At the age of 100 years, late Mrs. Amuwo Erebu Obode (Née Emotimide) could have been said to have lived, but with the yearning by humanity for eternity, a century seems infinitesimal a time to live. And that was the feeling invoked as the remains of the Matriarch was given one last honour at her funeral wake-keep in Azama Town in Gbaramatu Kingdom, Warri South West Local Government Area of Delta State, on September 30, 2025.

Born in 1925 into the families of Emotimide Okoro of Aruku quarters of Azama community and Okri/Ogbointu quarters of Okerenkoko community, and Gege Zapu of Bralabor quarters in Benikrukru community all in Gbaramatu Kingdom, she was married to Obode Ebimiesinde (of blessed memory) in Kunukunuama Town, in Gbaramatu Kingdom, according to her biography. Their union was blessed with six (6) children. At the time of her passing, she is survived by three (3) children, twenty-five (25) grandchildren, twenty-nine (29) great grandchildren, and two (2) great great grandchildren.

As with the popular occupation of her time, she was a core fisher woman, and lived with her husband in Kunukunuama. The fishing occupation took them from the shores of Nigeria to Douala in Cameroon where they stayed for years before they returned back to Nigeria. After the demise of her husband, she continued to live with her mother in Opuedebubor with her immediate family.

She is described "as a lover of children, including her grandchildren and other relatives without discrimination; she was very charitable, sharing the last of anything she had with anyone that came her way. She was so quiet, peaceful, and never a dull moment being with her, full of smiles. She was a lover of truth, a down to earth personality; everyone who came across her knows she was a virtuous woman; she always keep distance from trouble and hold on to the truth about life, never judged anyone for any reason and always gave wise counsel at anytime the need arises."

Paying tributes, her children and descendants extolled their departed golden mother, recalling her fondness, godliness, humour, exemplary lifestyle, peacemaking efforts among other positive virtues. Find below the tributes as culled from the programme's booklet:

"You were larger than life. Caring to a fault. Someone that I emulated without exception. Still can't believe you have left us. You fought long and hard, but JEHOVAH GOD knows best. You were a mother anyone could ever wish and hoped for. You showed me so much love, care and understanding. You set us all in the right path. Your Bible studies were valuable and insightful. Cleanliness and neatness personified. You always encouraged me to trust in JEHOVAH GOD, that things will only get better. You taught by example. You will be greatly missed. I miss you dearly Mom." — Mrs Isere Evelyn Obode

"Dear Mum, my heart yearns to discover that you are no more with us. You were my greatest motivation, and you will be remembered fondly beyond all doubt!.. Your hospitality was one of a kind, you are the most compassionate, loving, and humble Mum I know. You always look out for others first. I know you are resting in God's Bosom. You were God's priceless gift to me. You taught me good virtues that people praise me for today, you were the best Mum I've ever had. Rest in peace Mum." — Mrs Christiana Lucky Wariyai

"Dearest Mum it’s so hard to believe you are gone! Although you are asleep in Heaven now, you’re not that far away. Our hearts are full of fond memories of you when we were growing up! You lived your life with meaning and always with a smile upon your face and that calmness! People say that only time will heal a broken heart, but it’s hard. I know you are at peace now, but know that you will never be forgotten. If only we could have you here longer, but God knows best. It is well in Jesus Name." — Mr Iropupa Ebimiesinde

"There is no day that will pass by without you impacting a life, nothing ever brought your mood down you were always enveloped with happiness. You would always set an example for us and you always put the needs of others above yours. Till tomorrow we will continue learning from you. Thinking about your passing would always bring a dark cloud, but when we remember the wonderful memories, the cloud will go away and the sun will shine bright just the way you shined your entire life. May your soul rest in peace." — Grandchildren

"We Love you so much. You are and were the best grandmother. You always kept us happy. You taught us the way of life. You studied with us and taught us GOD'S Name is JEHOVAH. You taught us how to pray, teaching us the truth and the Word. You taught us all how cleaning is important to the environment and the Earth. we just want to thank you for what you've done and how amazing you'll always be. We really miss you." — Great Grandchildren

"Grandma was loving and kind she will always take care of us and made sure that we were happy. She was neat and always wanted things to be done in order, her passing would bring pain to anyone who knew her very well. We will always love you, may your soul rest in peace." — Great Great Grandchildren.

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