Aku Orleans-Lindsay

We were blessed to have Auntie Aku, the auntie who brought pure, unadulterated fun into our lives.

As a child, her visits to Ghana was an event; the house would instantly snap to attention, charged by her incredible energy. She arrived as a benefactor, a chef, and a master strategist, converting those hard-to-swallow ingredients into exciting new recipes.

As an undergrad, Auntie Aku became one of my business guides. She helped me land a vacation job. We even started selling shoes. She bought the shoes and I sold them on campus.

Visits to her home in the UK would necessarily include some retail therapy. The Harlequin Shopping Centre, Watford will forever stand as a monument to those exciting shopping trips we shared.

But her greatest legacy, for me, lies in the soil. In later years, we bonded over the quiet magic of gardening and flowers. She didn't just leave me memories; she left me life. Every thriving plant she gave me, blooming faithfully in my garden, is a testament to her beautiful, enduring spirit. She is, quite literally, rooted in my life forever.

Dear Auntie Aku, it was so sad to hear of your passing but I guess God wanted you to rest from your suffering on this earth.
Thank you for the huge role you played during my secondary school days. My family and I are very grateful to you, and we pray God gives you a peaceful rest.
Till we meet again.
-Sally

Aku, a true friend, a loyal confidant and an affable colleague. Adieus amingo

Tribute to Aku from Karen
My dearest friend, my bestie of over 52 years! I will always cherish my memories of you. We were so close often people would wonder and ask us which school we both attended. We would laugh and say, "No school, just at Labone School holiday classes." We were so different but enjoyed each other’s company. We didn't always agree, but we never quarrelled and respected our different opinions. We had genuine love for each other and we confided in each other. I will never forget when you supported me totally in my most trying moments. Yes, you and I supported each other totally in good times and bad, and we still had great plans for the future months and years. Alas! Hmmmm.
I have always been a second mum to your girls as well as their aunt through their father. By the grace of God, my relationship with them will continue with love.
You were very brave about your illness and carried us along with you. I will never forget that anguished call from you that Saturday evening. I rushed to be with you first thing the next morning. Thankfully you cheered up and lasted another week and a half. God was merciful though, and did not let you suffer much pain for which we give Him thanks. You were so ready for your departure and ensured you prepared us also. I know you will be watching over me, we talked and you know what I mean.
Sleep well dear friend, in the bosom of our Lord, until we meet again. Love you always. I will really miss you.


Sleep on, beloved, sleep, and take thy rest;
Lay down thy head upon thy Saviour's breast;
We love thee well, but Jesus loves thee best--
Good-night! Good-night! Good-night!

In a few days a gentle formidable giant will be laid to rest. To those of us who knew her well, we are comforted knowing her good earthly deeds will continue to comfort us. Her love, kindness and ever willing to help will forever be crystallized in our hearts. She was a source of encourage to me. Her daily well wishes despite being continents away are already dearly missed. Oh how I loved receiving her morning prayers. Though her promises to visit the British Virgin Islands were not fulfilled am happy to know her other family members did.
May your temporary rest be peaceful and your name be witten permanently in the book of life. Your hope was anchored in the resurrection and I pray we meet again under paradistic conditions my dear loving friend. Gone but will never be forgotton.
RuthMax

“To everything there is a season, turn, turn, turn,” and in her season, Auntie Aku gave her mind and heart as our Auntie, until “the day the music died” on her earthly labours and she laid her robes down in honour.

She was “a natural woman,” strong, wise, and steadfast, yet gentle as orchids in bloom. In her own garden she found joy - tending orchids, flowers, and fruits with patient care. “Morning has broken” in her ordered greens, each petal and leaf a quiet hymn of love.

She loved music deeply. To her, a song could brighten a moment, heal a mood, or celebrate life. With melodies in her heart, she showed us that even in challenges, “here comes the sun” and “it’s all right.”

With our mum, her sister Nyamikeh, they were “like two birds of a feather,” inseparable, often “dressed for success” in matching joy. Their bond was a harmony, a chorus carried on to us their children - proof that “we are family.”

Born Catholic, she lived her faith till the end, her voice lifted in hymns and her heart steady in prayer. She believed in “amazing grace” and trusted always that “the long and winding road” would lead her home.

For me, her passing is hard to accept. Though she had her own flourishing garden, she often asked to see mine each time we discussed the different array of the flowers and fruits I had planted. I regret not finding the time to come pick her to my home, as she had requested. She would have delighted in it. It feels almost impossible to picture her unwell - childishly, I held onto the belief that such close family could never fade through sickness, that somehow, they would only age gracefully and then depart. Yet even in this sorrow, I hear her whispering “don’t stop believin’,” reminding me that love endures.

Today, though we grieve, we know “she’s simply the best, better than all the rest.” She has gone where “every little thing is gonna be all right.”

Rest well, Auntie Aku.
Your song will never end.

My Sister, my Friend Aku!! All too soon the music has changed and so we too must change our dance. I miss you in fits and starts, I don't miss you all the time, cos I pretend subconsciously that you are in your house and I am in mine and that's why I don't see you. I miss you when I walk amongst my orchids and I remember our promise to walk your garden when you feel better; I miss you when I remember our back and forth with my grocery list and your advice on what to buy in Ghana and what not to buy from CostCo - 'buy evaporated milk in Ghana, it is cheaper'; I miss you and our chats about where to buy the best Haussa Koko, the best Tea Bread, Dim Sum, Kelewele and my search for Acheke and Tilapia for you because you fancied it that day. Your love for cooking fancy dishes, duck and all; and my love for eating whatever you cooked. You brought the grilled Tilapia all the way to my house because it was the first dish you had cooked in over a year because I wouldn't let you be till you got back to the cooking you loved. How did we get here? As young mothers, your Gyaanua and my Kwaku played in the cot together whilst we gossiped and you cooked. We had some good times and in your last days we sang "I'm leaving on a jet plan" and reminisced about our time together. The depth and extent of your kindness to so many always surprised me, how could you hold people so close for so long. Your love was amazing and I loved you for the quietness of your love and loyalty. My Aku, I hope I helped you along this life journey and I hope I supported you the best I could in this fight, for it was a ferocious fight though you looked calm on the outside. God heard your prayers, albeit we did not like the answer. I love you forever my Sister, my Friend. "Adwoba", you called and I always knew it was you, you made sure everyone called me Auntie Adwoba. So how about our cruise? I thank God for the time He gave you to us and the time He gave you to say your goodbyes, we know that time will never be enough and we wanted more. You are at peace my Sister, my Friend, it is well with you and this too shall pass. As you said, it will be ok after you leave, I hear you and I have to believe it. Rest my dear sister, rest well, Good night Aku.

Aunty Aku will be dearly missed. She was full of life and had a wonderful way of telling you things exactly as they were. She was a joy to be around and I'll always be grateful to her for welcoming us into her home when we visited the UK and later, when we moved to settle there. She didn't just give us a place to stay; she made us feel like welcome. I remember learning how to make Chinese chicken wings form her, at the time, I was so impressed that this meal I thought you could only get in a restaurant could be made at home.

She had a special gift for giving practical, frank advice. I remember one time whilst staying with her in Watford and I was dressed to go out, she saw me wearing my jeans low and, and told me told me how I should wear it on my wait. Of course at that young age, I paid no attention but now that it is the only way I wear my trousers, I often remember her and smile about it. One of my most recent memories was the frank conversations we had when we visited them in Watford on one of her trips to the UK. It was such a refreshing and honest conversation about life and the realities of it, and I wish we had had more of those.

She will be sorely missed, but her spirit and her wisdom live on in all of us. May she rest in perfect peace.

Ekleba

I met Mummy through her wonderful and my lovely roomie Rami in 2006. I had just come from Kenya. So I was still new to the customs and general life in Ghana.

When Rami invited me to her home, I was so apprehensive how I would fit in the family. But my fears quickly vanished as mummy embraced me as her third daughter.

Never did I feel like a stranger. Mummy made sure I felt at home and at ease.

I remember when she brought me some clothes, I was so shocked why somebody would be so kind to me when I was not their immediate family. But I quickly learnt that is not how Mummy perceived me. She saw in me a daughter. I'm forever grateful.

Even during our high school leavers dinner, Mummy made sure me and Rami were dazzling and looking like 100 bucks.

Away from the material things, she really encouraged and conforted me when I was conflicted about future uncertainity after college. She made me believe I could be anything I wanted to be as long as I worked hard.

Our last physical conversation was in her bedroom with her pouring wisdom and encouragement

I could write more, but it would not be enough. So rather, I will say thank you, mummy. Thank you for embracing me as your daughter. Thank you for opening your heart and home for me.

Sorry I never got round to repaying for all you did for me. But, sincerely thank you.

I know heaven has gained a wonderful and thoughtful angel. May Jesus welcome you with 'Well done, my good and faithful servant. Sleep well mummy, see you again when our time comes. ~Penina.

Just to even come to terms with your departure and to write this has been a struggle. You were like a mother to me madam. May you rest well and will forever be in my heart. Thank you madam. Words can't do justice to how I feel in my heart.

Aunty Aku was the personification of an angel in human form, from the moment which i was fortunate to meet her 6 years ago through Gyanuaa, She took me as a son, always encouraging me and making sure i didn't lack for anything. I dont know how my life in medical school would have been without you. She was one of the most generous souls i have had the pleasure of knowing, she always full of life, and laughter, and whenever i called her venting about how frustrated i was she would tell me "its only for this period " always reminding to pray and letting me know how much she believed in me. You've touched my life and taught me so much about patience and resilience.
I will miss you so much Mummy, your strength and grace through everything inspires me everyday.
I will forever carry your love in my heart.
May God continue to bless your soul and keep your gentle spirit in His paradise.
Thank you for being an Angel .
Rest in Love
Joshua Kamal.

It is uncommon to find a boss who becomes more than a supervisor, but also a mentor, guide, and mother. Auntie Aku was that rare gift to me and my colleagues at the Financial Stability Department. She was my first Boss when I joined the bank as a young man trying to find my feet. As we worked together to build the credit reporting system, she led with passion and grace, but what set her apart was her heart. She cared beyond the call of duty, ensuring that everyone she encountered felt valued, heard, and supported. But of course, she did not hesitate to voice out her frustrations or discontent.

To me, she was more than a boss; she was a mother. She called me her SON, which I was so proud of. She nurtured my growth. As deviant as I was in the beginning, she corrected me with love and celebrated my victories as if they were her own.
Auntie Aku, your kindness, patience, and strength have left an indelible mark on me and my family. You showed so much love for my kids, and there was not a time you returned from the UK without buying them dresses or gifts.
Alberta and I will never forget your support, and we will celebrate and remember you every time we celebrate Kofi’s birthday, as you both share the same birthday on June 1.
Auntie Aku, you said to me a few days before your passing that you were waiting for your maker to call you. That was very hard for me to take, and so I told you I wanted to come over, but you insisted I wait and come home later. I didn’t know that was going to be our last conversation.
I believe strongly that you are with your Maker as was your wish. It is my prayer that the memories we shared will continue to inspire us all, and that we will strive to embody the same love and dedication you showed so effortlessly.
Rest Well, Madam. Da Boe!

Aku and I became friends when she joined us in the 3rd Form till to O'L exams when we lost touch.
There was a long break after school but we reconnected in London and would call each other from time to time.
More recently I was privileged to offer her support through some health challenges. This gave me an opportunity to see how positive and upbeat Aku was. She had a wonderful sense of humour and had me in stitches when I went to visit her. I was so inspired by her bravery and positivity and the time she found to send me daily prayers and encouraging posts.

I will truly miss Aku- She was such a warrior. May She Rest in Eternal Peace.

This prose by an unknown poet reflects all that has gone on:

Don't grieve for me for now I'm free. I'm following the path God laid for me. I took his hand when I heard him call. I turned my back and left it all.

I could not stay another day. To laugh, to love, to work or play. Tasks left undone must stay that long. I found that place at the close of day.

If my parting has left a void. Then fill it with remembered joy. A friendship shared a laugh, a kiss. Ah yes these things, I too will miss.

Be not burdened with times of sorrow. I wish you the sunshine of tomorrow. My life's been full, I savored much. Good friends, good times, a loved one's touch.

Perhaps my time seems all brief. Don't lengthen it now with undue grief. Lift up your heart and share with me.
God wanted me now, He set me free🙏🏾🙏🏾

Aku and I became friends in secondary school through our mutual love of Mills & Boon Romantic novels. We both enjoyed the love stories and often discussed them. She had a stash of them as she came from abroad where the novels were readily available.
Aku was the first person who ever mentioned the allergy of “Hayfever” to me. She used to sneeze a lot when they cut the grass and she would say that “ I have got ‘hayfever’ and I thought it was a white person’s disease!!! It was only Aku who got it! I only understood it when I came abroad and experienced it myself!!!
Aku was quite tenacious and not soft like other people who came from abroad. She would not allow anyone to bully her so they learnt to leave her alone!
Aku and I re-connected in the mid-90s when she worked at a Solicitors’ Chambers near my place of work and we used to meet for lunch on regular basis. I got to know her family during that period. Aku was a very generous person with a great sense of humour; we had great laughs together!
She was always very helpful to me in so many ways. She was very resourceful but never boasted or felt superior about anything. She was very down to earth and a very lovely human being. I learnt a few humble life lessons from her.
My Dear Friend, May The Good Lord Keep your lovely soul in perfect peace!!!

TRIBUTE TO A REMARKABLE WOMAN-MY BOSS AND MY MOTHER
Today, I want to pay tribute to a woman who has been so much more than a boss to me, a leader, a mentor and a mother.
Your strength inspired me, your patience moulded me, and your guidance helped shape the professional I am today. You didn’t just lead with authority; you led with heart.
In moments of doubt, you were my reassurance. In times of growth, you were my biggest supporter. When I stumbled, you didn’t criticize, you lifted me up with the same gentle firmness a mother shows her child.
You taught me about resilience, about grace under pressure and about how to lead with kindness and love. You listened not just to what I said but to what I couldn’t express, offering advice, comfort and encouragement when I needed it most.
Many people are lucky to have a great boss. Fewer are blessed to have someone who becomes family. I am one of the lucky ones. Thank you for believing in me and standing by me in the most difficult time of my life. My children and I are so grateful for the love you showered on us. You will always hold a special place in my heart not just as a boss but a mother figure who gave me so much more. You gave me unconditional support in both my professional and personal life. Through every challenge, every triumph and every turning point, you stood by me. Thank you for your kindness.
You have fought a good fight, and you have finished your race, you have kept the faith. I pray the Lord would receive you into his bosom, where there is peace beyond understanding and rest for a soul so dearly cherished.
Rest Well Mrs Lindsay, with your maker.
With deepest respect and heartfelt gratitude.
Golda

Auntie Aku was an amazing boss and mother figure. As a leader ,the progress and welfare of her staff was paramount to her.
Although our boss at the Collateral Registry for less than a year ,she worked hard to ensure our progress and create opportunities for her staff regardless of grade or seniority. She would always push us a little out of our comfort zone . This helped build our confidence and competence. She paved the way for foreign training for a significant number of staff including myself. She also worked assiduously to project the work of the Registry and achieve its goals.
Outside of work she was a mother and friend to us. Her doors were always open to us , she created no barriers, and we would always turn to her for advise and guidance in every aspect of our lives.
Although very friendly, she would also ensure discipline when needed in her own quiet way. I would never forget when as Head of Department she started writing her time of arrival in the office attendance book. Every morning became a race to complete the attendance book early enough to avoid the embarrassment of writing your name after the HoD😀.
She was simply a lovely woman , widely loved and respected in the Bank.
Even in retirement she stayed in touch on a regular basis. Till this day , I take great delight in wearing her one-off office scarfs I ‘inherited’ from her on retirement.
It was with great sadness to find out she was unwell post-covid. I was so filled with dread having had my mother go through a similar experience as her. Auntie Aku was strong throughout . She maintained her sparkle and wit despite the difficult times.

It was with great joy that I was able to visit her in March with some of my colleagues. She was in high spirits and jovial. She gave us hope. I thought we had more time to visit her again after her summer trip to Europe. Alas, it was not to be. Her passing has hit us,her BoG children, hard. She is no longer a phone call away. We can no longer have inspirational messages or catch up over WhatsApp.
Auntie Aku, we will truly miss you. Thank you for your kindness, guidance and friendship. For always checking up on us.
May God comfort and protect your husband, your much cherished daughters and your entire family.
Rest peacefully in the bosom of the Lord , Auntie Aku.

Nana Afriyie

Auntie Aku was an exceptional boss, a motherly leader and a great advicer who left an indelible mark on staff at the Collateral Registry. My stinct with her, at the Registry, though short was awesome. I pretty much remember her advice to me when i confided in her that i was transitioning to the Payment Systems Dept & Secretary's Dept. Thank you very much Auntie Aku. I will forever not forget that pep talk.

Your vision, integrity, and passion inspired us to strive for excellence at the Registry. Your guidance, mentorship, and support continued even whilst on retirement.

We will surely miss u but we are comforted that you remain with the Lord.

Till we meet again,
Till we meet again
God be with you till we meet again

Tribute Auntie Akua. She was my Head of Department at Collateral Registry. She gave us opportunities to excel and explore at work place. Even she left the Bank on retirement we still had a very good relatinship. I was always visiting her at home. Even when she was on admission she called that i should come and pray with her. Although she knew i didnt like going to church. We had a very strong bond like a son and mother. Long conversations on phone. God knows best rest well Madam Lindsay.

n loving memory of my mentor and mother figure, Auntie Akua Lindsay. Thank you for your guidance at the Collateral Registry and for a friendship that grew far beyond the office walls. Our long talks, your unwavering faith, and your unconditional love meant the world to me. I will cherish our bond forever. God knows best. Rest well, Madam.

Dear Auntie Aku,
News of your passing came as a rude shock to me. You looked so well the last time I saw you. Even though you mentioned you had been unwell, you were your vivacious self and I assumed that the worst was behind you. My greatest regret is not making time to come and visit with you at home when you were alive. I assumed you would always be around, my strong "work mom". Meeting you as my first boss in BoG was a great blessing to me. You nutured me, fought for me, encouraged me, shopped for me during your trips abroad..... together with some others, we earned the tag, "Aku Lindsay's kids. Your motherly heart moulded me and gave me the confidence I needed to start out right. Auntie Aku, I would give anything to have you alive and well with us for a few more years. Ten or fifteen more years with you would have been a blessing. But alas, our days and the days of our loved ones are not in our hands. Auntie Aku, may the good Lord grant you eternal rest. You'll forever remain in my heart. Farewell my work mom.

Dearest Aku,

Your presence in my life was a gift, and though you're now with our Ancestors, your impact remains.

I'll cherish the memories of our time together, where your straightforward approach to life cut through complexities, and your candid, authentic personality inspired me.

Your powerful voice and insightful awareness commanded respect, and while you may have been a little intimidating at times, it was a testament to your strength and conviction. You embodied resilience, authenticity, and wisdom, often with a dash of dry humor that kept me on my toes.

I loved listening to you, absorbing your words like a sponge. Your presence taught me the value of speaking truthfully and standing firm in my convictions. As I navigate life, I promise to honor your legacy by finding my own voice of power. I'll strive to exhibit the bravery and courage that you embodied, and I'll continue to shine brightly, just as you did.

Continue to radiate love and light among the Angels and our Ancestors, dearest Aku. Your memory will live on in my heart, and I'll carry your spirit with me always.

Rest in peace, beautiful Aku. Your strength, wisdom, and love will continue to inspire me.

Aku was a cousin like no other. A strong woman, steadfast in her principles, and deeply rooted in love for family. She had a way about her.. with her natural charm, she could draw you in without you even realizing it. She got things done, never complained, and carried herself with grace, even to the very end.
As far back as I can remember, she never missed an opportunity to tease me. Even on her last visit to Canada, before she retired, she kept me laughing with her playful spirit. Even at GVO’s funeral in Ghana, she amused herself by hiding my mobile phone, just to watch me fluster in desperation and of course, everyone roared with laughter at my expense. That was Aku.. true to her nature, there was never a dull moment when she was around.

I have a very fond memory of taking her to a vineyard for lunch during her visit to Canada. It was a gorgeous day, with a breathtaking view, and we spent hours reminiscing about our younger days, especially during her vacations with us in Takoradi. Those conversations, filled with laughter and nostalgia, remain etched in my heart.

Though we were only four years apart in age, she always felt wiser, older, and so much advanced.
In her final months, when I called to lift her spirits, she refused to dwell on her illness. Instead, she turned the conversation elsewhere.. a true reflection of her strength, resilience, and determination to fight her battles quietly, without burdening others.

Aku lived with zest, love, and laughter. She touched our lives in ways we will forever cherish. I loved her dearly, and I will miss her deeply.
Our condolences to ther family and may her beautiful soul rest in perfect peace.