We remember Aunty Yinka with love and gratitude for the joy and warmth she brought into our lives. She was a woman full of life, love, and wisdom, always ready to offer prayers, encouragement and guidance to me. Her kindness and positivity left a lasting impact on everyone around her!

Her legacy lives on through her daughters, Esther, Debbie and Gracey whom she loved deeply and was always so proud of. The memories she created will remain in our hearts forever. Sending prayers and comfort to the entire family. We love and miss you aunty 🕊️

A Tribute to Yinka ("Iya Esther")

Over twenty years ago, my wife met Iya Esther,  just a year and a half before the birth of our last born daughter. What began as a friendship quickly became sisterhood. She became our daughter’s godmother, but she was more than that, she became family.

She had a way of being present at the milestones that matter.

I remember when she asked me to MC her daughter Esther’s college graduation party. I thought I did a terrible job, so terrible, I decided to stick to my day job and never try MC’ing again.

But her? She wouldn’t let me think that way. She came to me with that radiant smile, showered me with praise, told me I was wonderful. That was her gift, seeing the best in people and speaking it out loud.

On July 3rd 2022, Esther and her mom came to visit us.

I remember her looking at my wife and me and saying with conviction, “You two need to set up a marriage seminar,  to teach couples how to live in harmony.”

She meant it. She believed in us. And at every opportunity, she would praise us, encourage us, and speak blessings over our home.

She was vibrant. She was a bright light in every room. Her laughter had a way of pulling you in, her energy filling every space. She carried herself with elegance, the only person I knew who could make tribal marks not just beautiful, but regal.

Though we lived about 30 miles or so apart, distance was never a barrier. Month after month, we would visit one another, sharing meals, stories, and laughter that strengthened the bonds between our families.

In our faiths, we are taught to give thanks in all circumstances.  As Christians, to always be thankful, in all things and for everything, the good, the difficult, and even in moments of loss.

So today, even in our sorrow, we give thanks. Thank You, God, for the gift of her life.

Her memory will forever be a blessing to her family, to my family, and to every soul fortunate enough to have known her.

May her light never fade from our hearts.

May her joy echo in our memories.

And may God grant her eternal rest and peace.

She will be deeply missed… but never forgotten.