This was always going to be heart breaking task in writing about the passing of my dear mother, who gave me so much and from whom I gained so much.

My mother was a loving, dedicated, devoted family woman and a devout Christian. She was loved by her family and many others, both young and older, who considered her as a mother, grandmother, sister, aunty, and dear friend.

She was an extraordinary woman who truly made me the man I am today, and although I told her this to her face and wrote this in some of her birthday cards, I cannot help but think that I did not say it often nor loud enough.

In my opinion, a lot of the things a mother does are often taken for granted; however, her true worth is only really recognised and valued as we go through life.

Religion, family values, respect, education, and high standards were at the centre of her teachings. She gave good advice about what to be careful of with people in certain situations, and how to treat people. The family motto is “seek for the highest” – what fantastic life lessons!

She was a beautiful woman, with those lovely little eyes and prominent cheekbones with her infectious laugh. When Mum dressed up, I would often say to myself, “my mother looks good you know!” and boy could she dress.

But with any relationship, of course, there were ups and downs. She would often call me her “sparring partner” as well as tell me, “You are not my husband!”, when I was giving her what I thought to be good advice. I think this may have had something to do with the fact that she said I looked like Dad, so I may have unwittingly got caught up in the middle of their business somehow – who knows?

The love for her husband was incredible, and she supported him throughout their happy marriage. What an example they both set – I cannot remember them having a serious argument in front of us and no raised voices – how is that possible?

When Dad went to Ghana, she had to raise 5 children on her own for the period that he was away. After having my first child I had to bow to her telling her I don’t know how she did it as I was struggling with only one. Then, with the family moving to Ghana, she had to cope with a new country, culture, some troublesome in-laws, and the language barrier. But Mum was charming and strong, and handled things superbly, so much so that she made lots of friends and was greatly respected. She was always going there so that should tell you how much she loved the place.

Mum was full of life, her parties and gatherings were always packed with friends and family. People would visit her regularly so there was never a dull moment and was not a place to find peace and quiet. If she found it too quiet for her liking she would liven things up whether you liked it or not.

I will end with a line from the famous African song that goes, “sweet mother I no go forget you for the suffer wey you suffer for me…” and we.

Mama, thank you for being our mother, our prayers are with you and please continue to guide us from up above!

May you rest in perfect peace.

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Akuah – Daughter