“Fading away like the stars in the morning, Losing their light in the glorious sun, Thus would we pass from this earth and its toiling, Only remembered for what we have done.”
These words from the hymn Only Remembered, written by Horatius Bonar encapsulate the fleeting nature of life and the enduring impact of one’s actions.
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This message was at the heart of the final tribute to Madam Ajoke Ekundayo, a centenarian whose life embodied selflessness, love and generosity.
Madam Ajoke Ekundayo, who passed away at the age of 107, was not only celebrated for her longevity but for the lasting impact she had on everyone she encountered.
On September 25, 2024, her family, friends, and loved ones gathered at the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) Love Assembly in Ilupeju, Lagos, to honor her with a solemn yet joyful Service of Songs.
As the choir’s hymns filled the room, there was a collective reflection on a life lived with purpose.
The day of the ceremony began with heavy rains, which some saw as a symbolic shower of blessings—an acknowledgement that Madam Ajoke’s life had been one of immense fulfillment.
Despite the rain, people arrived in large numbers, determined to pay their respects to the woman whose kindness and compassion had left an indelible mark on their hearts.
The program began with an opening prayer, followed by uplifting praise and worship, led by the RCCG Love Assembly choir.
Each hymn carried a message of hope, much like the life of Madam Ajoke, who, like the stars fading in the morning, had passed from this earth—but left behind a brilliant legacy.
Among the hymns sung was “My Hope is Built on Nothing Less,” a reflection of the steadfast faith that carried her through life. The first Bible reading, taken from John 5:24-29, spoke of the promise of eternal life for those who have lived in righteousness—an assurance that seemed to echo the life Madam Ajoke lived.
As the service progressed, more hymns followed, including “Alleluia, Alleluia,” sung in Yoruba, and “King of Glory, King of Peace,” each beautifully rendered to honor her. The third Bible reading from Philippians 1:20-23 captured the essence of a life lived for Christ: “For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain.”
For Madam Ajoke, this was a fitting summation of her journey—a life devoted to serving others and living with integrity.
The most touching moments came when Madam Ajoke’s family shared personal testimonies about her life.
Her first son, Dr. Ademola Ekundayo, spoke of her boundless generosity. “She was too good to a fault,” he said, recalling how his mother’s heart was wide open to everyone who came to her in need.
Others shared similar stories—of how Madam Ajoke never hesitated to help, how she gave of herself without expectation of anything in return.
Her daughter-in-law shared a particularly moving memory: how Madam Ajoke traveled abroad to care for her during the birth of her first child, a testament to her nurturing spirit and selflessness.
Even her driver and church members spoke of her punctuality, devotion, and readiness to give, no matter the circumstances.
The sermon that followed, delivered by Pastor Banire, highlighted the importance of living a life dedicated to Christ. It was a reminder that our actions on earth—the love we give, the kindness we show—are what will remain long after we have passed. “We will only be remembered for what we have done,” the pastor echoed, bringing the hymn’s message full circle.
As the service concluded, the family was called forward, and prayers were offered for them.
The final hymn, “Jerusalem on High,” once again sung in Yoruba, marked the end of the ceremony, but the legacy of Madam Ajoke Ekundayo lived on in the hearts of those who had gathered to celebrate her life.
Like the stars that fade into the morning sun, Madam Ajoke has passed on from this earth.
Yet, she is not forgotten. Her life, filled with acts of kindness, generosity, and unwavering faith, will be remembered by all who knew her.
Indeed, she will be “only remembered for what she has done.”
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