Tribute by
Edna Okorley
Mama, as I affectionately called her, was truly a mother by all standards to me than a sister-in-law. Her presence filled my world with warmth, guidance and boundless affection. She was one of the silent architects of my happiness and idols in the narrative of my life.
Her unwavering support and nurturing ideas have contributed to who I am today. Her words of wisdom and boundless patience have helped me not only in my marriage to her ‘son’ (brother), but also in nurturing the many nephews and nieces who by virtue of their education in Cape Coast have passed through my home.
Even though I call her Mama, she always referred to me as the 10th born of Maa Teꬼꬼ (her mother) and as such, related to me as a sister in many ways. Mama, I no longer hear your usual response ‘Me dᴐᴐ’ when I call, and the lovely, frenzied laughter. It heavily dawned on me, this March when I did not receive your usual call – ‘happy birthday me dᴐᴐ’. I am still unable to bring myself to this reality. I am hanging there holding on to the many scriptures you have shared with me over the years.
The loving memories of Mama will remain with me. The laughter still echoes in my mind, the time I spent with her and the chat we had in between my busy teaching schedules are lingering with me. We talked about almost everything, especially about how everyone (family and friends) is doing and coming events in the family.
She accorded everyone respect irrespective of their age. She would call our names with titles: Sis. Edna, Bro Amanortey, Sis. Laako with great respect. Anytime I heard ‘Bro Laryea or Nyemi Laryea’, I knew there was going to be a ‘filla’ unfolding news in the family. When it was raw “Laryea” then there was a serious disciplinary issue for discussion.
I will always remember her accolades for my children, Joseph (Ataadjei, mi tsɛ Adjei or mi Papa), Priscilla (mi nyɛ Atswei), Shirley (Mi nyemi Nina-Mi mami hami kapiɛ) and Rosemond (Minyɛmi Kaa), accompanied with a lovely loud smile. There was never a dull moment around Mama.
Thank you, Mama, for raising a husband for me and thank you for being such a great mother and sister to me, and a sweet grandmother to our children.
Gentle soul, rest on. Mama, Sister Korkor, Me dor,
Yaawo Ojogbann yɛ Nuntso lɛ kpokoi amli
Amen.