In Loving Memory of Mrs. Amaka Josephine Modebe. Beloved Sister, Wife, Mother, Aunty, Niece, Cousin, Friend and Colleague.
Obituary
Born into the Obiofuma Family of Ibuzor, Delta State, Nigeria, and married to Mr. Paul Modebe, Amaka Josephine Modebe was a beacon of light in the lives of all who knew her. As the cherished mother of Bukun Modebe, she leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and profound impact.
Amaka's journey through life was one of grace, compassion, and unwavering dedication to those around her. From her roots in Bendel State University, Ekpoma, where she forged lifelong friendships and cherished memories, to her professional endeavors at Hints Magazine, where she touched the lives of colleagues and readers alike, Amaka radiated warmth and joy wherever she went.
To her friends from Marymount College Agbor and Bendel State University, Ekpoma (Now Edo State University), Amaka was more than just a classmate; she was a confidante, a source of laughter, and a pillar of support through both triumphs and challenges. Her presence brought comfort, and her laughter echoed in the halls of academia, forever etched in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing her.
At Hints Magazine, Amaka's passion for storytelling and her creative spirit shone brightly, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of her colleagues and readers. Her dedication to her craft, coupled with her innate ability to connect with others, made her an invaluable asset to the publication and a beloved presence in the office.
Amaka Josephine Modebe nee Obiofuma was more than just a beautiful soul; she was a guiding light, a source of inspiration, and a source of unwavering love. Her kindness knew no bounds, and her legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were touched by her presence.
Tributes and Memories: This condolence register is dedicated to celebrating the life and legacy of Mrs. Amaka Josephine Modebe. We invite friends, family, colleagues, and all whose lives were touched by Amaka to share their tributes, memories, and messages of love below. Together, let us honor and remember the extraordinary woman who brought so much joy and light into our lives.
May her beautiful soul rest in eternal peace.
Timeline
Gallery
Condolences
Looking through our messages I read something you sent to me that gave me comfort.
“ I just wanted to tell you that I love you. The way everybody’s life has been cut short , you never know when it could be one of us. And if it is one of us I want to at least let you know that I loved and cared about you. “
You lived your life making sure we all felt loved and cared for. To love you and be loved by you was a gift. I know we will continue to feel your love and light forever.
It has been very difficult to believe that Joejoe is no more. It has been even more difficult to write this tribute.
Joejoe and I were friends and classmates at Marymount College and after we graduated, we all went our separate ways. I remained in Agbor and she left to Lagos where her family resided.
We reconnected when I met her in company of her late dad along the corridors of LUTH. He said to me"she hasn't changed, has she and we roared in laughter. That encounter began another phase of our friendship with my frequent visits to her home in Surulere especially when the family moved to Bassie Ogamba.
We became inseparable and went everywhere, Festac, Abule Oja, everywhere. I met her friends and family and mine became hers.
It wasn't a surprise that she became my chief bridesmaid when I got married. After marriage my home became hers and she was always available to babysit my young children. She became their second mother. And then the "gap" of almost 10 years but when we reunited amidst tears, prayer and counselling, an important phase began which I thank God for.
Amaka was a sweet, down to earth, frank, no guile personality. She was kindness personified, a prayerful woman, family oriented. I will miss her childlike innocence, laughter and gold heart.
I sent her a message on the Saturday before she died, I didn't worry when there was no response as I thought it was her usual work schedule. But alas she was gone and who are we to question God. I extend my condolences to uncle Paul her beloved husband, to Ibukun and the larger Obiofuma family.
Joejoe may your soul find eternal rest with the Lord my dear friend and sister.
Adieu Amaka!!! Heaven gained an angel.
Dr Nneka Nnachetta
*Brilliant, Bolstered, and Beautiful!*
It is a privilege to write this tribute to Amaka—a friend, colleague, wife and mother.
I first met Amaka in Benin City in 1989, just as she was deepening her career at HINTS Magazine. She sold her Magazine to us all at the Bendel Broadcasting Service and her Sales abilities and charismatic personality were readily apparent that when she asked me to join her at HINTS Magazine in Lagos, I said yes! Her outstanding career in customer service and her prominent personality at her job in Lagos marked the beginning of our longstanding corporate, professional friendship and collaboration.
She was the Quintessential Queen of Customer Service and she was always supporting everyone on the team without hesitation. As Manager, Corporate Affairs, I gleaned so much from her gift of innovative thinking, visionary spirit, and unwavering patience required to successfully lead her meaningful stay at HINTS.
In addition to her devotion to her work, Amaka always found time for her colleagues, his friends, and his family and that was huge camaraderie and magic.
Long after our careers at HINTS ended, I met Amaka again in New York when my brother, Paul Abolo and I, and unknowingly to me, visited her home in Queens, New York. I was shocked to find our HINTS HERO married to my friend, Onochie, and believe me, the amazing essence and the giving spirit of Amaka, and her selfless generosity we're still evident. She treated us to a sumptuous, soulfully served meal and we laughed all day. Words, even the very best of words, cannot pay my tribute or truly capture the sense of loss I feel. To live in the hearts of those you love is not to die. Adieu Amaka and Commiseration, my friend, Paul Onochie Modebe! Chukwu ka mali, Nwenem!
May your gentle soul rest in perfect peace.
My children couldn't believe you've gone because they still remember the time we all came to spend two weeks holidays with you guys and we were very well taken care of by you.
I will never forget those beautiful smiles from you anytime we chat on the phone and on video and Paul will remind you that we are rivals.
Still like a dream.,!! Heaven has gained another beautiful Angel, I miss you but God loves you more and it's hard for me to say Good night and may your gentle soul rest in peace.
To my lovely cousin Paul and children, I am sending healing prayers and comfort during this tough time. May your happy memories give you peace and comfort during this challenging time. Take care and God bless.
Amaka, whom I used to call my darling wife, because she gave pawpaw a very Happy life. She was a burbling wife full of energy, face always beaming with smile. No dull moment. She was a very caring and loving wife. She over pampered me when I was in their home for a short holiday.
Amaka,the memory of my brief stay with you can never be forgotten. You were very warm, jovial and kind.
You have completed your God's assignment here on earth and have to return to your creator, so I bid you good bye,till that Resurrection morning when we shall meet and to part no more. Sleep and rest well in the busom of the Lord. I love ❤ you but God loves you more my darling wife Amaka.
She welcomed us and entertained us very well. We related with one another as if we had known for ages.
Brother please take heart and be strong for Bukun.
May the Almighty grant her eternal rest. Amen.
We never met but your husband is like an uncle to me and was a mentor and great support to me and my family growing up in Lagos. I know you enriched his life and built a great home and family together and I pray those memories will bring some solace in due time.
May your soul rest in God's perfect peace. And may God give your family and love ones the strength to bear your loss.
May the Lord grant you eternal rest and may perpetual light shine upon you ✨️ 🙏🏽
I never dreamed, nor could I imagine that I would get to this day. A day when my heart would be broken because you’ve transitioned to a better place.
A symbol of grace, strength and tenacity. You were a warrior, a fighter, a queen, with a heart of gold and a spirit so keen you touched every soul.
You played a different role in so many lives: You were a mother, a sister, a treasure of a friend but most of all a caregiver with a love that knew no prejudice.
You were a leader, a beacon of faith, a guide, with such joy that shone so brightly from the inside.
You were a spark, a flame, a light, a rose, a stargazer lily, an enchanting bloom, with a beauty that will forever be etched in stone.
You were a treasure, a rare gem, a work of art, and in your presence, I always felt so full at heart.
You were a balance of fire and ice, and everything in between.
You helped others compassionately and you lived your life passionately.
No matter what, the love everyone has for you is one. Ask anyone, they'll tell you the same; you brought joy when there was pain. Your strength and love held us together even now more than ever. What you’ve given to this world is irreplaceable.
So, here is to you, amazing woman of grace. A symbol of love and power.
May your light continue to inspire, and your memories be cherished forever.
You have showcased your bravery and resolve in the face of adversity.
You didn’t live a life that mattered accidentally. You chose to be a phenomenal human being.
So, cheers to you for being exemplary.
Salute to you for leaving a wonderful blueprint of humility and courage.
I pray you can inspire the rest of us to do the same.
Always in our thoughts, forever in our hearts. Sleep in heavenly peace.
With All My Love,
Your Angel DJ
I will never forget the times we shared in school..long nights with lots of Gist and laughter in the dorm...you will be greatly missed...I will never forget you....
Farewell my friend..Thank you for the life we shared..I will hold on to the good memories...your smile and laughter brightens the day I miss you already..it's so hard to say goodbye...
God has you in his keeping, we have you in our hearts. Sleep on Beautiful Jojo.
Sadly missed, never forgotten, always in our hearts.
OUR NUGGET OF PURE GOLD
The news of your passing to the great beyond, came as a severe shock. We never dreamt your death so near.Only those who love, can feel the pain of parting with you, without a farewell.You were gentle and
meek, but, strong and tough, steadfast and courageous. You were a God fearing person, beautiful in and out, loving, friendly, and generous. I will always remember how we talked about old times, family and fashion. Ho, how I will miss all that and more. You were a Nugget of pure Gold.You were always so full of joy, and you brought so much love to everyone around you.
The battle is fought ,the victory won. Faithful servant of God, enter thy Master's kingdom.
We will forever miss you and cherish your memories.
Fare well our Nugget of Pure Gold.
Sir Mike & Lady Beatrice Esedebe
I met her in 1989 as a young Ast Marketing manager at Wiggin Teape in Agbara when she wanted to order some wedding cards. I was solely responsible for that transaction and we became friends because I was able to get her a deal and we delivered on time. She was an editor back then with Hints. Then I moved to run our family business Osiquip Nigeria Limited the foremost Office and Banking Automation Company in Nigeria before leaving in the mid 90s for the US and we never saw again. Great woman with a beautiful soul. Our loss, Heaven's gain. She will be greatly missed. Be comforted my brother Chudi. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your entire family.
Manny Osifo.
Los Angeles, California.
Amaka was beautiful in and out, she was honest, unpretentious and unassuming. Amaka's Smile/Laughter can melt even the hardest of hearts.
Amaka was fun to be with.
A subtle prayer warrior.
I know yours is a Transition to Heaven because you were an Angel. God bless your soul Amaka my sister,my friend and my gist partner continue resting in the Lord until that Glorious morning when we shall meet to part no more. You are forever in my heart and I love so much even in death.
MRS AMAKA JOJO MODEBE LIVES ON
Fondly
Uche Onya
Aunty Ojodu was more than just a sister-in-law; she was a beacon of light in our lives. Her warmth, kindness, and unwavering support touched everyone she encountered. Her infectious laughter filled every room she entered, bringing joy to those around her.
She was a pillar of strength for her family, always there with a listening ear and heartfelt advice. Her love knew no bounds, and her generosity knew no limits. Whether it was lending a helping hand or offering words of encouragement, Aunty Ojodu always gave her all without hesitation.
Her absence leaves a void that cannot be filled, but her memory will live on in our hearts forever. Let us take comfort in the cherished moments we shared with her and the legacy of love and kindness she leaves behind.
Though she may no longer be with us in body, her spirit will continue to guide and inspire us. As we mourn her loss, let us also celebrate the beautiful life she lived and the profound impact she had on all who knew her.
Aunty Ojodu, you may have left this world too soon, but your spirit will live on in the hearts of all who loved you. Rest in peace, dear sister, knowing that you will be deeply missed and fondly remembered for eternity. Heaven gained an angel.
The date has been set and the posters are out. The reality of the devastating news hits even harder. And they say it is time to write a few words of farewell...it is so hard.
Amaka was a large part of my life as we worked together - evolving a new reading culture in Nigeria while cultivatng relationships that were as tight as blood ties. Amaka was my friend ... and for over three decades, with the seas and oceans between us and communication rather epileptic lately, she still remained my greatly loved friend.
In those our years of working together, I admired her, enjoyed her company immensely and like everyone that really knew her, I loved her deeply. She was my confidante and a huge support system. She made True Tales a home and fostered camaraderie while we did business. She was beautiful, full of life, full of laughter and quick to pay compliments... please she even told me that I have beautiful legs; that could only have been seen through thick goggles of love. She was like that.
It is sad that what I pen now is a farewell but it is the way of life and we accept it.
Words are not enough to say how terribly the news of your demise hit me Amy. I always expected a time of meeting, to share updates with loads of gists and laughter. To reconnect as we always do.
Well....
Go on peace my darling. May God comfort all of us who love you. May He tenderly tend your family. May He provide the succour they need and favour them abundantly... so you will rest well there.
Farewell Amy...heaven has gained one great person, again.
CHIDINMA AWA AGWU
I remember with nostalgia my visit to Hints where i had friends like Toni Kan, Reginald Ebere, and Sonny Okim. During those visits, I was struck by the grace and confidence of the beautiful MD of Hints.
Now, as you journey to meet your maker, I offer my condolences to the Obiofuma and Modebe family. May your soul find peace in its final rest.
I remember you with fondness and I am saddened by your passing. Na nu do!
Toni Kan
Shock is an understatement on the receipt of news of your death.
You were an embodiment of inside and outward beauty. You were such a caring person, and I will never forget your visits to me in the university once you were in the vicinity. Your interest in making sure I secured a good job and your encouraging words of telling me I had all it took. Yes, your kindness cannot be forgotten I cherish my last personal physical interaction with you at your home when as always being thoughtful you invited the entire family to have lunch at your home after a family wedding in New York which I flew in for. The memories will remain with me forever, your laughter, jokes and ensuring we all had so much to eat and drink. My deep condolences to your dear husband and daughter as I also ask God to console them and those of us you left behind. May Angels lead you home to rest externally in the Bosom of our Lord Jesus Christ. You are greatly missed but I trust you are with the Lord. Continue to rest in Peace. From Lizzy Idigbe
You were that to me, and a formidable boss! You were a force by sheer presence, yet you were a girly girl, whose laughter was rich and heartfelt and whose smile lit up a room.The last time we spoke, l saw another side of you. You were just a mum and a friend, exchanging stories of Motherhood. You couldn't imagine life without your little one. Your joy was palpable! It is with great sadness and shock that l receive this news of your passing! My heart goes out to your closest and dearest but l know you lived and loved to the fullest, left a legacy of love that will sustain them in your absence! You live on in the hearts of many! Gone but never to be forgotten! Remembering you with fondness,
Grace
Three epithets come to me as I recall our days in Hints: Effervescent, Vivacious and Soulful. She was like a cherry blossom in open display: you could feel the soulfulness with which she laughed and poured out her emotions even many metres away.
Surely, we'll miss your ringing laughs, most especially those to whom you were closest. But we'll be comforted as we remember you by the joy you so easily radiated.
Adieu, Amaka. May heavenly hosts receive you with open arms into the matchless beauty of heaven. Amen.
Chim Newton, writer and morality advocate.
Our paths crossed way back in February 1989 at Inabere Street,Lagos.
Gabriel Uwem Akpan and I went to join other newly recruited staff of True Tales Publications Ltd, publishers of Hints and Chanelle magazines. That was my first visit to Hints magazine's office.
I had my reservations because I the office was tucked in the popular Isaleko neighborhood. Immediately we got to the reception, I saw an extremely delectable beautiful young lady who sat at as though she was the receptionist. All my doubt about the organization disappeared. That was the power of Amaka's personality. It is sobering to say the least, that I am writing a tribute to our beautiful Amaka. This once more underscores the temporal nature of our existence. Life is indeed a fleeting moment.
However, during my five years stay as a staff, our relationship was more of adversarial than cordial. Albeit this, I came to appreciate her warmth, her kindness, friendliness and child-like nature.
When my mother died, it was the company policy for staffers not to use official vehicle for private purpose. She was then the Managing Editor, she approved and allowed me to use my official vehicle.
When I resigned from TTPL, Amaka was on my case, she encouraged me to keep pushing and approved for my firm to be the official freight agent for TTPL.
We related very well after I left Hints.
Amaka was extremely, a loyal friend. She believed in the efficacy of friendship, she helped and supported her friends. She would stick out her neck and go the extra mile to help her friends.
She was vivacious, gregarious and playful, if she considered you a friend.
Amaka was a workaholic, she did extremely well as the head of advert department. She had presence. She used her personal charm and the enchantment her beauty bestowed on her to pull magical figures for TTPL.
Even though I have not seen her for a long time, I have always asked after her and looked forward to seeing her, alas, not any more.
We will miss her compassion, her friendship, her laughter and camaraderie.
I console the Modebe family, her son and indeed, the Obiofuma family.
A lady of unparalleled beauty, inside and out, Amaka was the Managing Editor and CEO of True Tales Publication—one of the creative minds behind Hints Magazine, Chanelle Magazine, and Hints Thrills and Boom Non-Abridged Magazine. She was not just a colleague but a friend, a confidante, a beacon of inspiration who illuminated the path for many of us at TTPL.
Amaka graced the inaugural edition of Hints Magazine as a model, not by virtue of her position but solely due to her radiant beauty. A testament to her humility and grace, she wore her achievements like an unseen crown, letting her work speak volumes about her persona.
Often misunderstood, Amaka was the epitome of compassion, friendliness, and love. Her kindness was as infectious as her spirit was indomitable. As a senior management member alongside her, I, Dotun Olukoya, had the privilege of witnessing her finesse and dedication firsthand. Our roles intertwined us in the intricate dance of meeting the relentless demands of magazine publishing in an analog world, and our camaraderie was a constant source of strength and motivation.
Three decades may have passed since our paths diverged, but the news of her untimely departure left me engulfed in a profound sense of loss. Though our paths had not crossed in recent years, the memory of her remained as vivid as it was during our time at TTPL, where I served as the Group Design and Production Manager.
Amaka's departure is not just a loss, but the end of an era. Her legacy, however, continues to inspire us. She may not be with us in person, but her spirit is forever etched in our hearts. To say she will be missed is an understatement.
In remembrance of Amaka, let us celebrate her life, her journey, and the woman she was. Let us honor her memory by carrying forward the values she stood for. A tribute to her is a tribute to the essence of humanity—a celebration of love, kindness, and resilience.
Rest in peace, dear Amaka! You have left this world, but you will never leave our hearts.
- Dotun Olukoya
Houston, Texas
I Learnt with shock and sadness the transition of Amaka Josephine Modebe,Nee Obiofuma . Since settling down to the reality of that happenstance I have clung on to a few descriptive phraseologies to allow me understand why God would call back Amaka so soon and so suddenly.
First was that it was a TRANSITION. It had to be nothing else. She was transiting to heaven with the blessings God imbued her with. On earth she was by attitude and soul an ANGEL. Angels don’t die, they transition to a higher plane. And most times they transit young not old.
Second was the word HOLY. Her transition happened in the holiest of periods in the Christian calendar .. the pre ultimate week to Easter and God must have chosen her specially to accompany Christ on this year’s anniversary of that holy voyage of transition
Third was the word ANGELIC. For all who interacted with Amaka, family, friends, colleagues and acquaintances , we all
Got enamored by the purity of her soul, the honesty of her disposition, the clarity of her thoughts and actions, the unpretentiousness of her friendships ,the loud crackles of her laughter , the simplicity of her beauty and the totality of her commitment to any cause she chose. She was indeed an Angel.
In 1989 when I assembled a crop of young talents to premier what became the most celebrated romance and soft sell publication of that era her leadership and collaborative skills shined like a million stars . She became the leader and chief executive officer at a very young age and helped grow a collection of young leaders who became stars in their own rights.
Today that pool and many more who knew Amaka mourn her.
Finally the word IMPACT. It is often wisely postulated that it is not the number of one’s years on earth that matters but the impact of one’s presence here that matters. And that’s so right. If anyone ever met Amaka in her life time and didn’t feel the impact, then such one lacked impact receptors in their body biology. Amaka made an impact on everyone she met , no matter how brief that meeting was.
So on the occassion of her transition we all,
friends ,family and acquaintances should Ofcourse MOURN our loss, for it is a monumental loss; but above all we should CELEBRATE her life, an exemplary life at that.
May God lead her safely home.
Prof ibe kachikwu SJD Harvard, DPhil, DBA
Former Minister of state Petroleum Nigeria
Former President OPEC , APPO,
GECF
Former GMD NNPC
You were beautiful in and out. You lit all interactions with your lovely smile.
May your soul rest in God's loving arms.
Goodbyes are not forever... Goodbyes are not the end. They simply mean you'll be sorely missed till we meet again.
With throbbing nostalgia, I recall our days at HINTS magazine, when your mere presence often lit up the corridors and offices and also evoked infectious joy and excitement.
You were a beacon of love, joy and hope.
If there is reincarnation, please be my friend and colleague again. For now, journey well...
-Kayode Ajala, ex HINTS.
Rest on in the bosom of our Lord my sister from another mother.
So sad to bid you farewell but who are we to question His work and time?
Adieu Amaka Modebe (Nee Obiofuma).
I have lost a sister and a kindred spirit. This wasn't the re-connection I had envisaged after so many years. I'm going to miss that warm smile, telepathic touch/compassion, all round radiating goodness.
You ran the race, you kept the faith. God be with you, Amaka.
Rest in peace, in the bosom of our Lord.
My dear sister, Amaka, was not just a presence in our lives; she was the very heartbeat of our family. Her unwavering love, boundless compassion, and tireless dedication to ensuring the well-being of everyone around her were the cornerstones of her beautiful soul. Amaka had a remarkable gift for nurturing those she loved. Whether it was through her comforting embrace, her soothing words of wisdom, or the countless acts of kindness she performed without hesitation, she had an innate ability to make each of us feel cherished and valued.
She carried the weight of our family's joys and sorrows with grace and strength, her warm smile a beacon of hope even in the darkest of times. Amaka's presence was a constant source of comfort, her love an ever-flowing river that nourished our spirits and souls. The void left by her absence is unfathomable, for no words can adequately capture the depth of the loss we feel. The warmth of her embrace, the sound of her laughter, the gentleness of her touch—these are treasures we hold dear in our hearts, now and forevermore.
Though she may no longer walk beside us, her spirit lives on in the countless lives she touched with her kindness and love. Her legacy of compassion will continue to inspire us to be better, to love harder, and to cherish every moment we are blessed to share with those we hold dear.
Rest in eternal peace, my beloved sister. Your absence leaves a void that can never be filled, but your love will guide us through the darkness until we meet again. You will be missed more than words can express, but your memory will live on in our hearts forever.
With all my love,
Chudi
Service
We will come together to remember and pay tribute to Amaka Josephine Modebe, our dearly beloved wife, sister, mother, aunt, friend and colleague.
While we mourn the loss of our dear Amaka, we also aim to cherish the moments shared and the joy brought into our lives. Your presence would mean a great deal to us during this time of remembrance and reflection.
Signed
Mr. Paul Onochie Modebe
For the Family