Victoria Agbenyenu Funeral Brochure

Order of Service OFFICIATING MINISTERS PART 2: BURIAL SERVICE 1. Rev. Dr. Stephen Wengam - Gen. Supt. AG Ghana. 2 Praises & Worship 2. Rev. Dr. Tito Adjei - Asst. Gen. Supt. AG Ghana. 3. Welcome & Introduction 3. Rev. Dr. Ernest Birinkorang - Gen. Sec. AG Ghana. 4. Hymn 3 - Captain of Israel’s Host 4. Rev. Dr. Simon Abu Baba - Gen. Trea. AG Ghana. 5.Biography & Tributes 5. Rev. Michael Ayesu - Reg. Supt. GT. Acc West. 6. Hymn - 2 When we all get to Heaven 6. Rev. Humphrey Hagan - Reg. Sec. GT. Acc. West. 7. Scripture Reading - 1st Thessalonians 4:12-18 7. Rev. Charles Koomson - Reg. Trea. GT. Acc. West. 8. Song - Church Choir 8. Rev. Bernard Asare - Regional Welfare Chairman. 9. Sermon - Rev. Dr. Stephen Wengam-Gen. Supt. AG. Ghana 9. Rev. Eugene Anim - District Pastor, Newtown, Dzorwulu 10. Prayer for Family 11. Love Offering PART I: PRE BURIAL SERVICE 12. Announcement 13. Recessional Hymn 1 - It is well with my soul 1. Scripture Sentence 2. Purpose of Gathering PART 3: GRAVE SIDE 3. Hymn 4- God be with you till we meet again 4. Prayer 1. Prayer 5. File Past 2. Committal 6. Covering the casket and prayer 3. Hymn - Abide with me 4. Vote of Thanks 5. Benediction 1

Eulogy Let Me Go When I come to the end of the road And the sun has set for me I want no rites in a gloom filled room Why cry for a soul set free? Miss me, but not for long And not with your head bowed low Remember the love that once we shared Miss me but let me go. For this is a journey we all must take and each must go alone It's all part of the master plan A step on the road to home. When you are lonely and sick at heart Go to the friends, we know. Laugh at all the things we used to do Miss me but let me go. When I am dead and gone My dearest, Sing no sad songs for me Plant thou no roses at my head Nor shady cypress tree Be the green grass above me With showers and dewdrops wet And if thou wilt remember and if thou wilt, forget. I shall not see the shadows; I shall not fear the rain; I shall not hear the nightingale sing on as if in pain; And dreaming through the twilight That doth not rise nor set, Happily, I may remember, and happily may forget. 2

Biography of the Late Mrs. Victoria Agbenyenu “ I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the nurtured young minds for fifteen years before eventually closing it faith: Now there is in store for me a crown of righteousness, which the down. Alongside her commitment to education, Victoria explored Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me at that day: and not only to various business ventures, including petty trading, corn mill operation, fishing boat operation, transport, and house rental. me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing” (2 Tim 4:7-8). FAMILY M rs Victoria Dovi Agbenyenu, fondly known as \"Momito-1,\" In 1984, Victoria got married to Reverend Emmanuel Agbenyenu at was a remarkable woman known for her kindness, love, the Ebenezer A/G Church in Kotobabi, Accra. Their union was blessed and care. She was born to Mr. George Ocloo and Madam with three children, six grandchildren, and an adopted child, making Veronica Ocloo both of blessed memory on 6th February 1953 at Keta their home a place of love and warmth. in the Volta Region of Ghana. She was the 8th out of 9 children born to the couple. She started her basic education at Anlo State School MINISTRY and completed her Middle School with distinction in 1967. That same Victoria's involvement in ministry was extensive, demonstrating her year, she gained admission to Keta Secondary School and completed deep faith and desire to serve others. At the Ebenezer Assemblies of it in 1972 with an O-Level certificate. She joined her elder brothers in God Church, she served as a Sunday School teacher, Youth Treasur- Accra as she had a strong desire and determination to pursue her er, Praise & Worship leader, and Ewe interpreter. Her dedication led career there. her to start the Ewe Sunday School class at the church, as well as initiate the Joy Fellowship. In 1993, when her husband Reverend WORK Agbenyenu was posted to Kanda to lead the Christian Fellowship She embarked on a fulfilling career at Barclays Bank on 3rd July 1973, Centre A/G, Victoria joined him and immediately started the Ewe dedicating 25 years of her life to the institution. However, she decided to retire voluntarily in October 1998 due to ill health. Victoria's passion for education led her to establish a school at her home, where she 3

Cont. Biography of the Late Mrs. Victoria Agbenyenu Sunday School there. She also played a crucial role in establishing the kindness and care for others were unmatched, leaving a lasting impact Women's Ministry and the Missionette Group in the church. Her on those she encountered. Her magnetic personality, fun-loving leadership skills extended to being the head of the Marriage Counsel- nature, and great sense of humor will forever be remembered. ors' team and organizing women's prayer groups and house-to-house evangelism activities. Additionally, Victoria had a passion for writing OTHERS and acting in short skits and singing hymns, showcasing her creative Victoria passed away at the 37 Military Hospital on 31st May 2023 talents within the church community. after a short illness. She was 70. She left behind her beloved husband, four children, and six grandchildren. PHILANTHROPY WORKS “It is not what we get, but what we give that brings meaning to our lives and attracts God’s blessing and longevity.” - Momito 1 “Momito-1” loved to help people in diverse ways. She helped count- less people and participated in volunteering activities that transformed her community in the areas of water, road, and drainage. She facilitated the creation of new churches, some of which started on her compound and supported numerous men of God with finances, accommodation, groceries and the like. Her home, lovingly referred to as the Mission House, served as a welcoming space for all who sought comfort and assistance. Victoria's 4

Tribute by Husband You stood firmly by me against any protest during the years of our REV. EMMANUEL AGBENYENU ministry. You were my prayer partner who believed in me and travailed TO MY LOVELY WIFE with me to succeed in the ministry and in life. You were always on your knees interceding for the church and the family for things to go well. “Then I heard a voice say, ‘Blessed are those who die in the Lord from You were a good and effective marriage counselor, and many benefit- now on. Yes, says the spirit. They will rest from their labour, for their ed from your wise counsel. You opened our home to everyone, and your hospitality made everyone feel important. deeds will follow them.’ (Revelations 14:13) My love, My Dovi, your faithfulness, efficiency, loyalty, truthfulness, D ovi, the love of my life, and I got married customarily on 15th and hard work inspired me in many ways. To me, you were simply February 1984. We tied the knot on 16th June that same amazing – beautiful, humorous, highly intelligent, firm and always fun year. Our marriage was blessed with three children and one to be with. I am grateful for every minute we had together. adopted child: Benjamin, Joshua, Caleb, and Lydia. We would have You did not allow your health challenges to define you. Many times, celebrated our fortieth anniversary in 2024, but the Lord decided He you rose above each challenge, and survived. needed her more. My Dovi was an honest and God-fearing person. She showed me We are lucky to have been blessed with children who played a major such pure love that I had never enjoyed anywhere else in my life. Dovi role in your caregiving through their constant prayers and support. At was a kind and generous soul and a caring mother who always antici- home and in the hospital, they were present, and they tried their best pated everyone else’s needs and acted even before they asked. She was deeply committed to the family, church, and work. She always stood firm in the truth. She trained our children and grandchildren in the way of the Lord. She cared for and supported the family in diverse ways. How lucky I am to have encountered Dovi ! Oh Dovi why have you left me so suddenly when I need you most. I always tried to make you happy. This was the biggest task I took to heart and did it joyously. 5

Cont.Tribute by Husband REV. EMMANUEL AGBENYENU TO MY LOVELY WIFE to make you comfortable. The obstacles were many, but God’s grace warmth of your love. You were my home, and now, I have never felt and strength helped us support you in every way possible. emptier. Deep sorrow and tears fill my heart these days. Who will God and our children were my anchors when things became more stand behind me? Who will bear me up in prayer? Who will be my difficult. I had hoped that you would be discharged, but things turned companion? Who will encourage and counsel me? Who will tease out differently. Even when you slipped into a coma, we prayed and me? To whom will I share my secrets? Dovi, I miss you! How I wished asked God to bring you out safely. When you woke up from the coma, you had stayed with me a little longer here on this earth, but God’s you asked me if I had seen the white man who was in the house. It was ways are not our ways neither are His thoughts our thoughts. later that I realized you had had an encounter with an angel of God Though saddened by your home call, I am consoled by the fact that and that you were experiencing the pangs of being called Home. On you are resting peacefully in the bosom of your maker. You have your sick bed, you told people around to sing praises to God for you. fought the good fight; you have finished the race. You have kept the Not long after, you departed from this earth. faith. You have escaped the corruption of this world and you are now in a place where there is no pain, sorrow, sickness, or death. Now On the day of your departure, joy filled my heart strongly around 9:00 there is in store for you the crown of righteousness which the Lord will am. I began singing praises to the Lord. I did not understand why I was give to you. brimming with such joy, but I embraced it. Three days later, I had a dream, and, in the dream, we were together when a parcel was given Dovi, Me lↄ wo! to you. The parcel contained a ticket for you to travel abroad. When I Dovi, hede nynie, Dzudzɔ leŋutifafa me. woke up, I understood that you had been called to Glory. You had taken the lead to Heaven. One day I will meet you in heaven where there would be no parting. My Dovi, you have departed from this life to your eternal home. I feel incredibly lonely. I miss your laughter and your voice. I miss the 6

7

Tribute by BROTHERS AND SISTERS W When one person is missing, the whole world seems empty. For many years, we shared our lives under one roof. We laughed, sometimes we fought and we cried. The younger years faded fast and even though we have gone our separate ways, the love, the friendship and the bonding still remain. Death may have taken you away from us but it could never take your memories. You will always be in our hearts Auntie Dovi. We will miss you dearly. Rest in perfect peace, our dear sister. 8

Tribute by you. All we have of you is the memories that will last a life time. Through CHILDREN the years, you tirelessly stood by our side, a pillar of strength. In times of triumph, you smiled and rejoiced with us irrespective of the size of our “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. My Father’s success and in tough times you encouraged and lifted our spirits. house has many rooms; if that were not so, would Ihave told you that I am going there Your unwavering dedication to both family and friend was exemplary to prepare a place for you?And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and and this was served on a platter of self-sacrifice for the happiness and well-being of all who were close and far. take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. (John 14:1-3) We say thank you, our dear mother for the countless tasty meals you lovingly prepared for us. Though you biologically gave birth to 3 boys, I n the depths of our hearts, you will always reside forever. you made every moment with you in the kitchen a thorough “lecture”; Our heart is broken because we’ve lost a great mom, our schooling us through the art of cooking and this has helped us later in friend, our ally, our business partner and our confidant. life. Though death is inevitable, we never thought this separation would You did not just instruct us on what to do, but took the time to teach and come this early but we take solace in the fact that you are in a better sculpted us to drink from your deep reservoir of wisdom and experi- place. ence. We can’t forget your immense contribution to our education, Indeed, you were a shining star and we are happy God blessed you marriage and career lives. with 70 plus years on earth which you lived well. We remember the joy Life has not been all smooth but whenever it got tough, you held up a and the excitement on 6th February 2023 when you finally crossed the lantern that we may see our ways forward and encouraged us on, as a platinum jubilee mark of 70. To us it’s not how long you lived but how loving mother. well you impacted lives. Your love knew no boundaries, even on the hospital bed, you still blessed the people around though you had your We recall numerous times that we have called and at the end of every pains to deal with. conversation, you blessed us, our family and assured us of your contin- How we wished you could be around even for a while. ual prayer support. Your sleepless nights of travailing on our behalf Our heroine, our mom, who God blessed with a golden heart of love and industrious hands that made a lot of difference in our lives. We pushed, we prayed and did everything within our power to sustain you but the calling of the Lord was much stronger. We will surely miss 9

Cont.Tribute by Benjami Boaky J hu Agbenyen CHILDREN Ka Agbenyen Mr . Lydi Agb paved numerous miraculous ways for us and this legacy will forever remain in our hearts. 10 You cherished each one of us and extended the same love and respect to our spouses. There were times you engaged them in lengthy conver- sation just because of the trust and comfort they felt around you. You were the vibrant thread that wove the family together. Today, we gather to pay tribute to you our extraordinary mother, who embodied the essence of a family person. Mom, you were a true visionary; going after projects even in old age which we sometimes disagreed due to your health. As a forerunner, you were not afraid to try something new and you would always say “Nu wɔɣi wo wɔnu” – which means THE TIME TO ACT IS NOW! Your legacy as a mother went far beyond us, reaching into the lives of others who have been touched by your compassion and warmth. Mom, you are gone and your soul has been taken to a better place. However, the spirit by which you lived and instructed us continues to live in our hearts and heart of the people you touched. We console ourselves that the Lord has hidden you in his bosom of comfort, where there is only love, peace and joy. A place where you will no longer experience pain or sorrow. REST WELL MAAMA !

Tribute by IN-LAWS But Ruth replied, “Don’t urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. spiritual bulldozer and always encouraged us to be steadfast in Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will prayers so we have happy homes and Godly children. She taught us how to discipline our children in love. be my people and your God my God. Ruth 1:16 Maama, you were our symphony, by your side, we were united. Your O ur pain! A day, time and moment our heart couldn’t home was open to everyone including our siblings and your hospitality accept. made them feel welcomed. You were a beacon of wisdom to us. You Mama, Momito, Grandma it is very difficult for us to were our “doctor” who was concerned about our wellbeing and always believe you are gone. Aah death why did you take our mother, friend, had some new medication to talk to us about. You were our wise coun- sister, counselor, protector, advisor, prayer warrior and our all in all selor and idea center and would share life experiences with us and from us? encourage us in difficult moments. You shared in our joy, our worries Mama as we affectionately called her was more than a mother -in law were your worries and our pain your pain. To us you were our mother to us. She opened her home to us from the very beginning and totally and not just an in-law. accepted us, making us feel right at home and welcomed. She held a special bond with each one of us and had special pet names for us; We are eternally grateful for all the memories you have left us. From “Akuapim Poloo”,” My daughter”,” Teiko”,” Jo”,” one love”. She always your comforting hugs to your infectious laughter, to your love and had solutions to difficult issues amidst laughs and jokes. She tried to affection for your grandchildren, indeed we will cherish every moment teach us the Ewe language and some Ewe delicacies while sharing childhood fond memories of our spouses. She was a godly woman who placed the Lord first in all she did and upheld her children and grandchildren in prayer daily. She was our 11

Cont.Tribute by Mr . Jennifer Boaky J phin Amiiba IN-LAWS Felicit Gya Mr. Agb we spent with you. You were a precious gift from God to us and impacted our lives and all the lives that came in contact with you positively. We wish you had stayed with us longer to continue the beautiful bond we shared with you. Your legacy will live on through the values you instilled in us and we will do our best to honor your memory by continuing to live by those values. Maama, your love and acceptance gave us the courage to pursue our dreams and aspirations and for that we will always be thankful. Mama, part of our family is broken and we will miss you so much. Momito, death has taken you from us but never conquered you. Though we are mourning your death, we are comforted knowing that you are now in a better place free from pain and suffering. Rest in peace maama, we will continue to cherish the memories we shared. You will always hold a special place in our hearts with love and gratitude. 12

Tribute by GRANDCHILDREN To our beloved Grandma- You will always be loved G randma, mummy and daddy told us you have gone to achievements. heaven, and we cannot believe we will never see you Grandma had high hopes for us, always asking how school was. And again. Grandma as we affectionately called you and if we were topping our classes. It breaks our heart to know she will not be able to see us surpass her expectations but we know she will be “Nanavinye” as our younger siblings called you became watching from heaven. Grandma, you promised to be at our graduations, even university. your name on our lips. From our inception, you were with us even till Grandma, we will miss you dearly because there is so much to share and do with you. the very end. Indeed, you have left a big vacuum that cannot be filled. We will try not to be sad because we know you are resting in heaven. Grandma loved us so much and played a big part in our lives. You No matter how long, as the year rolls by and as time passes, the memory of you in our heart will never subside. Grandma, “Nanavinye”, served as our comforter, provider, friend, cook, playmate, advisor, now that you are our angel, look down on us with your beautiful smiles and continue to pray for motivator and disciplinarian. You were the strongest and the liveliest us. We promise we will make you proud.We will person we know. You showered us with love, gifts and ensured we never forget you and will keep loving you forever, never lacked the good things in life but did not also hesitate to correct till we meet again in heaven. us when we went wrong. Grandma, we remember the times we sat in your kitchen tasting dishes you prepared with special love and the holidays we spent together. You told us childhood stories about our daddies and showed us their baby pictures which made us laugh so much. We miss playing on your bed and running to you for comfort when daddy and mummy scolded us. In our young lives you taught us to pray, learn and memorize bible verses, taught us Sunday school songs and Christmas carols. You taught us to love each other, be kind to one another. You were our best friend and cheerleader, encouraged us to learn hard in school and always proud of our little milestones and academic 13

Tribute by In our hearts, you shall always be. March on gallantly Aunty, your maker awaits you at the gate of heaven. NIECES & NEPHEWS …….Hede nyuie. verses, taught us Sunday school songs and Christmas carols. You For If we believe that Jesus died and rose again even so God will taught us to love each other, be kind to one another. bring with him those who asleep in Jesus. (1 Thessalonians 4:14) W e shed tears because you are no more, our hearts bleed because you are no more. We wish we could wake up and this nightmare would have been just a mere dream but who are we to question God? Aunty Dovi, your passing has left a big void in our lives but our minds and hearts are filled with good memories of you. You always put up a strong face and a sweet smile so your passing came as a big surprise to all of us. You are such a generous, loving and caring Aunty so today we choose to Remember you like this. As a mother for all, we say thank you for being there. As a good listener to our problems and the good advice that followed, we say akpe. For all the smiles you brought to us during naming ceremonies, we say thank you. And for the hip, hip, hip hurray, at marriage ceremonies, we say thank you. Your benevolent smiles lifted our hearts anytime you were near. Your warm welcoming embrace we shall miss. 14

Tribute by BY ASSEMBLIES OF GOD, GHANA GREATER ACCRA WEST REGION TO MRS. VICTORIA DOVI AGBENYENU “To everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under You will be remembered for many things, but Greater Accra West the heavens: a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a Region remembers you for your evangelistic zeal, love for God and His church. Your hard work and benevolent heart will continue to time to pull up what is planted” (Ecl. 3:1,2). speak for you. Rest in peace Mrs. Victoria Dovi Agbenyenu, God keeps your soul till we meet again. L ife is a precious gift God sends into this realm of mortality. Hence it must definitely return to where it came from. Yet it is without pain, especially when you lose a spouse. Mrs. Victoria Agbenyenu was actively involved in ministry. As a member in Ebenezer A/G, Vic served in the Sunday school depart- ment as a teacher par excellence who saw to the commencement of the Ewe class and was the pioneer teacher. Another initiative of her saw the birth of JOY fellowship in Ebenezer A/G. Again she was a Youth treasurer, and praise and worship leader. When the husband, Rev. Agbenyenu, was posted to Christian Fellow- ship Centre, Kanda, Vic saw it as an opportunity to continue rendering her godly service to the husband and the church. At Christian Fellow- ship Centre, she started the Ewe Sunday school; saw to the establish- ment of Women Ministry and Missionette. Her dedication paved way for her to be part of the counseling team in the church. 15

Tribute by KANDA ASSEMBLIES OF GOD CHURCH “For we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were She was very instrumental in the formation of the Joy Fellowship of dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, Kanda Assembly of God Church. As a retired astute banker, she was eternal in the heavens. For in this we groan, earnestly desiring to be able to mobilize the young married ladies in the church together which clothed upon with our house which is from heaven.”2 Corinthians 5:1-2 today has culminated in the local assembly having the Joy Fellowship Wing of the Women Fellowship. She also made her experience M rs. Victoria Dovi Agbenyenu, affectionately called Mumito available to the Women’s Ministry and had regular meetings with whose mortal remains lie before us today was the immedi- them, teaching them on how to manage their homes. ate past first lady of Kanda Assembly of God Church who by the grace of God, supported her beloved husband Rev. Emmanuel Mrs. Agbenyenu sacrificed her time and resources in the promotion of Agbenyenu to successfully pastor for thirty Years. the Kingdom of God. The church was made up of students at various Mrs. Agbenyenu played a pivotal role in the activities of the church levels of their study reflecting the financial state of the church when when they were transferred from Ebenezer Assemblies of God Church mommy and her husband were transferred there. to Kanda A/G. Her personal value to stand firm for what is right predisposed her to Momito, as we affectionately called her, together with her husband sometimes confront people who were distracted during church supported the church financially; purchased some equipment and service. At the end of day, her engages were always underlined with other items to help in the growth of the church and enjoyment of the love. service.Momito made her godly counsel and experience in marriage Her motherhood was not limited to only her biological children but to available. She was the coordinator of the counseling committee of the all members especially the youth some of whom have become mighty men of God and occasionally visited her home and sometime dined with her. 16

Cont.Tribute by KANDA ASSEMBLIES OF GOD CHURCH church and had time to counsel couples who were getting ready for Thank you for giving your time and resources so sacrificially in the marriage. She did this ardently in her quest to see young people promotion of the Kingdom of God.Thank you for your genuineness. succeed in their marriage life. The humor she attached to some of the Your demise has created a vacuum in our heart and even as we loved topics made it fun to always be there. you, God loved you more and He has done what is pleasing to him. Her kind heartedness made it easy for her to express openly her love We are comforted by the scriptures, in I Thessalonians 4:13-14 which for all who came into contact with her. She was the type who says.But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning expressed her mind freely on issues that bothered her and husband. them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have She most often acted as a voice for her husband. no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him. It was shocking to hear of your passing on 31st May 2023 after a brief We know that you are sleeping in the Lord and we will meet again. sickness. It was not something we were expecting to hear as a Church considering the fact that your retirement service was held on 23rd we say rest in perfect peace in the Lord May,2023 at this same place. It was our hope that the love that bonded until we meet again. the two of you will still be enjoyed by you now that you have retired from active service in the Lord but that wasn’t the case, as in the saying, man proposes, God disposes. Your kindness and love touched a lot of hearts and knew no bounds. Your kind, sweet spirit touched those both far and near. 17

Tribute by KETASCO “72” CLASS MATES G od saw that she was getting tired; a cure was not to be; so, remained a day-student who walked the distance from home with He put His arms around her and whispered “Come with others in and out to school daily for all the five years of our life in me!!” secondary school. So, a golden heart stopped beating; Hardworking hands put to A striking feature of our girls, including Dovi, was how immaculate they rest……Only remembered by what she has done………God broke our presented themselves. We still wonder how they managed their time hearts to prove to us that He only takes the best. to ensure such perfect daily appearance. They also had the gut to rub As a last honour to our departed sister, Mrs Victoria Dovi Agbenyenu shoulders with the boys in all disciplines of school life. As it was then, (nee Ocloo), I humbly request that all past students of Ketasco to join the school provided equal opportunities for the boys and girls to learn; us, the classmates to sing the Ketasco School-Anthem: debate, argue, partake in extra curricula activities like sports, games, “Once to every man and nation comes the moment to decide” …. a participate in social and academic groups as well as in singing and powerful life inspiring hymn composed by Russell Lowell in 1845, and dancing. No doubt many people who would have interacted with Dovi adopted by Ketasco as its school anthem. in her adult life cannot miss the traits of these early experiences in her display of knowledge, confidence and useful skills in multiple The demise of Vic Dovi has struck yet another heartbreak for the ‘72 disciplines even in the company of male counterparts but notwith- boys-and-girls’. In fact, it was a double agony coinciding, on the same standing being very respectful and humble. day with that of one of the boys as well. Dovi was one of the 1967 batch of intakes to Keta Secondary School We would miss Vicky for her show of motherly care, concern for each which joined the continuing students on the 15th September 1967. of the boys and girls especially if anyone gets entangled in any She was placed in stream 1A and like majority of the students then, unfavourable situation, like ill-health or bereavement. It was normal 18

Cont.Tribute by KETASCO “72” CLASS MATES and usual for Vic to be online in conversation with any of the boys or girls for several minutes finding out the wellbeing; and discussing and offering possible remedies or strategies to help mend the unfavour- able state. Vicky knew the specialty of each of the mates, and so, she would consult them, even in delicate matters personal to her and her family. For the past few years, we are all aware that she had challenges with her health affecting especially her movement. But her mental agility remained, as ever sharp. She herself would say that …. “ ….. as for my mouth, it is intact” Any time we met as a group, once she got seated, she would participate in all discussions and her humour can never be missed. Vicky, the boys as well as the girls will surely miss your company, jokes and recall of our childhood pranks. 19

Tribute by BBG/ABSA RETIRED STAFF ASSOCIATION For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angles, nor principal- year. ities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, Daavi Dovi was someone who always reported very early to work and didn't like idling . nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the Daavi Dovi was always looking for ways to help others . love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord – Romans 8:38-39. She always finished her work ahead of time and gave a helping hand at the Accra High Street Clearing Department where there was always T he “ooh” and “aah” exclamations that greeted the announce- lots of work to be completed before closing time. ment of the passing of our Sister, friend and colleague on Daavi Dovi worked for several years at the Savings Dept and knew our Whatsapp Platform was enough testimony of this Asso- most of the customers by name. She always wore a smile as she ciation. attended to customers much to the admiration of all. Mrs. Victoria Dovi Agbenyenu or Daavi Dovi as she was affectionately Daavi Dovi handled her duties at the Savings Department so well that called by colleagues and peers joined the then Barclays Bank of when the Savings accounts were transferred in bulk to Makola Accra Ghana Ltd now Absa Bank on the 3rd July, 1973 at the age of 20 years branch and some staff was needed to go and handle the accounts and was posted to our High Street Branch in Accra where she started there, Daavi Dovi was the obvious choice. her Banking career. She served the mandatory probationary period of She continued handling the Savings customers very well winning 6 months during which time she was taken through the rudiments of commendation from all. the profession at the branch as well as the Bank's Training School in Due to her hard work and diligent performance, she was elevated to Accra. supervisory role. She diligently worked in almost all the departments reserved for begin- ners.She was transferred to our Head Office (Accra Foreign Exchange , AFEX ) Dept. between 1981 to 1983 . She was transferred back to High Street Accra Branch for another one 20

Cont.Tribute by BBG/ABSA RETIRED STAFF ASSOCIATION She was promoted to “B” Signatory status, a senior staff grade and transferred to Accra Circle Branch where she worked as a supervisor from 1985 – 1998. Daavi Dovi had the opportunity and worked in some other branches of the bank beside the Accra High Street branch and the Head Office AFEX branch. She worked at the Tema Fishing Harbour and Tema Main Branches. Daavi Dovi finally retired honorably on the 8th October 1998. Daavi Dovi was very humble and made friends easily with both her peers, seniors and juniors. She was a very friendly personality who was interested in fostering cordial relationship anywhere she found herself. Daavi Dovi was very easily approachable. She took interest in colleagues' challenges that came to her attention and volunteered her wise counsel towards desired resolution. Daavi Dovi was an active member of our Association. She met all her financial obligations without fail. She will be fondly remembered by all who came into contact with her. Daavi Dovi rest well in the bossom of the Lord. Daavi Dovi you will be sorely missed. Fare thee well Daavi Dovi. Hèdè Nyuiè ! Daavi Dovi Babaaa nawo. Dzudzor, dzudzor le nutifafame. Amen 21

Tribute by WESTLANDS ASSOCIATION “Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints (Psalms and drinks. She was so excited seeing her effort yielding result. 116:15). Mrs Agbenyenu was passionate about education and personal devel- opment. And to ensure that these were achieved, she temporarily run M rs. Victoria Dovi Agbenyenu and her family relocated to a basic school, WESTLANDS SHINING STAR ACADEMY and impact- Westlands in 1996. She was one of the early residents of ed the community children with her Christian and professional values. the West Legon community. The Community was not Today many of these children have become well-groomed adults and developed as it is now. It very bushy with no social amenities. She attained highest academic levels. became one of the pioneers of the West Legon Residents Association. Our mother, also offered good counselling, prayers to community Mrs. Agbenyenu was a great mother and a leader. members and all who came her way. As a wife of a Rev Minister, she She was kind hearted and development oriented. She supported always showed compassion to all those who were afflicted. May your greatly in the development of the Westland area, playing major roles good deeds follow you in the Lord. during the demarcation of the community into the eight zones. She We would have loved you to stay longer but, God knows and loves and her husband became leaders for Zone 4. you more. She made the development of Zone 4 a personal project. Mrs Mrs Agbenyenu, we will forever cherish your memories. Agbenyenu, together with few settlers of the Zone, ensured that basic Members of the Westland community bid you farewell. social amenities such as water, electricity and other infrastructure Rest well in the bosom of your maker. were provided within the Zones. She wrote letters and contacted Dzudzor le ntifafa me. authorities, all for the developmental purposes. Onyankopon mfa wo nsie. We quite remember, on the day that electricity poles were mounted, Yaa wo odjogbaa. she invited the workers to your house and fed them with her own food Amen 22

Tribute by TENANTS OF MRS. VICTORIA AGBENYENU O ur dearest landlady, aka Momito, was a rare gem, and we leave the conversation with a reassuring word from God. count ourselves lucky to have met and known her. Each tenant’s first encounter with her was memorable. Momito was a Momito was peace personified. This was one of the best things that mother who genuinely cared and ensured we were comfortable and came with being her tenant. We all hoped she would live longer, but lacked nothing as tenants. She treated us like family. Our safety was we know she is resting in the bosom of the Almighty God. Her paramount to her, and once she felt this was being compromised, she presence touched each of us, and we are grateful for the moments we would quickly find ways to rectify it. She was an extremely organized got to share with her. person and was firm in her stance that we always keep our surround- Rest on, Mummy, knowing that your memory will forever be treasured ings clean. in our hearts. Momito had a pleasant countenance. She exuded warmth and treated us with love and respect. She was quick to check in on us and help us if we needed any assistance. Her unwavering faith and love for God were obvious, and she wove this in her conversations. Her wise coun- sel was also one thing we can never forget. You would greet her and 23

Photo Gallery 24

25

HYMN 1- IT IS WELL WITH MY SOUL 3 .My sin, O the bliss of this glorious thought (the thought) 1.When peace like a river a�endeth my My sin, not in part, but the whole (every way bit, every bit, all of it) When sorrows like sea billows roll Is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no Whatever my lot, Thou has taught me to more (yes) say Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my It is well, it is well with my soul soul It is well (it is well) with my soul (with my It is well (it is well) with my soul (with my soul) soul) It is well, it is well with my soul It is well, it is well with my soul 2.Though Satan should buffet, though 4.And Lord, haste the day when my faith trials should come shall be sight Let this blest assurance control The clouds be rolled back as a scroll That Christ (yes, He has) has regarded The trump shall resound, and the Lord my helpless estate shall descend And has shed His own blood for my Even so, it is well with my soul It is well (it is well) with my soul (with my It is well (it is well) with my soul (with my soul) soul) It is well, it is well with my soul soul It is well, it is well with my soul soul 26

HYMN 2- WHEN WE ALL GET TO HEAVEN 1.Sing the wondrous love of Jesus, 4.Onward to the prize before us! Sing His mercy and His grace; Soon His beauty we'll behold; In the mansions bright and blessed Soon the pearly gates will open; He'll prepare for us a place. We shall tread the streets of gold. It is well, it is well with my soul When we all get to Heaven, When we all get to Heaven, What a day of rejoicing that will be! What a day of rejoicing that will be! When we all see Jesus, When we all see Jesus, We'll sing and shout the victory! We'll sing and shout the victory! 2.While we walk the pilgrim pathway, When we all see Jesus, Clouds will overspread the sky; We'll sing and shout the victory! But when trav'ling days are over, Not a shadow, not a sigh. 3.Let us then be true and faithful, Trus�ng, serving every day; Just one glimpse of Him in glory Will the toils of life repay. When we all get to Heaven, What a day of rejoicing that will be! When we all see Jesus, We'll sing and shout the victory! 27

HYMN 3- CAPTAIN OF ISRAEL’S HOST 1.Captain Of Israel’s Host, And Guide 3.We’ve No Abiding City Here, Of All Who Seek The Land Above, But Seek A City Out Of Sight; Beneath Thy Shadow We Abide, Thither Our Steady Course We Steer, The Cloud Of Thy Protec�ng Love; Aspiring To The Plains Of Light; Our Strength, Thy Grace, Our Rule, Thy Jerusalem The Saints’ Abode, Word; Whose Founder Is The Living God. Our End, The Glory Of The Lord. 2.By Thine Unerring Spirit Led, We Shall Not In The Desert Stray We Shall Not Full Direc�on Need Nor Miss Our Providen�al Way; As Far From Danger As From Fear, While Love, Almighty Love, Is Near. 28

HYMN 4 - GOD BE WITH YOU TILL WE MEET AGAIN 1. God be with you �ll we meet again; 3. God be with you �ll we meet again; By his counsels guide, uphold you; Keep love’s banner floa�ng o’er you; With his sheep securely fold you. Smite death’s threat’ning wave before God be with you �ll we meet again. you. God be with you �ll we meet again. 2. God be with you �ll we meet again; When life’s perils thick confound you, [Chorus] Put his arms unfailing round you. Till we meet, till we meet, God be with you �ll we meet again. Till we meet at Jesus’ feet, Till we meet, till we meet, [Chorus] God be with you till we meet again. Till we meet, till we meet, Till we meet at Jesus’ feet, Till we meet, till we meet, God be with you till we meet again. 29

HYMN 5 - ABIDE WITH ME Abide with me, fast falls the even�de The darkness deepens Lord, with me abide When other helpers fail and comforts flee Help of the helpless, oh, abide with me Swi� to its close ebbs out life’s li�le day Earth’s joy grow dim, its glories pass away Change and decay in all round I see