission. She was truly a woman of grace and dignity and her infectious smile, gentle laughs and warm (Hellos), brightens up our world without fear of the future. She was very loyal, inspirational, trustworthy, a cherished confidant and an incredible ROLE MODEL. We feel honoured and privileged to have been your children. You are the epitome of a BEST MOTHER anyone could ask for. Beauty with brains. You opened your mouth with so much wisdom and words of encouragement. Your teachings of love, service and kindness will forever be in our hearts. Once again we thank you for your sacrifices to ensure we were always comfortable and we shall be forever grateful to you . Fare Thee Well...OUR SWEET MUM Fare Thee Well...OUR ANGEL Fare Thee Well.... OBAATANPA QUEEN VICTORIA 11

Tribute by Siblings In 2 Corinthians 5:1, the Apostle Paul assures us thus: mother who was humble, gentle, peaceful, freely- giving and who had a heart of gold. “For we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, Auntie Vic was always a cool, calm and collected lady, not built by human hands.” and the very embodiment of courtesy, politeness and diplomacy. It is our belief that, if our dear Sister Vic’s earthly body or tent is destroyed through death, she has As we look back at her life, we can say with a lesser a building, a heavenly house from God, an eternal degree of sorrow and a high degree of pride that our mansion in heaven, not built by human hands, mother hen, flew away on that fateful Tuesday morning where her soul is presently resting peacefully. of May 16th, without a parting word to her many baby Amen. chicks. Our dear sister, who, out of respect and adoration, On that day, a Mighty Oak tree fell, our world was we affectionately called Auntie Vic, was a well-loved turned upside down and the family was left in complete matriarch of the Bampoe family, a quintessential disarray and bereft. 12

We all owe Auntie Vic an overwhelming sense of gone. We will smile, just as you always did, because gratitude for her love, guidance, the many deeply of the beautiful memories we have of you. We shall interesting, rewarding and memorable times we spent always be inspired by your enduring contribution to together with her. our world. Memorable thoughts of you will continue to linger on in our minds and hearts for years to come. We will all remember and miss her great sense of humour. She will not have a conversation with you for Finally, from an old Irish blessing, we pray: half an hour without sharing a couple of rib cracking jokes. May the Lord cause the road to rise up to meet you, Auntie Vic; As a keen Christian, she carried herself gracefully May the wind be always at your back, sweet sister; always. Nobody remembers her ever raising her voice May the sun shine warmly upon your face, Queen Victoria; under any circumstances. Occasionally, she would be May the rains fall softly upon your fields, Sister heard giving an order which was always preceded by Anyankobea; ‘Allez mlȁ mlȁ …..’ And until we meet again, May God hold you in the palm of His hand. Auntie Vic gave us all her time and substance. She Auntie Vic, continue to Rest in Peace and Rise in Glory. was everybody’s mother, everybody’s friend and was always kind and true, slow to anger and swift to forgive Sister Anyankobea and forget. Rest in Perfect Peace Yaaw‫ כ‬ojo gbann Losing Auntie Vic has been difficult and hard to bear, Amen!!! however we are grateful to God for giving us such a loving sister, a noble and virtuous pilgrim to hallow the ground that we all have to traverse on our onward march to the heavenly realms. With her unexpected demise, death has dealt us a painful blow. Oh yes, death has been truly cruel to us. We will sorely miss her’, but in all things, we will continue to thank God for her life which was well lived. Sleep on Auntie Vic; adieu good sister, and find peace with your Maker, as you take rest from your earthly labours. We, your well-loved siblings you’ve left behind, who cherish you so much, will not cry because you are 13

A Tribute To A Special Sister (Sis Vic) From Dr. Andrew Nai Patterson (USA) It is only the heart that loves that feels the pain of a parting one, and that is the state which you have left us. This is how I feel as I mourn our dear sister, a woman so loving, caring, humble, generous, peaceful and understanding has left our lives leaving such a great vacuum that can never be filled. I cannot find enough words to express how much you meant to me. I don’t want my brothers and sisters to feel jealous, Vic, your type is so rare to find. You took great interest in helping, always sacrificing and going great lengths to ensure that everything went smoothly. Your sincere love for my late wife Vida was so remarkable. You kept her belongings in one of your bedrooms over five years after her passing. Thank you and thank you. Not forgetting how you managed my finances at the Barclays Bank. You also made me use your house plan for my second house in Ghana. Perry Como’s song ‘’ And I love you so, when people ask me why I tell them I don’t know “. You phoned me occasionally to check on me and to ask how I was doing and coping, your passing has been too sudden without any goodbyes. I will no more hear your calling me, Bro Nai oh, Bro Nai oh, for the first thirty seconds, to ask me to call often. Sister Vic, you will be missed by all of us. He gaveth and He taketh. The good Lord will take care of you till we meet again. Yaa Wo Odzogbann!!!. 14

Tribute from Cousins To us, cousin Victoria was hospitable, humble ago from the UK. She and always willing to help look after people. was so very hospitable She took a maternal role at a very young age and fun to be with. My when her mother passed away. siblings and I can say she was a natural mum and Thankfully, she had a great teacher, her grandmother carried out her duties to Aadzama (now deceased) to steer her through those perfection whether it was difficult times. to care for her nephews and nieces or others not She was like a sister to us for a while until we were even related to her. blessed with our own sister Sophia Nana Oye after 5 boys!!’ Oh what a loss!! Both Sophia and l had the pleasure of spending some Her children benefitted a great deal from her love and time with her when we travelled to Ghana a few years attention. She used her natural skills to create some income from ingredients available to her so she could support her regular banking job comfortably. Her children can call her “Blessed”. She speaks with wisdom and faithful instruction is on her tongue - Proverbs 31:27. Many women do noble things but you surpass them all. Proverbs 31:29. Cousin Victoria Nyankobia, we hope to meet you one day at the city gate !!! 15

In Memory Of My Dear Mother In-Law by Mr. Eric Adjei “Everything that happens in this world happens at the time God chooses.  He sets the time for birth and the time for death; the time for sorrow and time for joy; the time for mourning and the time for dancing. (Eccl. 3:1, 2&4) It is with deep sense of gratitude to God that I pay this tribute to the memory of my mother- in-law. Her untimely demise has left us bewildered and engulfed in grief far beyond what I accord to the dead.  Mama as I called her came to serve and was a willing vessel in the hands of the Lord.  She overcame all obstacles with firmness of purpose and a sturdy hand and her faith was unflinching. She warmly embraced me when I walked into her home.  She made me a part of the family and one of her own children.   I have been robbed of a loving mother as well as a true friend.  My mother-in-law spent most of her annual leave with us in the US to bond with her grandsons.  She was always there for us. It appears no amount of weeping can alleviate the pain inflicted by this irreplaceable loss.  However I take consolation in the fact that Mama after courageously fighting the fight and finishing the race has fulfilled her purpose on earth. Mama we appreciate every moment you spent with us and for all your time, we are grateful indeed.  We are proud of you and will never forget how wonderful a person you were.  Just know that we loved you, respected your contributions to our lives and do cherish your role in the family.   The Almighty Father has welcomed you back home into his bosom.  It’s all eternal rest.  We pray the perpetual light would always shine upon you now and forever. Adieu, Mama.  Sweet repose. 16

Tribute to Aunty Vic by nieces and nephews We gather here today to celebrate the be asked to life of a wonderful woman, who was prepare any not only an aunt but a true inspiration dish of our to all who knew her. She was a woman interest. Her who showed us the true meaning of love, kindness and hospitality was accommodation. unmatched, and she always She always had a smile on her face and made everyone went the extra who crossed her path feel welcome. This extended to mile to ensure our spouses and friends who accompanied us on our that her visits. Her warm and loving nature made it impossible guests were not to be drawn towards her. She had a kind heart pampered and and was always willing to go out of her way to help cared for. She someone in need. Those of us who attended Legon never wanted looked forward to going to Haatso every now and us to leave then to unwind. each time we visited. As an aunt, she treated her nieces and nephews as if they were her own children. She looked forward We will forever cherish the memories we have of this to our calls and when we don’t call for a while she beautiful soul. Her passing has left a great void in our would demand for our calls and would usually begin lives, but we take comfort in knowing that she is now the conversation with “mԑni okԑ mii be? to wit “Why, in a better place. do you have a bone to pick with me”? She was a true role model and mentor to her extended family, always Dear Aunty Vic or Anyakwabea as some of us offering sage advice and guidance. Particularly, she was affectionately called you, your legacy will live on in fond of encouraging us to give her more grandchildren the hearts of those who loved and knew you. Your to be all around her. kindness, love, and accommodation will never be forgotten. Rest in peace, knowing that you were truly Her accommodating nature was a testament to her loved and admired by many. selflessness. She made sure everyone who came to her house felt at home and comfortable. Ako would 17

Tribute from Grandchildren For there is a time for everything, a season for every activity under the sun. A time to be born and a time to die. (Eccl. 3:1-2) Grandma, we are thankful to the most high for blessing us with you. Your grace, love and kindness that shone so bright. Even with age, you were always graceful, well spoken. ‘Black truly does not crack’. Distance kept us from being ever present with you but we are thankful that you got to see your grandchildren and great grandchildren. Some may say a gaping hole has been left behind but that hole is filled with memories that will not fade, of a life well lived. We celebrate you not mourn you. Rest in perfect peace Grandma A Tribute To Our Beloved Aunt Mama, it is hard to believe that the angels have packed you home at a time we least expected. We do wonder if we will ever find anyone to take your place! You left a hallow no one can ever fill halfway. Mama, you always worked hard to ensure there was food and upkeep for your family at all times. We are grateful for our time with you because you were a lovely and caring person, who touched many lives. We miss you. Surely Mama, our love for you will forever remain. Fare thee well Mama May you rest in peace From: Nana Oye and JC 18

Tribute by Maame Anna “A light from our lives has gone, a voice we love is still. A you for your generousity place is vacant in our heart’s which never can be filled”. - towards me. Anita Burke I’m grateful for the many hours we spent talking on I pay tribute to you today because you are special and line 500929 before other very dear to me. Even though I’m your niece you’ve distractions distruped this always made me feel like your very own. routine. You listened and made my big issues seem You answered God’s surmon home to eternity on my so insignificant. You were birthday, that’s special. I take it as God’s way of telling my rock. me not to forget you and I won’t anytime soon. “Those we love never truly leave us. There are things that death I appreciate you for being cannot touch” Jack Thorne. there by my side during my first experience as a I assumed you will be around for a long time so I took a mother. The hand holding, lot for granted. the couching, the nursing, the dedication, it’s an endless list of gratitude. Let’s start with forgiving me for the periodical absence of visits just to check on you. I know you loved me You didn’t stop there but continued extending your love regardless. and affection to my children. You showered them with love and precious gifts. Thank you my dearest. I would typically walk into your home shouting your name Mrs Leeeeeigh. You would respond with the usual, These words do not do justice to the depth of admiration, Maame Anna n3 loo’, then the hugs that follow, that gratitude and appreciation I feel. I know you knew that I made my day. I always left beeming with smiles knowing loved and appreciated you, I take solace in that. that I just experienced pure affection. You left me with no doubt that I had a special place in your heart. My beautiful, kind, warm hearted Lady Victoria Akosua Anyankobea Leigh, may your gentle soul rest well in the I look back and I do sincerely appreciate all those precious bossom of the Almighty. goodies you gave me each term that I left for Secondary School. May you live on forever in our heart’s as you continue to watch over us in spirit. We will always do our best not to Thank you for signing my SSNIT loan for me and my friend depart from the Christian principle’s you exuded. in University without a care of just maybe losing some of your pension. Sorry for all the bashing you had to take ‘The life of one we love is never lost. It’s influence goes from my dad because of this opportunity you gave me. on through all the lives it eves touched’ Christopher Dear Auntie thank you so much for having my back. Holloway During my early working life, there were many times Your job is Done Auntie. you loaned me money and other accessories graciously without hesitation. Some of which I paid back and other’s Yaawo Ojo gbann that became a bad debt. I will always be indebted to 19

From Nana Addo Atuah (Grand Nephew) Grandma Vic, I didn’t know you well but through you I knew what happiness was. You were the foundation of all my favorite childhood memories. The beginning of my life started in New York with you. You were at my birth and first to hold me besides my mother. She always regales me with stories about how you cared for us whilst we were far away from home. I remember my early days at Osu with grandma Mina, and you visiting us often. I would not have lived the life I did if you were not part of it. To see you and Grandma Mina share moment’s together brought boundless joy to my heart, laughing together about things only you knew, but sharing such a genuine and joyous laugh that I just had to laugh with you…I will never forget that. I will also never forget how much closer you brought me to my cousins Nathaniel, Teddy and Jerry, the football games we would played in your backyard, the meals we’d share in your kitchen, and the silly games with kalypoo boxes we’d play in your hallway. Grandma Vic I never knew you well enough but I have loved you endlessly, because through you I have grown to know what love is. 20

Tribute by Belinda Bruwaa Bampoe to Mrs. Victoria Anyankobea Leigh (Naa Bampoe) It is with deep sorrow I pay this tribute to my dear Aunty, Mrs. Victoria Leigh (Nee Bampoe) who weaffectionately called “Aunty Vic” or “Mama”. I am sad, but I take courage and accept the untimely death of my dear Aunty Vic, I know that God knows best He knows why he has called her to Glory. When our mother passed away, you took it upon yourself to play the role of a mother and you were great at it. Aunty Vic was loving, caring, hardworking, very peaceful, hospitable to everyone and above all prayerful, she was a doting Aunty. You were loved, adored and respected by all who came into contact with you. You were always ready to advice and discipline us when we go wrong and also instilled Christian values and morals in us. You inculcated the love of God in your family which bonded us closely and ensured that no one missed church service on Sundays especially. As we grew older and wiser, we began to realize what our Aunty was trying to instill in us. That discipline was for our own good and self development. Today, most of us have our own children, we have raised and still raising them by the same standards that you set for us. Thank you Mama, you will forever be missed. As we bid Aunty Vic, farewell on your endless journey today, we know that the stars will welcome you with so much warmth and the angels will find a befitting place for you to rest eternally. As your shinning light fades away into the sunset and the fear of the unknown brings us to tears, we will stay strong, smiling and say goodbye as your angel awaits you with open arms to welcome you into heaven’s open door. Mama Rest In Peace Yaawo Dzogban 21

Tribute from Mrs Joyce Tetteh to the memory of “My Auntie Vic” the woman whose love knew no boundaries Mathew 22: 37-40 Jesus said to him.” You shall love interest in me 37 years ago when I joined the the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul bank with no potential in me. and with all your mind”. This is the first commandment and the second is like it. “You shall love your neighbor as • Can’t thank you enough for everything you have yourself”. On these two commandments hang all the law done for me. One day when I write a book your name will feature prominently in it. and the prophets. • Took me as your own daughter. Your home IN LIFE EVERY ONE became my home, your children became my SHOULD HAVE AN siblings and your family my family. AUNTIE VIC. • Obviously present at every ceremony of mine. My Auntie Vic, You shared in my joys and challenges. You were where do I start one of my best cheerleaders. and how do I write a befitting tribute • Really hurts that you left too early. On mothers’ to your memory. day when I visited with Victor and Mydear there The woman who was no sign you will be leaving soon. took me as one of her own at a time • I will forever be grateful to God that our paths when nobody knew the potential in me. A 37 year crossed at Barclays Bank and I became one of relationship has ended abruptly without any good your own. So many other things followed by byes. I am short of words to describe this angel that virtue of our relationship which I will cherish became my mum in 1986 when I joined Barclays Bank forever. (now Absa Bank) as a young lady. I have treasured this relationship so much and never thought it will end so • Ayekoo mother of all. Now the labourer’s task soon. There is so much to say and I don’t even know is over. I pray that the good Lord will give you where to start so I decided to use your first name eternal rest in His bossom. Victoria to summarise what you were to me. Auntie Vic, Mrs. Leigh, Anyankwabea, “Painty na • Very loving, caring and accommodative to a fault. mento”, “wese wese”, rest well in the bossom of the Your love for me knew no boundaries. Lord. Victor, Mydear and Papa Nii say sleep on in the bossom of the Lord. Someday we shall meet again. • I still can’t understand why you developed an I know you will see Kwasi my late nephew you loved so much and spoke about every time we met. Tell him we send our love. 22

Tribute by Maa Vic When they say you are someone’s name sake it is often assumed that you are supposed to be similar, but fortunately or unfortunately that was not the truth with me and Auntie Vic. We were a clear definition of complete opposites, I guess that was why we got along so well. One thing we however had in common I can say, was our smile. She had a soft welcoming smile which I believe I had picked up. She was quiet, gentle, soft spoken, caring and always there for everyone all the time. A true gem. I remember sending my noisy puppy over to her house and my puppy Bo is not only noisy but also a very troublesome dog. Auntie Vic being who she was, calm and gentle; was bothered by that, but she never said a thing. She only often brought up the good memories of how my dog barks so loud but moves backwards simultaneously, afraid of those she intends to attack but equally willing to protect its family, and that was us. We always laughed about that. This is one memory of her I will always keep among numerous others I cannot pen down or mention for lack of space. She is my mother, my friend, my Friday gisting partner and more or less my life line. Sleep well Mum Sleep well Aunty And may we meet again in Gods own time. I am confident and assured that you are with our dear Father, at peace, joyful and smiling gently as always. YAA WO JOBAN!!!! 23

A Tribute by Nieces Betty, Marylyn and Esther “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your continue to fill us anytime we remember you, and your ways my ways,” Isaiah 55:8 benevolent smile will lift our hearts anytime we hear your name. Auntie Vic, Mama Vic, Mama! We cannot believe that you’ve left us so suddenly to be with Admittedly, we have lost a precious jewel; if death our redeemer. You’ve been a mother to me, were stoppable, we would have kept it from coming and my siblings and your sudden demise has your way but God knows best. unexpectedly terminated the moments we enjoyed with you. We shall indeed miss your sweet smile, comforting Auntie Vic, you were ever so kind, generous and always words and how special we felt and fulfilled not only in your very friendly to us. You were a gem and will remain to presence but when talking to you. be cherished. Betty will never forget the last time she spoke with Surely Mama Vic, our love for you will forever remain. you in Nii’s car driving back after attending Ekow’s anniversary in London. When you recognised the Dammirifa due. Nantew Yiye. Yaawo Odwogba. voice, you were so happy and exclaimed, “mbi Betty oooo pɔɔ pɔɔ ketɛ mbi Betty ooo pɔɔ ketɛ”! Your voice still echoes in my ears and makes me tearful. I wished you a very Happy Mother’s Day and your usual words were so comforting, ending “...I love you”. The next day was a Monday, and I was so excited to see you on ZOOM with family and friends to celebrate Ben’s 50th birthday party. I called Nii on Tuesday morning because I knew Nii was still enjoying the aftermath of the birthday with Ben in Luton. He did not pick up the phone and later called to give me the sad and shocking news. Now I cannot fulfil my promise, because you will not be at your residence to receive me. Mama, we are consoled that  you were a beautiful flower plucked from the flower bed to be a sweet- smelling presence for us all. Sweet memories will 24

JeteblonwoAhyeoioucmlmklovnbieayntnira.hqeg(in1nuhVsfCgeaoioorcbtrferwata.tshcnha1akdrde5tdetr:mhea2etotno6sahseun),etmryHHhrieyneoeectthdthvhoiiaieosaeyrunswmsn.w.aseSdhmooiltoewoandnrsgeeyGiaaanltoinrgkhede HdrhhefegmpeahomdatoarmomhletisehdwfahmismmoltaoyehirIy.IsbrmAasceaweWsubhe.rawinyeIllnhlaswtrhadisesiiielldashheerkhgvvVeee”sieeeetniah’tdckdtsfnh,enaIttMdioraeiehcwtsrawhyoasbeaghsmao,ihsaneaenaiaspnnimtdnhwnladh.adesowoetSssfmwuwieaortoleyenehrdonsmnicuou“oitanThlrrstdflrthhe.loerSeirIeorscs’demrdattcmiihoymusooseoecnnhemr“ed.AmsatwOyaootmdbtriouotenyeeehnrbrirnee.SetsetIjcodhncoaoqehe,eybe”fuo.myvlhitmeotOehoyhetlyre’,phesye,r By Jenifer Anyankobea Bampoe By Christabel Bampoe Botchway MytwhohnaIoeuaesomcdBfnsultolwiyeakdEtmed,aaJdnenyostiafegrchoeooseniaaounurtnItttgeaetosfhaOoheoceftmrprpfrtosrmeouolyhmakctefeeuoystaif,inhlommBopytdboranihoionutuwmlaeuytgctutphi.thresoiImYme.ooleryorsweneoautmclyroeiigannb.dlrmtlaaeemeWoltradlmesyyGoafiyrusenwhtodeldhdauhsIuenhoascbaaaumGalesdonItconibintdodadsoeeruntyeiynsot.anaoeuofrIsutetsaeo.ll 25

Tribute By Bbg / Absa Retired Staff Association to the memory of the Late Mrs Victoria Leigh (Nèè Bampoe) Auntie Vic as she was affectionately called by on 29th April, 1982 and Accra Avenue Central Branch colleagues and customers alike joined the on 5th August, 1993, where she worked assiduously then Barclays Bank D.C.O. now Absa on 1st as a “B” signatory till 10th December, 1996. Auntie Vic October 1959 and was stationed at the Accra was very affable and had pleasant manners admired High Street Branch where she started her Banking by all. She was caring, thoughtful and loved genuinely. career. She served the mandatory probationary period of six (6) months during which time she was taken She found joy in the little things of life. She was a role through the rudiments of the profession at the Branch model and counselor to all her colleagues both old and as well as the Bank’s Training School in Accra. young most especially the younger ones. Auntie Vic was always full of smiles and had ready made jokes She diligently worked in almost all the departments for all. Auntie Vic was a loving friend who extended reserved for beginners. Due to her experience in typing, her friendship to her friends’ families, a rare attribute, she was assigned the duty of typing all official letters indeed. She was a lady of humble disposition and with the additional responsibility as a telephonist. always ready to help others and support them in This dual role she discharged efficiently much to the whatever way she could. admiration of her colleagues and superiors. When one got closer to Auntie Vic , one would notice On 11th April, 1965 Auntie Vic was transferred to the that she always radiated warmth. Auntie Vic was a Accra Knutsford Avenue Branch where armed with the very jovial person who always wore a smile and had knowledge and experience she had acquired from her very good humanitarian attitude towards staff and previous Branch she assumed duty as a Ledger Clerk customers alike. Auntie Vic retired honourably on and a Machine operator. Auntie Vic continued her 11th December, 1996 to take a well deserved rest hard work and dedication and was again transferred after an unblemished service to the bank spanning 38 on 11th February 1969 to Accra Circle Branch where years!!. Auntie Vic joined the BBG/ABSA Retired Staff she worked as a general clerical staff, doing all clerical Association soon after retirement and was a loyal and work in various departments of the Branch. No matter active member until her call to eternity on 16th May, how exacting any duty assigned her was, Auntie Vic 2023. She met all her financial obligations promptly never complained, as her only focus was to have the without fail. job done! As Macbeth famously said “Time and hour runs through the roughest day”. After decades of Auntie Vic, you will be sorely missed!! dedication Auntie Vic’s hard work paid off. Fare thee well Auntie Vic! Yaa Wo Jogbaan! On 1st January 1982, Auntie Vic was promoted to “B” Nyemi Kpakpa, Nyè Awo Jurō! Signatory status, a senior staff grade. Following her Kristo afata ohe! promotion Auntie Vic was transferred to Kaneshie .. Amen!! 26

TRIBUTE BY PCG, CALVARY CONGREGATION - HAATSO TO MRS. VICTORIA LEIGH Then I heard a voice from heaven say, “Write this: Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on. Yes, says the Spirit, they will rest from their labour, for their deeds will follow them” Revelations 14:13 Mrs. Victoria building of the new chapel. She was a communicant and honoured all her obligation in the church. Leigh was born to When the Presbyterian Church of Ghana asked all Presbyterian parents aged members above the age 65 years to stay home because of the Covid 19 Pandemic, she could no and was nurtured in longer attend church regularly due to some health issues. The Elders, however visit and administer the the Christian faith Holy sacrament to her at home every month. as a Presbyterian. Her sudden demise was a shock to the Church but with the sure hope of resurrection, we believe her She joined the room is ready and our saviour Jesus Christ has called her home. Our Saviour promise to us all that “In my PCG, Calvary father’s house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. Congregation And if I go and prepare a place for you I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I Haatso, when she am”. (John 14:2-3) moved to Haatso Rest peacefully in the Lord in 1997 with the Yaa wo jogbaa -Amen family. Mrs. Leigh joined the women’s Fellowship immediately she joined the church from PCG Ebenezer Congregation Osu. We all knew her to be very friendly but most of the time kept to herself. She was a woman of few words. Our sister contributed her quota as a member of the church especially in the area of fund raising towards the 27

Odase Ni P.C.G Kavari Yei Naanyo Bɔɔ Kuu Ni Yɔɔ Haatso Lɛ Yeɔ Yɛ Nyɛmiyoo Victoria Leigh He Nɛ Ke minaagbee ŋmlɛtswaa lɛ shɛ ni mayi gbɛ matee lɛ Nyɛ miyoo Victoria sumɔɔ Nyɔŋmɔ nitsumɔ jogbaŋŋ enɛ ha Oo Nuŋtsɔ Yesu jie mɔm gbɛ ni oye obua mi. No ni matuu awolɛ shika tolɔ (Treasurer) yɛ yei anaanyo bɔɔ kuu lɛ mli, ni misusuma mawo odɛŋ. Shi bo oosra, ni ookwɛ lɛ kɛ aatee estu nitsumɔ nɛɛ kɛ tsui krɔŋŋ ni etsu lɛ joghaŋŋ. PH.798(1) Beni egbe afii etɛ nitsumɔ lɛ naa, ni ebaaya shi enyɔ nɔ lɛ, ebi gbɛ ni etee eyasra ebii yɛ maŋ sɛɛ (London). Maa Vic sɛɛ Nyɛ miyoo Victoria Leigh kɛ ehe badamɔ P.C.G kuu kɛ baa lɛ, ekɛɛ dalɛ ebɔi lɛ ninamɔ hewɔlɛ oblayei ni eba Kalvari yei anaanyo bɔɔ kuu lɛ, be mli ni eshi Osu kpee lɛ mli lɛ abatsa nitsumɔ lɛ nɔ koni ewa amɛ. kɛba eshia yɛ Haatso nɛɛ aafee afii nyɔŋmai enyɔ kɛ kpaanyo kɛ sɛɛ mli nɛ (28 years) and above. No mli lɛ ejaa yɛ Ni lɛɛlɛŋ mɛi ni ba fɛɛ lɛ ewa amɛ kɛ tsu shika he nitsumɔ lɛ. PCG Osu Ebenezer asafo lɛ mli. Nakai mli wɔhiɛ aahu kɛyaashi afii fio mli nɛ lɛ gbɔmɔtso mli gbɔjɔmɔ hu ba ninalɛ, hewɔlɛ enyɛɛ kpee eba dɔŋŋ. Etsɛɛ tsɔ Maa Vic nakai wɔfɛɛ wɔtseɔ lɛ, ebaa kpee jogbaŋŋ ni ebaa ni nɛkɛ hela gbeyei gbeyei nɛɛ batowɔ gbɔ yɛ Ghana maŋ mra hu, ni estuɔ nɛɛ mli, ni nohewɔ lɛ enyɛɛ kpee eba dɔŋŋ ni etsɔ gbɔjɔlɔ, egbenaa nitsumɔ hewɔ lɛ Asafo haa lɛ Nuŋtsɔ niyenii yɛ shia, ni nakai nɔɔŋ yei pɛpɛɛpɛ akɛ kpeŋ akpe lɛ hu sra lɛ kpitio kpitio ni wɔkɛ lɛ sɔle, wɔgblaa Biblia nyo. Maa Vic lɛ mli ni wɔlaa kɛ shɛjeɔ emii ni wɔhaa lɛ koko, kɛ eshɛ afi hu he yɛ miishɛɛ ni wɔyeee wɔshii lɛ. Nakai nɔɔŋ kpee lɛ to gbejianɔ ni ebaa sra esumɔɔ mɔ fɛɛ lɛ, ni jufɔ gbiniji nyɔma kɛ ekpaa yɛ agbiɛnaa nyɔŋ lɛ nɔ yɛ mɔ. Maa Vic woɔ afi nɛɛ mli lɛ (16/05/2023) atswaa adafi akɛ wɔ nyɛmiyoo too ni awoɔ yɛ Vic etsɔ nuŋtsɔ lɛ nɔ. kpee mli, kɛjɛ local, district, Nyɛmiyoo Maa Vic ogbe onitsumɔ naa yɛ esha je nɛŋ, nohewɔlɛ yaawɔ jogbaŋŋ yɛ Nuŋtsɔ lɛ mli wɔsɛɛ lɛ wɔbaakpe presbytery kɛ tee National fɛɛ. Hefɛɛhe ni kpee lɛ yaa hu, ekooŋ yɛ ŋwɛi Asa wulu lɛ nɔ. nyɛmi yoo Vic yaa eko, kɛ onaa nyɛmiyoo Vic yɛ kpee lɛ be Maa Vic yei anaanyobɔɔ kuu lɛ kɛɛ okɛ lala nɛɛ awɔ. lɛ sane ko eba shia ni etee, Maa Vic hey ɛ miishɛɛ naakpa, Tsu nii shi je miina kɛ Maa Vic ŋba kpee kɛ sɔlemɔ ni eyi shi yɛ etsɔne lɛ mli lɛ, Tsu kɛjɛ leebi fɛɛ eyɛ obla nyiɛmɔ ko ni enyieɔ bɛɛ eeŋmɔ hrɛbii kɛ miishɛɛ. Tsu nii beni bɔ mii nyɔ kɛŋshwie fɔfɔi anɔ Tsu nii beni hulu tsoɔ, ni jeɔɛŋ fɛɛ etse Nyɛmiyoo Vic sumɔɔ mɔfɛɛmɔ ni enine shi hu jɔ, bɛja okɛ Tsu nii shi je mii na, ni otsuŋ nii dɔŋŋ. okɛ sane ko eyaninaalɛ ebaawo bo ŋaa, aloo kɛji oyɛ naagba Nuŋtsɔ lɛ kɛ bo aya shɛ shia shweshweeshwe. ko ni okɛ yafɔ ehiɛ nɔɔŋ ebaa ha bo hetoo nɔɔŋ kɛkɛ lɛ Amen. miishɛɛ eba shia. 28

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Appreciation The Bampoe and allied families express our heartfelt gratitude and appreciation for the support, prayers, presence, donations and the other various forms of sympathy shown us. These act’s of love has been of great comfort to the family. May the Almighty God richly bless and replenish you abundantly. 41

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