Brochure of the late Mrs. Georgina Zonyira-Bakah

CELEBRATING THE LIFE OF Mrs. Georgina Zonyira-Bakah ON SATURDAY AUGUST 19, 2023 VENUE: EPCG, TRINITY PARISH TIME: 7AM - 11AM 1950 - 2023

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OFFICIATING CLERGY Rev. Vincent K. Dagadu - EPCG, Madina Parish Pastor Cat. Alfred K. Kenny-Kumah Rev. R.N. Meteku- District Pastor, Anloga Cat. S.K. Fometu, EPCG, Anloga. ORDER OF SERVICE 1. Call to Worship 2. Opening Hymn EPH 255 : 1 – 3 3. Prayer and Creed 4. Brief Word of Welcome The Parish Pastor 5. Selections Church Choir and Groups present 6. Biography A family Member 7. Tributes Husband, Children, Group and Church 8. Songs of Praise and Thanksgiving offering Praise Team / Church Band 9. Hymn EPH 585 : 1 – 3 10. Scripture Reading Ewe/ English 11. Sermon 12. Offering Church Band 13. Dedication of Offering 14. Presentation of Wreath 15. Vote of Thanks A Family Member 16. Announcements and Recognition Catechist / Family Member 17. Hymn EPH 654 : 1 – 5 18. Final Commendation 19. Closing Prayer / The Lord’s Prayer / Doxology 20. Benediction 21. Closing Hymn EPH 652 : 1 – 2 PART TWO: AT THE GRAVE YARD 1. Invocation 2. Hymn EPH 288:1 – 2 3. Committal 4. Prayer and Benediction 5. Closing Hymn EPH 591: 1 – 2 3

BIOGRAPHY OF MRS GEORGINA ZONYIRA-BAKAH “Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord, from henceforth blessed indeed, says the Spirit that they may rest from their labour and their deeds follow them”. Revelations 14:13 Birth & Parentage On the 20th of January, 1950, Mr. Dah Kwaku Zonyira and Madam Florence Adzo Azagbe (both deceased) welcomed their first daughter, Georgina Afi Zonyira. She was not only the first child of her parents but also the first grandchild of her maternal grandmother, Madam Nyekor Amegbletor, who carried a torch for her. As a result of this, she lived with her grandmother at age four, at Dodi Papase, Mid Volta, and after a year they returned to Anloga. Education Georgina’s educational life started in 1955, at the E.P. Mission Kindergarten, where she started her formal basic education and completed in 1966. Whilst there, she was baptized as a Presbyterian, and had her confirmation in 1965. She was very intelligent, observant, smart, organized and creative. By dint of hardwork, Gina excelled tremendously in her promotion exam and was due to be promoted to 4

Form 2. However, because of her dainty Employment physique, the Headteacher decided to She started her career with a Law Firm repeat her. This did not go down well at Osu for a few months after which she with her. She held her ground and put moved on to work at the Family Planning up a defence that, once she had passed Secretariat for three years. Whilst there, her examinations there was no need she educated many young women on to. “What would make an intelligent the need to plan their lives and also on student who has passed her exams be how to space out their children. In 1980, denied promotion to Form 2, because she got employed with Social Security she was short?” She asked herself. Bank Ltd. (SSB) now Société Générale Sensing a high level of obscurity with (SG) Bank where she worked for almost her admission to Form 2 in her current two decades and retired. Hardworking school, she decided to take her results to as she was in her entire career life, and Mr. Alomatu who was the Headteacher not wanting to be idle, she went on to of Avete L. A. Middle School. On seeing work for an accounting firm, Abotsi & her results, he decided to admit Georgina Associates, as a secretary for almost a in his school. year after which she decided to fully withdraw from mainstream working She therefore was admitted to start Form environment. 2, in her new school. Having seen the boldness Georgina had exhibited in her desire to be promoted to Form 2, Rev. Lawluvi, went to her new school and successfully negotiated for her return to E.P. Mixed Middle School, having been there for two weeks, to join her classmates, where she graduated with a Middle School Leaving Certificate in 1966. Further quest for knowledge, she Christian Life joined her mother in Kumasi where she She worshipped with Evangelical gained admission to Adebi Commercial Presbyterian Church, Trinity Parish and Institute, now Kumasi Commercial was a member of the Women’s Guild. Institute (K.C.I). Whilst there, she undertook a course of study which led to the award of a Stenographer Secretary. She returned to Accra and continued her education at the Government Secretarial School for a year. 5

She served as Financial Secretary for legacy of love, serenity and endurance the Guild from 2002 to date. which will forever linger on in our hearts. Marital Life It was at Labadi that she met her Mrs. Georgina Zonyira-Bakah joined husband, Mr. Edward Bakah, who was her maker on 23rd June 2023. She will then working at the Veterinary Services be greatly missed and will always be Department, just a walking distance remembered. She is survived by her from where she lived. After a period husband, four children, two grand- of courtship, they finally embarked on children, a son-in-law and her only their marital journey in April 1978. She sister. left behind four children namely; Kokui, Aseye, Awoenam & Selikem. As we lay her to rest, may the earth embrace her remains gently while her A wonderful and caring wife to her spirit finds eternal peace. Her presence husband, an invaluable mother, will be greatly missed but her impact on grandmother and a mother-in-law! our lives will forever endure. She inspired, influenced and touched the lives of those around her leaving a May her blessed soul rest in the glory and bosom of the Lord. 6

BYTHRUIBSUBTAEND Mr. Edward Bakah And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, “Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them” Rev. 14:13 KJV “April 1978!! April 1978!! were my fun to be with you. You were a lady words at the 37 Military Hospital, full of character, hard work, affability, when doctors broke the news of your decency and above all, a very strong and death to me. My children and others disciplined woman. There are simply no who were present stood petrified and words to capture what you meant to me, amazed, wondering what “April 1978” let alone convey the full weight of my really signified. In fact, I was struggling grief. to come to terms with the reality. The journey that you and I embarked on in April 1978 has come to an end. Yes. That’s what was ringing in my head. There was my “Gina That,” as I affectionately called her sometimes, lying motionless. I was left in distraught and disbelief. I married my wife in April 1978, and she remained my wife for over four decades until she breathed her last on that faithful Friday, the 23rd of June, 2023. You were simply amazing - beautiful, highly intelligent and it was always immense 7

I recall when I had the opportunity to Who will see to my wardrobe now, pursue a course of study in the United and remind me to update? Who will Kingdom. When I was done with the scrutinize things before I step out each course, a golden opportunity came my day? I am confident the good Lord is way. I was to stay on for an extended my refuge and will give me the strength programme. On hearing this, you to cope with the rest of the lonely days encouraged me to accept the offer, and ahead. this made it possible for you to join me in the U.K. We had really good time I knew what you were going through, together. And this exposure became a because I literally “shared the pains joyous experience and reference point with you,” day and night, but at the 37 in many of your conversations until Military Hospital, I was confident of your demise. your recovery, I was confident that, this would end in praise. Gina, you were my wife by marriage, but my friend by choice. You referred to us I was also confident that this too shall as the “Funny Couple.” Yes, indeed we pass, but the good book teaches us, that were, as it became a weapon available to His thoughts are not our thoughts, and us for resolving our differences without as the heavens are higher than the earth, any intrusion, whatsoever. We enjoyed so are His ways. our union, notwithstanding the pitfalls. You were a wonderful wife, a friend and For some time you were in and out of a true mother. Your care, your caution, hospital. Then things came to a head. your jokes, your recipes and the love I was no better in health either. But I will be greatly missed. became a Caregiver to you overnight, something I enjoyed doing because, you When I was worried, you said it would had done it for the family for decades. be ok. When I wasn’t sure as to what to I felt it was time for me to reciprocate do, you figured it out, When things were this gesture, in my small way, and I difficult, you were a pillar, When I got did it with love. The children, nieces, stuck in town, not knowing where to nephews, grandchildren, our in-laws, connect, you were there for me. Women’s Guild and various Men By these you won yourself the accolade and Women of God played a pivotal “Madam Know It All.” role in caring for you through their constant prayers, visits, professional Mama G, as I alternate your pet names, expertise and support, just to make you your departure has left me in shock, comfortable. thereby creating a huge vacuum which with all intent and purposes cannot be 8

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filled. My head is heavy and my eyes the words of our son. wet with tears, but I take consolation in those words you shared with me at the I know you’re sleeping because believers dawn of my birthday this year, exactly in Christ do not die, but they sleep in the a month before your demise. Those bosom of their Creator. There He will touching concerns you raised about our wipe away every tear from your eyes, children are paramount and so dear to no dyspnea and no excruciating pains. I my heart. am currently drown under a huge mass of memories of you, spanning well over The beautiful flowers you have planted four decades. I believe you’re in a better in my memory will be treasured for the place now, with heaven as your prize. rest of my lifetime. Things will never be We know, we will not get over the loss, the same for us, I know, but we all have been made better because you were in our lives. I am consoled by the fact that we shall be burying only your body. Your beautiful soul and your uncommon ability to calm the storm is still intact and with us. One thing that sets my mind at peace is looking at your footprints in the sand, when our son, Andy, came to console but we will learn to live with it and you me at a point and said, “Daddy, you will forever remain in our hearts. have done what Napoleon could not do. Do not forget our neighbour came to May you continue to rest in the our home on their usual visit, to tell you everlasting arms of God till we meet among other things, that you’re his role again. model, looking at how you were caring for mum. Farewell Gina! Farewell my Dear! You stood by mum at all times, through Farewell my Wife! thick and thin, even though you were also Xede nyuie! recuperating from a health condition. Dzudzor le nutifafa me. Mummy was well taken care of. She got all that she expected from a Househelp at a time we didn’t have one. You took up the mantle and you delivered. Mama will remember you for the sterling performance. I am personally touched,” 10

BYTCRHIBILUDTREEN Kokui, Aseye, Awoenam, & Selikem “We begin to remember not just that you died, but that you lived. And that your life gave us memories too beautiful to forget”. _unknown_ As we write these heartfelt words, tears It has really been a hard few months of both sorrow and gratitude well up in without you, our dear mum, and we our eyes, for you were not just a mother, know it is going to be harder in the you were a guiding light that illuminated coming months but we take consolation every corner of our lives. in the fact that, we will meet again one day after resurrection. You were a strong woman, the strongest we have ever known. We remember vividly when Andy, your Babyboy, returned home one day with bruises all over his body and you found out he was beaten by his senior in school, your words were – “Let’s go and let him beat me too. No, he must beat me too”. Your bravery did not end at only protecting us but also at motivating us to do great things. You really taught us well in all things you knew. In fact it felt like you had experience in everything we ever went through, so you were able to give pieces of advice which actually solved issues. 11

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You were first diagnosed with a health together, the chats we had as we cooked condition some 13 years ago. After together, the mini photo shoot we did the first episode of your illness, you every Sunday morning before church. were still strong. You were punctual in We are also going to miss receiving church, you took time to visit bereaved phone calls from you while at work, all family members and friends, you visited the times you called to tell us to renew friends and you still had the time and the Netflix subscription, we will also energy to do your amateur sewing of the miss all the times in the evenings when clothes you wore at home. you told us about movies you watched while we were away. Ten years down the line, all things were well until you started getting episodes But amidst the pain, we find comfort of the same illness. That faithful in the precious memories we shared, Wednesday, we thought it was just going the laughter, the tears, the joys, and the to be one of those days where you would sorrows, all of which have become the be on admission for about 2 days and threads that weave the tapestry of our we could go back home, but we were lives. wrong. Your case was referred to the 37 Military Hospital. We remember the Thank you Siiga, our dear mum, for last words we said to you that Thursday the gift of your love, for being our rock, night, when the Military officer was on prayer warrior, best friend, google map, our necks to vacate the ward because passenger princess, and many more. visiting was over. We told you we would We are forever grateful for the time we be praying all night for you and you shared. would be fine by the next day so that we can go home and your response was – Rest peacefully dear mum, rest in “Yoo mesi”, then we said goodbye and Heaven’s glory. Until we meet again, left. know that you are deeply loved and missed every single day. Early the next day which was Friday the 23rd of June, you were not looking Dzudzor De Nutifafa Me too good but we were still hopeful you Hede Nyuie would regain consciousness but once With all our love. again, we were wrong. We are going to miss all the times when you showed us the things you sewed while we were away at work. We are going to miss all the time we spent 13

BY TSROINB-UINT-ELAW Mr. Gershon Kpedor And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away. Revelations 21:4 Gone is the face I have also seen dearly. man should desire. I treasured you so Silence is the voice I love to hear. Gone much as you were generous, honest, from sight but never from my memories. principled, and God-fearing. Today, as I watch the coffin containing I have enjoyed the virtue of your wise your mortal remains, I feel certain that counsel. you were the best mother-in-law any I will sourly miss your warm reception whenever we visit you. Your firm and fair negotiation and problem-solving skills will forever be cherished by me. Even though I am shattered by your departure to eternity without enjoying all the fruits of your labor, I hope your benevolent and devoted service to mankind in general, has earned you a peaceful rest in the arms of the almighty God. Dzudzor Le Nutifafa Me!!! Amen. 14

GRTARNIDBCUHTIELDBYREN Nalikem & Nayram Kpedor “To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die” Thomas Campbell A tribute to our beloved grandma Siiga, In the kitchen, Grandma Siiga was a dada (the neighbors called her) a source magician, turning ordinary ingredients of boundless warmth and comfort. into culinary masterpieces that left our taste buds dancing in delight. Breakfast From the very beginning, you showered was amazing; fried yam soaked in egg us with affection, your arms embracing with veggies and spices which you us with a love so pure. You had a way of named toad-in-hole. Your akple and making everyone feel special. okro soup with chicken was the best, 15

and your jollof rice was mouthwatering. We recall vividly when you visited us during one of our holidays when we have all had supper and watching the television, at around 8:00 pm Nayram wanted to have something to eat but you will not barge only for you to scream “THE KITCHEN IS CLOSED”. Since then, this has become a slogan in our home whenever we finish supper the kitchen is closed. Dada, even at her age loved the game Rest in peace, our dear Dada, knowing of ampe and surely stole the spot from that your love will live on through the Nalikem. Indeed, you can’t teach an old generations you touched and the lives dog new tricks as the saying goes. you profoundly impacted. Your legacy lives on through the values you instilled in us and the memories we Amen. created together. We are forever grateful for the time we shared and the bond we formed. Though your physical presence is no longer here, your spirit remains an everlasting light guiding us through life’s twists and turns. Our Grandma has ears that truly listen, arms that always hold love that’s never ending and a heart that’s made of gold. 16

BTYRISBISUTTEER Mrs. Faustina Larvie When peace like a river attendeth my way When sorrows like sea billows roll Whatever my lot, Thou has taught me to say It is well, it is well with my soul Lyrics from hymn by Horatio G. Spafford Siiga as I affectionately called you, simply means big sister. We have been together since our childhood, living with our grandmother at Anloga. At age ten during one of our holidays with our mother of blessed memory who then had remarried and was at Takoradi, our mother decided I stayed with her whilst you continued with your schooling at Anloga. This was the first time we were separated but every long vacation you would come and visit us wherever we were stationed, in Takoradi, Kumasi and Accra. After completing your middle high school at Anloga, our mom asked that you stay in Kumasi which was where we were stationed at the time to further your education. Here, we lived together and even after our mom had to move 17

to Tamale, because she did not want to You were diagnosed in 2010 but you beat disrupt our studies, she rented a place for the ailment for 10 years. Unfortunately, us and placed us in the care of relatives. you were diagnosed of it again in another form in 2020, at the time I lost Siiga you became my mother, sister and my husband. Although you were ill and a friend who assumed responsibility of had almost lost your voice you were my wellbeing. by my side during my loss giving your unwavering support. We later moved to Accra with our mom after you completed your commercial Even after the first anniversary you school studies, we did everything were there holding my hands through together and were known as the three it all. I hoped you were getting better, musketeers. When you finally started however at the beginning of this year work and I was still in school you took your health started deteriorating, you me under your wings, gave guidance and lacked the energy to do simple tasks supported me in every way possible. which infuriated you. During your last months we were together every other There was never a dull moment with you, day, whatever food tickled your fancy I always witty and funny. I did not need to talk because you were my linguist and you knew what to say as though you were in my mind. We were so in tune with each other that people referred to us as twins because of the way we behaved. Wherever you find Siiga you will see me. After your voluntary retirement we prepared it for you, we had long chats decided together to open a stationery reminiscing about the past and our hope shop at Madina New Road and named for the future. it “Two Doves” and this became our known name. After a couple of years, On the 10th anniversary of the passing you saw an opportunity to open a similar of our mom Daga, you called and said, shop at your home at Ashongman Estate we must have a celebratory thanksgiving which was close to a basic school. This brought about another separation from seeing each other daily but thanks to technology we stayed connected every day. 18

in our mom’s memory. You directed and instructed us on what must be done. In your own words you said we must honor our mom and we must not make it about you. Therefore, we did go ahead as you had planned, although you couldn’t come to the church and travel to Atiavi for the wreath laying ceremony. You came to the house at Madina where most of the family who could attend saw you and possibly would be the last time of seeing you. Siiga you knew how dearly I loved you and I would give anything to have you with us. Your last words to me on that faithful Thursday morning when I visited you at the hospital, you were in so much pain, we held hands and you called my name thrice, aunty, aunty, aunty I am going to leave you. I understood then that the time had come, you were going to a better place where there is no pain, worry nor sorry. God be with you till we meet again; By his counsels guide, uphold you; With his sheep securely fold you. 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. Hede nyuie norvinya Dzidzor le nutifafa me 19

BTYRINBIEUCTEES “Then I heard a voice from heaven say, Write; Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on. Yes, says the spirit they will rest from their labor for their deeds will follow them” Revelation 14:13 We will not mourn like those without Siiga or Aunty “G” as we all hope, rather thank God for the life of affectionately called her was one of a Christ you lived on earth and the legacy kind. We are immensely grateful for the you left behind of unswerving love for gift of having you as our Aunty. You family. shared a special bond with us, took us 20

and clothes. As we got older you were our fashion police, in fact your sense of style and fashion robbed off on us, you will often say it’s how you carry yourself in what you wear that matters. Your teachings on how to carry oneself with grace and confidence remain with us and are passed on to our children. She will often say hold your head high on your shoulders, do not slouch as though the weight of the world is on you, and even if it were the case, you must not wear it on your shoulders for all to see. Siiga, you will always be our commander in chief, death will not change that. You were a force of life, even in sickness you instructed and guided us to always do the right thing according to your standards. An example was when we went to lay wreath on the tombs of our dad and grandmom, you emphasized flowers must equally be placed on the tombs of our departed relatives as well. We are glad we made a difference in your life just as you made in ours, the memories and lessons will forever be cherished. as your own children and instilled in Today, we gather to bid you farewell. To us a strong sense of family; it did not us you have gone home to your maker, matter the distance, you knew what was a place of no sickness, pain nor sorrow. happening in each of our lives. Farewell our dearest Siiga. As children we fondly remember Rest in perfect peace in the bosom of playing dress up practice in your heels the Lord. 21

ZOTNRYIIBRUATFEABMYILY We the Zonyira Family are completely heartbroken, shattered and gutted. The pain and grief in our hearts are unimaginable in the Zonyira family circle. Georgina herself, available in most family situations that required her presence or input, never held back or remained aloof. Words and space would be inadequate for us to eulogize a dear relative whose amicable disposition, humility, selflessness, affableness and commitment to common good and sense of family cohesion endeared her to all of us. All we can say is the quote our own Reverend Dr. F. K. Fiawoo, Founder of the Zion College of West Africa said – “ Our lives are as tales that are told, lives that are worthy, lives that touch many lives will receive flowers every year” Rest well in His Bossom, Sister Georgina Afi Zonyira – Bakah. Rest well till we meet again. 22

SISTTRIEBRUST-IEN-BLYAW In 1979, I was a student in the Eastern the chief was so glad that Ministry of Region, precisely Kyebi when my Education was sending a trained teacher younger sister Annie, broke the news to his village and for which reason he that Sister Georgie, as we affectionately would allocate an already furnished called you, had put to bed a bouncy baby room, Sister Georgie screamed saying girl adding she was already at Labadi to “Eeei I smell a rat! No way! Even your assist. brother will not allow you to go there. The chief wants to marry a young lady At the least opportunity I secured an ooo”. exeat to travel to Accra to see things for myself. On arrival Sister welcomed me All her co-tenants burst into laughter. into her home whole heartedly. I spent With her insistence I was transferred to a few days with the family after which a school nearby. However, that school I went back to school very excited. got a replacement who happened to be The reception was fantastic and as the my year mate. The least said about saying goes “First impression is the last the fate of my replacement the better. impression.” Sister Georgie stood exonerated. I was shocked. I continued to live with At her instance I visited her on mid- my Sister-in-law at the Seventh Store, term holidays. When I finally completed Labadi and later moved together to La college and was waiting for my posting Wireless Station after her husband, my as a teacher, I spent very useful time with brother, left the shores of Ghana. my ‘sister’, somebody must tell you she was my in-law and not a biological one. Sister, as we affectionately called and In fact my younger sister’s impression referred to her was a mother, a sister about her speaks volumes. and a friend to us. You were so lovely, caring and very supportive. You were Finally I got my posting to a village at my mentor and advocate. Katamanso Primary School. I visited the school. When I returned from Along the line I left the shores of Ghana my familiarization tour and told her and returned only last year. When I 23

learnt that you were not feeling well I Four days later I called to check on you visited you from time to time to sing as usual. My brother told me you were praises and prayed with the family. on admission at the GAEC Hospital. The shocker was the addition that you On one of the visits, I asked to know were actually referred to the 37 Military your favorite song. Realizing I was not Hospital and that you were waiting for familiar, you taught me how to sing it. It the ambulance. Half an hour gone, I was was “Zɔzɔ kple Yesu”. A fortnight later, by your beside with the promise to visit I came to meet you with your only sister, you the next morning at the 37 Military Auntie Faustina, who said the prayers Hospital. that day. When I asked you to choose a song, you were very consistent. Your favorite song goes like this: Mel’asi na Yesu miele zɔzɔm Wodem asi ne be woakplɔm Menyae be ne mezɔ kple Yesu la Mana be matra mɔ akpɔ o Mele zɔzɔm kple nye Yesu Zɔzɔm kple Yesu le nye mɔwo kata dzi Mele zɔzɔm kple nye Yesu Zɔzɔ kple Yesu dede ko. I paid you yet another visit on the 18th Sad enough, early the next morning, we of June. As part of the routine we sang were hit with the sad news like a thunder praises and prayed. We also delved bolt. into other areas. This was the time you talked about your special formula that We will forever miss you but you will you applied when you’re preparing remain in our hearts until the resurrection ‘Cabbage stew’ and ‘Borbi tadi’ for my day. Sister Gina, we love you but the brother. I wanted you to teach me but I Unquestionable God that we serve loves realized you were not audible enough. you better. Surprisingly enough you said your Rest in Peace. husband would teach me. I doubted my Dzudzö le nutifafa me. brother could stand in for you only for you to disclose that, he had it on tape and he used it anytime you fancied Cabbage stew or Borbi tadi. 24

TRIBUTE BY ELIZABETH SELORMEY-TONA (MRS) “Then I heard a voice from heaven say, Write; Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on. Yes, says the spirit they will rest from their labor for their deeds will follow them” Revelation 14:13 I was thinking about you, Sister Georgina, and it took me down memory lane. It has been a friendship of almost five decades that developed into the sisterliness. Even though we were not of same parents, God brought us as sisters here on earth. Yes, she was a sister from another parent. Our paths crossed when we were both young at the Family Planning Secretariat. Our spirits knitted together and we became very good friends which did not end there, but we went ahead to introduce each other to our families. Even though our homes were far apart, we still made time to frequently visit each other, shared great times together 25

and also attended programmes like parties and funerals together. All these took place during the years we were single and not married. Sister Georgina married first and I continued to visit her. Then she introduced me to her husband and finally her children. We still visited each other often and our friendship became even stronger. Anytime I visited her, she would prepare a special Akpa stew which was different from Akpa detsi. there is only just a wall that separates our homes. Our children became like siblings throughout the years. We were praying and trusting God for her health to be restored but little did I know that, the last time I was in the hospital to see you was the last time I will ever see you again. Sister Georgina, as I affectionately called her, sleep well, Goodbye sister, Hede Nyuie! I finally moved to Ashongman Estates, May your gentle soul rest in His bosom. and by divine orchestration, she also We love you but God loves you more. moved there with her family and now, Nɔvi lɔlɔ, Dzudzɔ le nutifafa me. 26

TRIBUTE BY RETIRED FRIENDS Social Security Bank (SSB Ltd) Now Société Générale (SG Ghana Bank) “Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, Love leaves a memory no one can steal” Life is a journey embarked on by all. to get her reports ready for submission However, no one knows when, where or before deadline to avoid query from her how it will end. It is for this reason that Head of Department. it is hard to accept that you are no more. We came into contact with the late Madam Georgina Zonyirah-Bakah when we were transferred to our various departments at the then Social Security Bank now SG Bank in the 1990s i.e Budget & Planning and Credits Division respectively. There we became very good friends. We had good times at the North Industrial Area Block of offices and the SSNIT Tower Block. Gina as we affectionately called her was very diligent and meticulous with her Secretarial duties. She was always ready to offer a helping hand for her team to meet deadlines. We remember vividly when we were to process and submit Customers Loan Applications reports by 5 p.m. every Friday for discussions and approvals, she would run helter-skelter 27

Gina was a jovial and an easy-going us, you have left your footprints in the woman. She never allowed anything to sand of times. Your death to us can be disturb her emotions. She was always compared to a beautiful song which has seen beaming with smiles. There was ended but the melody lingers on. always something to laugh about whenever Gina was in our midst. Even Until we meet again, we pray the good in challenging situations, Gina handled Lord finds a place for you in His bosom. it easily to the admiration of us all. Daa Gina, Dzudzor le nutifafa me. Gina, you may have passed on but your Nador agbe. memories would always live on within 28

TRIBUTE BY WOMEN’S GUILD, E.P. TRINITY PARISH “When peace like a river attended my way, When sorrow like sea billows roll; Whatever my lot; thou hast taught me to say, It is well, it is well with my soul” Time, it is said heals the wounds that Guild in the year 2002 and has since we suffer in this long journey of life on been an active member as she enjoys earth. True, but time cannot erase from our melodious music and dance to the our minds the legacy of memories a loved one leaves in our minds, especially if those memories are something we cherished and yearn for more. Indeed, as the sun rises and set, so are the day of our lives. Yes, we know as believers that this day would come, but we were unprepared neither could we have prepared ourselves adequately for this eventuality. The late Madam Georgina Afi Zonyira whose lifeless body lies before us today was affectionately known and called as “Aunty Gina” “Gina le maa” by all. She was a founding member of the E.P Church Trinity Parish Women’s 29

Glory of God. She was the first elected You battled to survive and overcome financial secretary when the group your pain. We know the pain was too was formed. During that period, she much and God wanted to bring you performed creditably and was called where there is no pain and suffering. again to hold the fought for the present Now that you are up in heaven, it makes financial secretary as she has re-located us feel so glad knowing that your pain and would not be punctual and active and suffering has finally ended. with her duties. A position she held till her demise. Until we meet and part no more, our beloved Princess rest in the bossom of OOO “Aunty Gina”, Gina Le ma” your maker. we grieve your loss, but heaven is celebrating its gain for you. Your smile Gborgbor Korkoe was full of sunshine and you were a Gbor-gbor korkoe lady of braveness, mother of mothers Gbor gbor Korkoe and a caring wife. Your demise broke our hearts and sometimes we wish you Dzudzor, dzudzor le nutifafa me could come back to life but we don’t Mawu na tu tsi na wo want you to suffer again. Amen. 30

TRIBUTE BY E. P. CHURCH, GHANA, TRINITY PARISH, MADINA Wo agba la le kpewo ma! Ekpɔ dzidzɔ ƒea? Amea ɖe gblɔ be va gbɔnye; Nadzudzɔ Are you weary, heavy laden? Is your soul distressed? Come to me’ says Christ I will give you perfect rest. It is with a heavy heart that we bid farewell to one of the most dedicated and committed members of our church. Mrs. Georgina Zonyira-Bakah who joined the EPCG, Trinity Parish, Madina in 1981, has left an indelible mark on the congregation’s history and will be sorely missed by all who knew her especially members of the Women’s Guild. From the moment she joined, she demonstrated a deep commitment to the church’s mission, becoming one of the early members of the Women’s Guild. In 2002, she was elected as the guild’s financial secretary, a position she held until her passing. Her financial acumen 31

and attention to detail were invaluable, and she played a crucial role in ensuring the guild’s financial stability and growth over the years. Her contributions to the church went beyond her leadership roles. She was a devoted member who attended services regularly and until old age and ill health caught up with her. Her commitment to her faith was unwavering, and she lived her life as a true Christian, always putting others before herself. As we mourn her passing, we take Mommy, your presence will be deeply comfort in the knowledge that she is missed, but your spirit will live on in now in a better place, reunited with her our hearts forever. maker. We are grateful for the time we had with her and the impact she made Rest in peace. on our lives. Her legacy will live on in the church’s history, and we will strive to honor her memory by continuing to build upon the foundation she helped lay. 32

EPHB 255 Nu si etsɔ ahe vɛ la, Míagakpe le Yesu gbɔ Le ɣaɣla ɖem; Míagakpe, míagakpe Aƒe mavɔa-ɖe gali, Metsɔ ɖe sia ɖe d’a-si nɛ, Mawu nanɔ kpli mí míagakpe. Fi si Yesu le; ‘Ye mexɔ ‘ƒe nya dzi se be, Afi ma dzidzɔha I: Awɔe nyuie nam. :I Mawu nanɔ kpli mí, míagakpe! Medzudzɔna gbeɖe o. Aɣla mí ke eƒ’a-si me, Dɔla kɔkɔe dzadzɛwo Ne nye mɔ do viviti hã, Ana mana mí gbe sia gbe! Le xlã ƒom fiazikpui la Manɔ dedie; Mawu nanɔ kpli mí, míagakpe! Ɣekaɣi gɔ̃ makpɔ wò, ‘Labe le zã titina ke Míagakpe, míagakpe Aƒe nyui, aƒe nyui sia Mele eƒe gbe sem bena: Míagakpe le Yesu gbɔ O aƒe nyui ma! Aƒe keklẽ la! I: Maxɔ na wò :I Míagakpe, míagakpe Nye denyigba nyui la! Mawu nanɔ kpli mí míagakpe. Aƒe, aƒe nyui! EPHB 654 Seƒoƒowo hã sɔ gbɔ Mía ŋui nafa, EPHB 288 Le dziƒo nyui ɖaa. Le vɔ̃ xexe sia me. Ɖeviwo le ha dzim Yesu ƒe ʋu ta, Ne fuwo ƒ’a-gbo tu la, Na mía ‘Ƒetɔ Yesu la. Míakpɔ ŋutifafa. Mayi dzi kple dzidzɔ. ‘Le ke wole dzidzɔ kpɔm O Yesu, nàve nunye, Le xlã ƒom fiazikpui la! Mía ŋui nafa, Be ne mava gbɔwò, Ɣekaɣi gɔ̃ makpɔ wò, Le gbe kple aƒe siaa Eye madzudzɔ kpli wò Aƒe nyui, aƒe nyui sia? Yesu Kristo ta Le wò fiaɖuƒe me! O aƒe nyui ma! Aƒe keklẽ la! Míakpɔ ŋutifafa. Nuxaxa adzudzɔ keŋ, Nye denyigba nyui la! Ne meva gbɔwò ko. Aƒe, aƒe nyui! Mía ŋui nafa, Ne fu le mía wɔm hã Míada ‘kpe na wò, Mawu! Esusɔ ʋee ko, nye hã Yesu Kristo ta Mía Mawu kple Fofo, Maɖo ha sia me. Míakpɔ ŋutifafa. Mawu ƒe Tenuvia hã Kristo nye nye agbe, Kple Gbɔgbɔ Kɔkɔe la Nu ka gɔ̃ mavɔ̃ mahã? Mía ŋui nafa, Ƒe nublanuikpɔkpɔ la, Madze Aƒetɔ yome, Ne ku te tu mí hã Nanɔ anyi kpli mí, Ava fiazikpui la ŋgɔ; Yesu, mía Fia be, Tso egbe yi ɖase ɖe Ekema nye hã maɖo Yeɖu ku dzi glo. Míakpɔ eƒe ŋkume! Aƒe nyui, aƒe nyui sia! O aƒe nyui ma! Aƒe keklẽ la! Ɛ̃, esɔ gbɔ! EPHB 591 Nye denyigba nyui la! Ʋiʋliwo nu atso, Aƒe, aƒe nyui! Yesu ayɔ mí Dɔ ‘lɔ,̃ lɔlɔt̃ ɔ, dɔ ‘lɔ̃ nàdzudzɔ, Yi aƒe mavɔ. Ziɔ wò ta ɖe wò xɔla ƒ’a-kɔ nu; EPHB 585 Míelɔ̃ wò vevie, Yesu lɔ̃ wò wu; EPHB 652 Dɔ ‘gbe! Dɔ ‘gbe! Dɔ ‘gbe! Yesu nya nu si míenya o, Edzɔ dzi nam. Mawu nanɔ kpli mí, míagakpe! Èmlɔ ‘nyi abe vidzĩ dzaa ene, Ne ame bubu nyae da ɖi Eya ŋ’tɔ nalé mí ɖ’a-si, Ke màganyɔ ɖe xexe sia me o; Aloo wotoe na nye ŋutɔ, Akplɔ mí dedie gbe sia gbe Dzudzɔ vivi trɔ zu tɔwò azɔ, I: Malé blanui :I Mawu nanɔ kpli mí, míagakpe! Dɔ ‘gbe! Dɔ ‘gbe! Dɔ ‘gbe! Míagakpe, míagakpe 33

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Appreciation The Husband, children and the entire family of the late Mrs. Georgina Zonyira-Bakah express their heartfelt gratitude to you for your love and support. We’re very grateful. May the good Lord replenish your resources. Design & Printed: G-PAK Ltd. + 233 (0) 20 818 0381