Chief Sir Alfred Gbolahan Sowemimo

Celebrating a life well-lived and deeply cherished.

Celebration of Life

Chief Alfred Gbolahan Sowemimo came into this world on the 4th of January 1929. He was born into the family of Ijaola Ladapo Sowemimo and Christiana Ololade Sowemimo. His birth was the cause for celebration as he was the first of the nine children God blessed his parents with.

His early years were filled with the joy that came with the freedom of childhood. His education began at primary school level at Agbeni Methodist School, Ibadan in 1934 and was completed in 1941. He then proceeded to Osogbo Methodist School for his standard 4. Upon completion, he was admitted into Abeokuta Grammar School in 1943 to begin his preparatory class and graduated in 1949 as a holder of the Cambridge Certificate. He decided to take the next step in his career and continued to Clerical Training School, Osogbo from 1950 to June 1951.

He began his career in the Nigerian Civil Service in 1951 and quickly gained a reputation for his honesty and upright character. When faced with an attempt to involve him in financial misconduct, he chose to speak up rather than stay silent— an act of courage and principle that earned him commendation from the department’s leadership and the deep respect of all who worked with him. This set the tone for a career marked by integrity and trust.

In 1954, a visit from his cousin, Miss Bola John, to Moore Plantation marked a turning point in his life, as she was accompanied by a young lady named Miss Idowu Agbebiyi. What began as a chance meeting soon blossomed into a courtship, and in 1957, they were married—a union that became a cornerstone of his life. Their marriage was blessed with 5 children; Olubukunola, Olubunmi, Olabimpe, Omotayo, Akinwunmi, 14 grand children, and 10 great grand children as at the time of his death.

His career continued to gather pace when he was transferred to the Ministry headquarters at Secretariat in Agodi, Ibadan as a Senior Clerical Officer in 1960. He once again worked diligently and with the utmost professionalism which earned him the respect of his senior officers and led to his promotion to Executive Officer on the 1st of October 1962.

In January 1963, he was appointed Private secretary to the Minister of Economic Planning. He held this position until 1964 when he reverted to Executive Officer - Administration in the ministry of Economic planning. In 1965, he was posted to the ministry of Establishment and Training in the Organisations and Methods Unit. In 1974, he made the decision to pursue a degree at the University of Ife (now known as the Obafemi Awolowo University) to study Public Administration. He graduated from Ife in 1975. During this time, he was promoted Higher Executive officer.

In June 1975, he was posted to the Ministry of Education as Officer in charge of Teacher’s Grade 2 examination. 
In 1976, when Ogun State was created, he was transferred there as a Senior Executive Officer and posted to the Ministry of Agriculture. He served in the following Ministries in various capacities:

   i.     Ministry of Agriculture
   ii.    Ministry of Establishment and Training
   iii.   Ministry of Finance
   iv.   Civil Service Commission
   v.    The Local Government
   vi.   Ministry of Trade
   vii.  Judicial Service Commission
   viii. Ministry of Works and Transport as Secretary of Finance and Administration

Daddy retired on the 1st of October 1986, having achieved the milestone of 35 years in service. Before his retirement, the Head of Service commended him for his outstanding contribution towards the advancement of the civil service in the country and promised that government will be interested in drawing on the wealth of his knowledge in future. Therefore he served once again as an Admin Officer in the National Electoral Commission from 1987 to 1990 as well as a series of Tribunals.

A devout Methodist, Daddy brought his spirit of service into his faith community as well. From 1972 to 1975, he served as a Society Steward at Agbeni Methodist Church. After relocating to Ogun State in 1976, he continued his dedication to the church at the Methodist Cathedral, Ogbe, where he went on to become a Senior Circuit Steward.

In 1982, Daddy was honoured with the chieftaincy title; Aare Onigbagbo by the Methodist Church Cathedral, Ogbe Abeokuta.
In March 1995, Daddy set up a church in his home following a call on the pulpit by the Bishop of Egba Yewa to ensure that the Methodist Church find a home in Oke Ata where Daddy was living . Church services and matters were held in his living room for 5 years, after which the Church got a piece of land in the surrounding area where an edifice has now been constructed.

Daddy was made the Olori Ebi of the Jibolu-Taiwo family in May 2016. The ceremony for his installation was carried out on Saturday the 6th of August 2016 during the annual Ajoyo at the Sowemimo house in Ogbe, Abeokuta.

In 2019, Daddy was honoured as a Knight of John Wesley in recognition of his dedicated service to the Methodist Church. 

Daddy lived a long, colourful, and eventful life, using his wisdom and wealth of experience to counsel his children, grandchildren, and members of the community alike. A passionate storyteller and devoted custodian of family history, he often drew on ancestral narratives to help the younger generation understand their roots and the values that come with being part of the family.

He was deeply loved by all who knew him, and his presence, wisdom, and unforgettable stories will be profoundly missed. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the values he instilled. He leaves behind his beloved wife, his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, all of whom will continue to honour his memory with love and pride.

Timeline

Gallery

Tributes

August 12, 2025

Daddy, may your soul rest in peace. I'll never forget our first meeting when you welcomed me with open arms and took me to the family house, sharing stories of our heritage, including the remarkable life of my great-grandfather who once lived there. Your kindness and concern for my well-being always shone through in your calls to my Mom, where you'd ask about me with genuine interest. You've left a lasting impact, and heaven has gained a truly beloved soul. Rest well, sir.

Sowemimo Ibukun

August 9, 2025

Daddy, Daddy as I fondly called you. You were a rare gem and it’s been a great privilege having you as my father. A loving and reliable husband to your dear wife. You both had a rare bond and I believe that the love you shared contributed to your long life. You both spoke with one voice that we, your children couldn’t change or fault.
You were a wonderful father to us; Yes you were strict, but in a loving way. Our home was so filled with love and laughter and it was always a joy to see you. You were a unifying figure within your immediate and extended family. Our home was always filled with family members. Always extending the hands of love to everyone.
You raised us up to be reliable, trustworthy and be content with whatever we have. Growing up in our home was a lot of fun and at the same time, you inculcated values into us.
You made us feel loved and special. Daddy had a special way of calling each one of us. He also gave all his children, grandchildren and even the great grandchildren unique pet names.
You raised us to believe in the Lord and trust Him in everything we do. You were a great leader in the community. You held the post of the Chairman of the Okeata Housing Estate for years.
God blessed you with a lot of wisdom and you reflected it in all spheres of your life. You were always ready to give words of advice to everyone.
Daddy, daddy!! These shoes you left behind are so big that we can only pray that our tiny little feet will grow into them and fit them perfectly.
Rest on, Daddy. ❤️
Bunmi Phillips

Bunmi Phillips

August 9, 2025

A Tribute to My Dad

Daddy was a rare and beautiful soul—a man whose life was defined by love, wisdom, and unwavering kindness. He was a deeply loving and devoted father, whose care shaped the very foundation of our lives.
Today, I honour the life of an extraordinary man—my dad.
Daddy was loving, kind, gentle, and selfless and he had a way of making us his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren feel special, deeply seen and unconditionally loved.
To us, he was a father, a friend, a protector, and a teacher. To the world, he was a man of integrity and grace. We are who we are today because of the love he gave so freely.
Daddy was a devoted father and a loving husband who deeply cherished our mother. The love he gave was the foundation of our home. His love was ever-present and deeply felt by all of us.
Growing up, there was never a dull moment. Daddy had a special name for each of us, and mine was Buks Buks—a name I still hear in my heart. Those pet names were more than playful; they were his way of wrapping us in love. And as time passed, towards the end of his life, he began to call me by my full name, including my middle name—like a father gently holding all of me, with pride and affection.
Daddy sacrificed a lot for us and denied himself of life’s pleasures for us. He was the one who would always drive us—anywhere, anytime—with no fuss. At the end of each school term, he would start by picking up my sister from her boarding school nearest to our home, then come for me at mine, before we all set off for Oyo to pick up our other sister. Those road trips were always filled with laughter, stories, and a sense of adventure—some of my fondest memories.
His quiet wisdom gently guided us through life’s many challenges, and his words always carried the weight of experience, truth, and deep love. He taught us the value of patience and the importance of trusting in God. One of his favorite sayings was, “Everything that has a beginning will always have an end.”
Each time we visited or telephoned him, he would greet us with warmth, pouring out blessings and heartfelt prayers that touch our souls. Those prayers were a shield, and a father’s deep love all in one. He poured out blessings freely, and those blessings and prayers still cover us today.
Daddy didn’t need much to be happy. He was content with the simple things—family around him, laughter in the air, peace, purpose, and knowing we were safe. He taught us that a full life is one lived in service, in contentment, in joy, and in love.
Daddy, your absence is deeply felt, but your presence remains with us—through the names you gave, the laughter you sparked, the drives you took, and the blessings and prayers you never stopped giving.
Thank you Daddy, for being the best father we could have asked for.
We miss you, we love you, and we’ll carry you with us always.
Rest well, Daddy. You gave us everything. And we will carry your love, your laughter, and your legacy for the rest of our lives.

Fondly and lovingly remembered by your daughter -
Elizabeth Olubukunola Afekare (Buks Buks)

Bukunola Afekare

August 9, 2025

Tribute to Dad
My Dad, a rare gentleman, an administrator to the core, a kind and caring father to us all. You sacrificed so much, denying yourself many comforts just to give your children a better life.
You lived a good life and left us with very good legacies that moulded our lives. You impacted and touched many that came across you in a jovial way, you dropped meaningful advice.
I am blessed to have had you in my life.
Papa mi, I am assured in 2 Timothy 4:6-8 that you have fought the good fight, served the Lord, and I know you will rise on the resurrection day where we shall meet to part no more.
May your soul find Peace as you rest in the Lord’s blossom.
Your Bim, Bim.

Bimpe Sowemimo

August 9, 2025

Tribute to Daddy
Daddy’s presence was both a gift and a blessing to those who knew him. At 96, he lived a full and fulfilling life marked by wisdom and warmth.
He was a historian in every sense of the word. Daddy’s stories were like windows into the past, rich with detail, humour, and sometimes a touch of mischief. You could never visit him without leaving with a new tale tucked into your heart. Daddy, I will miss all those stories, most especially the one about your uncle who went to Fernando Po.
Contentment was one of Daddy’s core virtues, and he taught us to embrace it as a way of life. He often said with pride, “I am poor and proud,” reminding us that dignity is never tied to wealth. Through his example, we learned not to measure our worth by what we had, but by who we were. We learned not to envy, but to be grateful for what we do have.
He loved children. He kept sweets and biscuits beside his bed to give the little children who came to the house. I remember growing up in Ibadan, all the children in the neighbourhood would run out to meet him on his way back from work.
He had a unique pet name for all his children and grandchildren I always looked forward to hearing him call out “T for Tayo” whenever I called. It never failed to warm my heart.
Daddy, I will miss you. You were a father in a million. Growing up, we didn’t have much, but we had love. You deprived yourself so your children could go to school.
You prepared us for your passing in your own way. You sang the hymn “Nearer, My God, to Thee” with a sense of peace that we didn’t fully understand at the time. Now, we realize you were preparing your soul and gently preparing ours. You spoke often of Mummy, and you made us promise to care for her after you were gone. Daddy, we heard you. And we are keeping that promise.
Yes we cry, but today we celebrate the life that you lived. A fulfilled life full of love and laughter. Though you are no longer here with us in body, your spirit lives on in our hearts, in our values, in the stories you told and the love you gave, your legacy lives on.

Rest well, Daddy. You have earned your peace.

Your daughter, T for Tayo

Tayo

July 9, 2025

Tribute to a Remarkable Father

It’s hard to put into words the impact someone can have on your life — especially someone who stepped into your world and loved you as their own. The man I’m honouring today was more than a relative. He was a father to me in every way that truly matters.

I spent the better years of my childhood under his care and tutelage, and those years shaped me deeply. He and his beloved wife — my dear aunty — raised me with a kind of selfless, unconditional love that few are privileged to receive.

He never once raised his hand against me — even in moments when I surely tested his patience.(confession time 😀😃😄) I remember, as a child, even stealing small amounts of money from him. Yet he never condemned me. Instead, he led with gentleness, correcting me with love and guiding me with wisdom.

He was a very prudent man — careful, thoughtful, and deeply content with what he had. He never chased excess, but always made the most of what was in his hands. His life was marked by quiet discipline, humble strength, and deep gratitude.

He often reminded me of who I am and where I come from. One phrase I will never forget is: “I am Black and proud.” He carried himself with dignity and a strong sense of identity, and he instilled those same values in me.

One of the things I’ll miss the most is how he would respond whenever I called him for prayers. The moment he heard my voice, he would light up with his familiar chant: “Shade, Shade…… Ẹkọ nwọlé, ewé njáde!” (meaning baba is ok and eating well) — his joyful declaration of progress and blessing. Then he would begin to pray for me, covering me with words that lifted my soul and reminded me I was never alone.

He lived 96 long, meaningful years — and passed peacefully in his sleep. What a beautiful way to meet one’s Maker. Though I miss him dearly, I rejoice knowing he is now resting in the presence of the Lord.

He has left behind more than memories — he has left a legacy. For the father figure he was, the mentor he became, and the love he gave — I will be forever grateful.

Sleep well, Daddy. You have fought the good fight, finished the race, and kept the faith.

“The memory of the righteous is blessed…” – Proverbs 10:7a (KJV)

With all my love,
Afolashade Ajoke Olaloko

Folashade olaloko

July 9, 2025

⸻

A Tribute to a Remarkable Father

It’s hard to put into words the impact someone can have on your life — especially someone who stepped into your world and loved you as their own. The man I’m honouring today was more than a relative. He was a father to me in every way that truly matters.

I spent the better years of my childhood under his care and tutelage, and those years shaped me deeply. He and his beloved wife — my dear aunty — raised me with a kind of selfless, unconditional love that few are privileged to receive.

He never once raised his hand against me — even in moments when I surely tested his patience.(confession time 😀😃😄) I remember, as a child, even stealing small amounts of money from him. Yet he never condemned me. Instead, he led with gentleness, correcting me with love and guiding me with wisdom.

He was a very prudent man — careful, thoughtful, and deeply content with what he had. He never chased excess, but always made the most of what was in his hands. His life was marked by quiet discipline, humble strength, and deep gratitude.

He often reminded me of who I am and where I come from. One phrase I will never forget is: “I am Black and proud.” He carried himself with dignity and a strong sense of identity, and he instilled those same values in me.

One of the things I’ll miss the most is how he would respond whenever I called him for prayers. The moment he heard my voice, he would light up with his familiar chant: “Shade, Shade…… Ẹkọ nwọlé, ewé njáde!” (meaning baba is ok and eating well) — his joyful declaration of progress and blessing. Then he would begin to pray for me, covering me with words that lifted my soul and reminded me I was never alone.

He lived 96 long, meaningful years — and passed peacefully in his sleep. What a beautiful way to meet one’s Maker. Though I miss him dearly, I rejoice knowing he is now resting in the presence of the Lord.

He has left behind more than memories — he has left a legacy. For the father figure he was, the mentor he became, and the love he gave — I will be forever grateful.

Sleep well, Daddy. You have fought the good fight, finished the race, and kept the faith.

“The memory of the righteous is blessed…” – Proverbs 10:7a (KJV)

With all my love,
Folashade Ajoke Olaloko

Folashade olaloko

June 30, 2025

There are so many fond memories I have of you, I will forever treasure spending the holidays with you and Grandmum. Hearing you call out “Baba Oyo” as we drove in was all i needed to know that we had arrived at my holiday home.

You would always sit us down and take us down memory lane with your stories. It is sad that you never got to meet Chono in person and show her all the family albums.

I am missing your love and your kindness but I am comforted by knowing you lived a long fulfilling life and you’re smiling down on us.

Love and Miss you Grandad

Nifemi & Chono Animashaun

June 30, 2025

I was always “KK Baba O” to Grandaddy. Even in distance, your wisdom, warmth and love resonated through the entire family. I will always hold dearly the memories and laughter you gave to me at such an early age. Unfortunately I could not say goodbye to you, and even though I couldn’t be as near to you as I would wish. Your legacy will live through me.

Goodnight, Grandad.

Psalm 112:16 “Surely the righteous will never be shaken; they will be remembered forever”

OluwaKayowa Animashaun

June 27, 2025

My fondest memories of granddaddy are from the times when we’d go to Abeokuta for our school holidays. I will never forget the sound of his voice saying “A-fikkyyyy” as soon as we arrived. My brothers and I would eat them out of house and home, and granddaddy would always say “let them eat!! I’ll buy more!!” Those were the highlights of my summers.

Granddaddy was a story teller - always telling us one thing or the other about our family history. He didn’t need any invitation to bring out his photo albums and talk about where we came from and all the family connections. He even knew the history on my dad’s side! I discovered that we were from a royal family from him, which was so exciting and Nifemi & I went around calling ourselves Prince and Princess from then on.

I will miss you dearly granddaddy. Even though you spent the last many years telling us “Grandaddy is old! I can go at anytime!”, it still feels surreal that you’re not here anymore. I’m sad that my children didn’t get you meet you but I know you’re resting in the Lord. We’re grateful to God for an exceptional 96 years and the lasting legacy you have left.

Rest well granddaddy.

Till we meet again.

Fikayo Esinaulo

June 27, 2025

Unfortunately you’re no longer with us Grandad ,but you’re memory and legacy lives on forever in our hearts.The beautiful memories ,experiences and lessons will always be cherished and remembered .You were a great man who built a beautiful family and you should honestly be proud of that .We miss you deeply. Rest well Grandaddy. We love you .
Baba Eket

Sowemimo Oluwatamilore

June 27, 2025

My earliest memories of you are of you playing with me and fondly calling me Topus! You had a name for everyone and treated them so warmly and fondly. Grandad your heart was so big and your smile was as big to match! You were so funny and loved to tell a story or two!
I miss you and I’m heartbroken to not have been able to say goodbye and see you again but I’m grateful that God kept you with us as long as he did! I thank God for your long life and for the incredible impact you have had on all our lives! Despite you telling us all for the last 20 years that you were going to die soon, none of us really believed it let alone really expected it to happen any time soon. Your love and your legacy will live on with us that you have touched for as long as we all will live. We love you and we celebrate you! Until we meet again.
Lots of love from Mark, Tope, Annabel and Sophia Forsyth

Tope Forsyth

June 27, 2025

​I still remember the first time I met you — a strikingly handsome and dignified man, quietly studying me as if to ask, "Is this man worthy of my daughter?" Once you decided I was, you welcomed me not just as a son-in-law, but as your own.
​You were a fair, loving, gentle, and caring father. With your warm sense of humour and lively spirit, there was never a dull moment in your presence. Sleep peacefully, Daddy. You will be deeply missed.

Lekan

June 26, 2025

Granddaddy was an exemplary man. He gave all of us nicknames. Mine was Afeyi-babyyyy…gbram! Every time he saw me or heard my voice, he never failed to call me by that pet name with a large smile on his face. When you ask after Ife and Temilorun , you’ll say “awon Ijebu nko?” (How are the Ijebu people?) 🤣

I remember as kids whenever we went to the grand parents for holiday, while grandmummy was the one to (sniff out all of our mischief 😂😂 and) play indoor games with us to keep busy, granddaddy would sit us down and tell us stories. Oh yes, he was one great storyteller- from Nigerian history to family history to fictional tales.

I particularly remember during the evenings, we would carry chairs outside to “take some fresh air”. Granddaddy’s chair always faced the gate as if he was expecting visitors. He was that open and receptive of people. Oh he loved people. And he always had a word of wisdom or advice to share.

We are grateful for the time we got to share with you and more so, the many lessons over the years that have made us who we are today.

You lived life. You lived well. And you impacted greatly.

We love you, granddaddy. Rest on!

Feyisara, Ifeoluwa and Temilorun Taiwo

June 22, 2025

With a heart full of gratitude, reverence, and profound emotion, I honour the memory of an extraordinary man—my beloved father-in-law.

Daddy, your life was a testament to quiet strength, deep humility, and enduring wisdom. Your passing into glory is not just the close of a long, remarkable chapter, but the end of an era for our family.

I had looked forward so much to seeing you later this year—to once again say thank you for everything you’ve been to me, and above all, for the precious gift of your daughter, Olubukunola Elizabeth Afekare (buks-buks), whom you gave to me in marriage 47 years ago with trust and joy. You were also looking forward to that visit, as you always did. But God, in His perfect timing, has called you home.

You often reminded us—gently but firmly—that everything that begins must also end. “Everyone has their own bus-stop,” you would say. “And they get off when they reach it.” Those words echo now with a deeper truth.

Yes, there is a season for everything—a time to be born, and a time to die.
And Daddy, you lived your time beautifully.
Ninety-six rich, meaningful years. A life well lived. A journey walked with grace.

You didn’t just leave behind memories—you left behind a legacy. A testimony of character, love, and unwavering faith. Your calm demeanor, your steady hands, your wise counsel—these are etched in our hearts. And then, your signature phrase, so simple yet profound: “No cause for alarm.”

That was you, Daddy. Reassuring. Unshaken. Anchored in peace. You spoke those words not as comfort alone, but as truth drawn from a heart that knew stillness, a soul rooted in quiet trust. Whenever you said it, I believed it. Because your life made those words believable.

You were many things to many people—but to me, you were simply special.

From the very first time I met you, you welcomed me like a son. Your arms were open wide, your voice warm and full of kindness. I still remember the peace I felt in your home that day—an unmistakable sign that I was in the right place, with the right family, and above all, the right woman to walk through life with me. Your gentle encouragement in those early years of our marriage laid a foundation I still lean on today. You would call me, “Tunde, omo mi”—my child—and in those words, I felt not just acceptance, but love.

Thank you, Daddy—for your daughter, for your blessings, for your example, and for 48 years of peace and cherished memories. You taught me, without ever raising your voice, that a happy home is far more valuable than wealth.

How shall I describe you?

...A man of rare gentleness and quiet humility

...Content, peaceful, never rushed by the world’s demands

...Calm in crisis, free from anxiety

...A man of deep integrity and principled living

...A wise leader, steady and fair in judgment

...A loving husband, devoted father, doting grandfather, and great-grandfather

...The proud and noble head of the Jibolu-Taiwo family of Egbaland

...A storyteller, a humorist, a living library of family and culture

...A man who laughed freely, gave generously, and loved deeply

...A man who owed nothing—to anyone. No debts, no apologies, no regrets.

You walked this earth with grace. And now, Daddy, you walk in glory.

I miss you—more than words can ever say.
But I carry your voice in my heart, still whispering: “No cause for alarm.”

Indeed, there is none. For though we grieve, we rejoice. You are now at peace. At rest. Wrapped in eternal light, held in the everlasting arms of your Lord and Saviour.

Thank you, Daddy, for being all that you were.
Good night, and sleep well.
Until we meet again.

Tunde Afekare – ("omo mi" - my child)!

Tunde Afekare

June 22, 2025

It’s hard to describe Granddaddy in just a few words because he meant so much to so many. He was a quiet, steady presence, full of wisdom, love, and deep faith.

Granddaddy didn’t just talk about God, he lived for Him. With Grandmum, he started a Methodist church right in their living room. That step of faith showed who he truly was, someone who opened his heart and home to others. He loved the church, but even more, he loved people. Everyone who met him felt seen, respected, and cared for. I honestly can’t think of anyone who ever had a bad word to say about him.

He was the storyteller of our family. His well preserved collection of old photographs, some dating back to the early 1900s, was like a personal museum. Every picture came with a story, a lesson, or a laugh. Through his stories, he connected us to our history and helped us understand the value of where we come from.
Family was everything to Granddaddy. He was there for every moment, big or small. One of his most memorable habits was giving everyone a special nickname. Not just his children and grandchildren, but great grandchildren too, even in laws. No one was left out. That was his way of making each person feel loved and remembered. He will be deeply and greatly missed by all of us.

As I write this, I still feel his presence, calm, gentle, and full of grace. Granddaddy didn’t need a spotlight. His life was his message, and I try to model my own life around how he lived. With faith, humility, love, and integrity. That message will live on in all of us.

Thank you, Granddaddy. We love you deeply. And we always will.

Olujimi Phillips

June 21, 2025

“Dami Boy, Omololu”. That was Granddaddy’s greeting for me which I yearned for every time I spoke to him. I will miss you. Your humility, warmth, prayers and unreserved show of generosity and love towards EVERYBODY are the traits and behaviours we will all remember you for. And I will endeavour to demonstrate those same traits and behaviours every day in your memory. Rest Well Granddaddy.

Dami Phillips

June 21, 2025

Granddad, it breaks my heart that we didn’t get the chance to say goodbye in person, and that my children never had the opportunity to embrace you. But I find comfort in knowing we will meet again in the afterlife.

One of my fondest memories of you is the way you gave us nicknames with such affection, mine being Femooooo and Tinashe’s, the Zimbabwean. Every time we spoke, your voice lit up with joy, and without fail, you’d tell me, “I’m getting old now, I’ll be gone soon.” It’s only recently that I realised you’d been saying that for nearly 20 years.

Time waits for no one, and I regret not visiting sooner. Still, I’m so grateful for your kindness, your warmth, and the way you were always happy to hear from me and my family. Thank you, Granddad. You’ll always be in our hearts.

Tinashe, Olufemi, Janai and Josiah Muzvidziwa

June 7, 2025

Papa"s life is full of story and used to say "JEUN KO KU"
On 25th of April,2025 around 3pm,In the afternoon,I went to visit papa and Mama,when I got near the gate I was wandering who was with papa when I had the voice of papa loudly and clearly until I went in,and I saw one mama also came to visit them.I now told grandma that I had been hearing grandpa voice from afar without knowing that grandpa was saying goodbye,because the didn't give anybody sign even that evening papa was eating and he asked for another meat because the one he was eating fell down.That particular evening papa was telling that "OMO MI JEUN KO KU NI MO WA O,EKO NWOLE EWE NJADE"
Visiting papa felt like a mini vacation,full of peace,laughter and comfort.He always made sure I felt at home,constantly asking if I needed anything,offering snacks,drinks and his kindness.Honestly,I feel I gained a little weight every time I visited.
The same God who guided your steps on earth has welcomed you home,where there is no more pain,no more sorrow only peace eternal.
We thank God for the gift of life,and we trust that he,in his infinite mercy,will keep you close until we meet again
Rest well,dear Grandpa.

Mrs Ajibike Ruth Akinremi

May 28, 2025

Beloved Daddy, words cannot fully capture the depth of your impact on our lives from infanthood; you were always there for us through the good times and the bad, you showed us compassion. Through your example, we learned the value and importance of family. We are grateful to God for every moment we spent together. Even in your absence, your legacy lives on. Rest in perfect peace,daddy, until the resurrection day.

Ayo,Seyi&Remi(Mr. Kayode Sowemimo's Children)

May 28, 2025

Daddy, was an epitome of a good father, husband, grand father, great grand dad that lived for his immediate, extended and communal members.
He loved us and we saw the love radiate in him, with each of us having a fond pet name that he calls us.
We love you Daddy & may you continually have eternal rest in the bossom of our Lord Jesus Christ Name.
Amen.
Tim- Tim

Rotimi Adebiyi

May 26, 2025

Granddad was my guiding light when I lost both my mum and dad over three decades ago. He stepped in with unwavering love and strength, becoming both a parent and a friend. His kindness, wisdom, and gentle presence shaped my life and gave me hope during my darkest days. Grandpa’s sacrifices and care taught me the true meaning of family and resilience. Every lesson he shared and every moment we spent together lives on in my heart. I am forever grateful for his selfless love and the foundation he built for me to become who I am today his memory will continue to be remembered.love you Granddad.

Olawunmi oyeniran

May 26, 2025

Daddy Sowemimos was my late father Evangelist Josiah Soyooye Adekanmbi cousin. A selfless dad, who radiates great love to us despite our dads death. He was a ralling points of love to our family. He will be greatly remembered for his selfless love, wise counsel and love to us. Rest well dad till the resurrection morning. We missed you dearly.

Akobi Elizabeth Olubukola

Family tree

Other family members

Annabel
Forsyth

Great Granddaughter

Janai
Muzvidziwa

Great Granddaughter

Sophia
Forsyth

Great Granddaughter

Josiah
Muzvidziwa

Great Grandson

Clara
Phillips

Great Granddaughter

Timilehin
Phillips

Great Grandson

Temilorun
Taiwo

Great Grandson

Zirachi
Esinaulo

Great Granddaughter

Tamilore
Phillips

Great Grandson

Ziorammachi
Esinaulo

Great Granddaughter

Ijaola Ladapo Sowemimo 

Christina Ololade Sowemimo

Letitia Sowemimo

Olubukunola Afekare

Children

Oluseun Afekare

Temitope Forsyth

Ayotunde Afekare

Olufemi Muzvidziwa

Olubunmi Phillips

Children

Feyisara Taiwo

Olujimi Phillips

Damilola Phillips

Olabimpe Sowemimo

Children

Christiana Sowemimo

Omotayo Animashaun

Children

Oluwafikayo Esinaulo

Oluwanifemi Animashaun

Oluwakayowa Animashaun

Akinwunmi Sowemimo

Children

Adesola Sowemimo

Oluwafifunmi Sowemimo

Oladapo Sowemimo

Oluwatamilore Sowemimo

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Letitia Sowemimo

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Olubukunola Afekare

Oluseun Afekare

Temitope Forsyth

Ayotunde Afekare

Olufemi Muzvidziwa

Olubunmi Phillips

Feyisara Taiwo

Olujimi Phillips

Damilola Phillips

Olabimpe Sowemimo

Christiana Sowemimo

Omotayo Animashaun

Oluwafikayo Esinaulo

Oluwanifemi Animashaun

Oluwakayowa Animashaun

Akinwunmi Sowemimo

Adesola Sowemimo

Oluwafifunmi Sowemimo

Oladapo Sowemimo

Oluwatamilore Sowemimo

Chief Sir Alfred Sowemimo

Service