Juliette Payin’s tribute to my “Beautiful Sister” as she described herself in her last video message recorded while she was in hospital on Christmas day.

Why did this happen, and how could this be? She had so much to live for, we could clearly see. Miss Akuah as we fondly called her was my big Sister and a mother to me. She took very great care of the family after Papa’s passing in July 1973. She assisted Mama financially and emotionally with our upbringing and for that I will forever remain thankful.

She left home, in Sierra Leone, when we were four years old only to see her again during her first visit back to Sierra Leone when Papa passed away. I was again fortunate to stay at her house, at Foss Avenue, in England, while attending college. We bonded as sisters do, and the children learned to call me “Auntie Payin”.  She loved watching Eastenders, Falcon Crest and Dallas, all great shows that I enjoyed with her back in the 1980s. What a loss but never mind!

I will forever be grateful and cherish all the memories we had together. Countless three-way phone calls with my twin sister – no matter what time it was… chatting away about life experiences, family stories, sharing of photos and reminders about the importance of family, ideas about healthy living and how to prepare us as we advanced in age. We would FaceTime when she felt the phone calls were not enough.

A caring, loving sister, and always willing to help. Thoughts about the less fortunate even while lying in her sick bed, knowing there was not much she can do while in hospital during the holidays. I will miss our talks, laughter and her comforting words and those moments where we mutually rejoiced.

She loved her children, grandchildren and great granddaughter, and got excited when she spoke about them.

Miss Akuah, we love you, but God loves you more and knows you’re in a better place now. Rest well Sister and best friend and May Perpetual Light shine on you.  The grandkids will be fine, all is not lost, and God is in control. Say hello to Papa, Mama, Miss Minah and Brother Kweku.

Your loving sister, Payin.