Deacon Ayodele Kolawole Anthony Ajao

Tribute To My Father

My dad was a strong and hardworking man who believed deeply in education. He made sure all his children had the opportunity to learn, grow, and become better, because he wanted a brighter future for us. He worked tirelessly, often putting his family first, even when it wasn’t easy. Beyond his strength and dedication, he was a good father who showed love through his actions, sacrifices, and guidance. His lessons, values, and presence will stay with us forever. Though he is no longer here, the life he built for his children is his greatest legacy, and we will carry him in our hearts always.

Rest peacefully, Father
Your son
Ajao Abiola

Tribute to My Dad

Dad, you were more than a father—you were my strength, my guide, and my greatest supporter. You carried your responsibilities with quiet courage and loved your family with a heart that expected nothing in return. Your sacrifices, many of which we may never fully know, shaped who we are today.

You taught us the value of hard work, integrity, and perseverance, not just with words but by the way you lived your life. Your advice, your discipline, and your laughter will forever echo in our hearts. Even in silence, your presence brought comfort and assurance.

Though your departure has left a deep void, we are grateful for the memories we shared, the lessons you left behind, and the love that will never fade. You may be gone from our sight, but never from our hearts.

Rest peacefully, Dad. Your legacy lives on through us, and you will always be loved, remembered, and honored
Your daughter
Temitope omobolanle Ajao

A Tribute to My Beloved Husband

My beloved husband,
Your departure has left a silence that words can never fully explain. You were more than a husband to me—you were my friend, my strength, my safe place, and my greatest blessing. Loving you was easy, and being loved by you was a gift I will forever cherish.

You lived a life of purpose, kindness, and quiet strength. Your laughter filled our home, your wisdom guided our family, and your love held us together even in difficult times. You taught us the meaning of commitment, patience, and selfless love.

Though death has taken you from our sight, it can never take you from our hearts. Your memories live on in every smile, every lesson you taught, and every life you touched. I find comfort in knowing that you lived well, loved deeply, and left a legacy that will never fade.

Rest peacefully, my love. Until we meet again, you will always remain alive in my heart.
Your wife
Olubunmi kehinde Ajao

To you my brother and friend

May the Lord Almighty continue to be with the family you left behind.

You are the best brother one could ask for; you were enthusiastic and full of energy and always protective.

I loved the way you cared for us all, brother. It’s the part we are going to miss the most. The laughter you brought to the family and the happiness you spread.

May the Lord Almighty be with the family, friends and colleagues who are grieving this loss.

London Barber as we used to call you...our path crossed in the early 70s in Bacita at nisuco primary school. You were such a lively and fun to be with guy. Your demise is so hard to accept. May your soul rest in peace.

UNQUESTIONABLE YOU ARE THE LORD.
In the book of Ecclesiastes Chapter 3: vs 1&2;
”For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven: a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted”

Brother Ayo, “Across the bridge there's no more sorrow, across the bridge there's no more pain. The sun will shine across the river and you'll never be unhappy again”

Your demise from this sinful world was unbelievable as we hoped with our prayers that you will get over your health challenges soonest. Your journey in this sinful world was short but impactful and God knows why. OYE OLORUN JU ENIYAN LO. But continue to rest in the bosom of the Lord as we have consolation that you were a child of God and a devoted Christian while alive.

To us as a family, you were a library full of fresh wisdom, knowledge and general updates to tap from, but no more. "Vanity upon vanity, all is vanity." Ecclesiastes1:2.
Egbon Ayo ACCOUNT ACROSS must have seen Egbon Kunle- MEDICAL ACROSS, their codes in the mid 80s at Poly Ibadan-Iree Satellite Campus then.
He was generous to all and no dull moment being around him as a brother, uncle, friend, mentor and partner in progress.
His humility, love, smiling face coupled with readiness to help will always be forever in our hearts and memories.
We will always cherish the nice times we spent together at Wakajaiye, Iree, Osogbo, Igbajo, Oka-Akoko, Owo, Gbagi-sawmil, Isajin-Oyindamola, Erunmu, Bacita etc.”Home away from home”.

"You have fought a good fight, you have finished the race, you have kept the faith." 2 Timothy 4:7.

As a close family friend for over six decades from SDA Nursing School, Ile-Ife through our late fathers of the blessed memory (Elder D. D. Ajao and Pa. S. A. Faniran), Brother Ayo’s full name speaks volume in our own opinion as stated below;

He was an Accomplished leader, a Young at heart individual, an Optimistic and positive thinker, a Distinguished and dedicated accountant, an Energetic and active senior civil servant, a Lovely husband, an Exceptional human being (AYODELE)
An Accommodating father, a Non-Tribalistic person, a Talented team builder, a Hardworking family man, an Organized administrator, a Noble minded individual, a Yoruba atata
(ANTHONY)
A Kind hearted person, an Open minded friend, a Lively man, an Ambassador of love, a Wonderful father, an Original omo Ibadan, a Lover of peace, an Elder of high repute (KOLAWOLE)
An Amiable brother and uncle, a Jovial person, an Adventist believer to the core, an Outstanding personality (AJAO).

Brother Ayo, You came, you saw and you conquered.
May God grant Deacon Ayodele Anthony Kolawole Ajao eternal rest in Jesus name. Amen.
May God console and support his wife, children, siblings and family left behind in Jesus name. Amen.
Sun n ree o o o, Brother AYO.
From the Fanirans, Igbajo. Osun-state.

To my dear Brother & Friend.

Growing up with you since in the 80's @ Niyamco Quarters Bacita together with your siblings . Dr Tunde, Atinuke and Tundun sharing dreams, laughter, kind of bond that only time can create was a gift I will always treasure.

You are a brother in every sense of word, lively, driven and kind.
I remember your School Nickname: London Barber @ Sugar School( Nasuco Staff Primary School).

Your energy and lively spirits made every moment better. The world is a bit dimmer without your light.

Though you are gone, the memories of our childhood & brotherly love on all your junior ones and the man you became will live in my heart forever.

Rest in Peace! Rest well!! My brother Deacon Ayodele Ajao.

In the garden of friendship, some flowers bloom eternally.

Ayo, yours is laughter silenced, but memories that play on...your memories will always remind us what true friendship looked like: kindness, patience, laughter and unwavering support. You made life looked brighter and warmer for those of us lucky enough to be within your orbit. You indeed showed us how to laugh and reach out more freely.

Rest in peace, tranquility and where you worry no more.

My brother in law (and uncle)

My fondest memory will always be my visit to Nigeria with my son, and how you personally came to pick us up and took us straight to the grandparents’ home. Unfortunately, my son became very ill shortly after our arrival, and our first port of call had to be a doctor. He was treated promptly, for which I remain deeply grateful. After that, we were able to visit the grannies and spend precious time with the rest of the family.
I also fondly remember your visit to the UK. You pointed out that my car registration plate read “Nigeria–UK”, something I had never noticed before. From that day on, it helped me remembered my plate number so easily, and it still makes me smile whenever I think of it. I will never forget the way you related so warmly and naturally with my other children, whom you had never met in person, only through photographs. Despite that, the bond, the laughter and the good rapport were immediate, and those memories will remain with us always.
The last time I saw you was online via WhatsApp. You were waving, smiling, and asking after your children – my children. That moment is now etched in my heart. You have been taken from us far too soon. Time has been taken away from us, and the loss feels deeply unfair.
You have gone to sleep, as the Bible says. May the Lord watch over your family, comfort them in their grief, and shelter them in His loving arms.
Good night, Brother.
Until we meet again at Jesus’ second coming.
From your Sister-in-law and children (Nephews)

My Tribute:
In loving memory of my brother, Ayodele Kolawale. He was a cherished member of our family, the family of Elder Oladele Ayo, and our firstborn. He showed a deep sense of responsibility, always caring for our parents and others whenever they needed him. He had a spirit of adventure and loved social gatherings. Our parents often joked about how relieved they were not to name him Agboola, as he had so many circles of friends that it might have been financially demanding for the family.

Above all, I will remember you as a loving brother.

With love,
Your sister,
Atinuke

A TRIBUTE TO MY GOOD FRIEND – AYODELE AJÀO (Alias Bemu)

By Dr Abbey Akinoshun

Today, my heart is heavy as I write this tribute to my childhood friend, former classmate, brother, and confidant, Ayodele Ajao, fondly known as Bemu. He was a true and supportive friend whose place in my life can never be replaced. The memories we shared are too precious to forget, and they will live with me forever.

Bemu, you were genuinely kind, loyal, and full of life. There was never a dull moment around you. I vividly remember our school days when you were in the hostel and would often follow me home just to enjoy amala iya Tiri at our local bukateria. You were so close to my family that my two siblings called you “brother mi,” and my mum was very fond of you until her passing. Those simple moments meant so much.

I remember clearly how, in Form 3, you gave me the nickname “Ojingolo” and proudly turned me into your personal bouncer. You would deliberately taunt or play-fight with classmates who were stronger than you, and once they started chasing you, you would quickly hide behind me, shouting,
“Ojingolo, o ya buga si!”
And if I refused to fight on your behalf, especially when you were clearly at fault, you would scold me in Yoruba, saying:
“Abi iya ń jẹ o ni Ojingolo, mo ni ko buga si. Ori rẹ o da.”

You were such a joy to be around, full of humour, laughter, and mischief. Truly, there was never boredom with you.

I also remember vividly when you invited me to Bacita, Kwara State, in 1984, shortly after we completed our studies at Lagelu Grammar School. Your father, who was one of the top officials at the Sugar Industry, Bacita, welcomed me warmly. That was when I met your parents for the first time. I returned to Ibadan with plenty of goodies and cash, courtesy of your kind and generous parents. That visit left a lasting impression on me.

Years later, when you called me in London to inform me of your father’s passing, I told you I would come all the way from London to attend his burial. You did not believe me until you saw me at the church service. Your surprise was priceless. I told you then that I had to pay him my last respects, considering how graciously he treated me in Bacita many years earlier.

I cherish the memory of when you visited London about ten years ago to see your siblings. I personally picked you up from your junior brother, Dr Tunde’s house, took you sightseeing around London, and later to the Majestic Restaurant and Bar on Coldharbour Lane, Brixton, where we spent the night reminiscing, laughing, and enjoying ourselves like old times.

I made it a point of duty to visit you whenever I came to Nigeria. However, due to the nature of my job, I have not been able to come home as regularly as I used to, and this deeply pained me.

Only last year, while in Nigeria, I shared my frustration with Bazooka about not being able to see you frequently. He advised that on my next visit, he would arrange for a few of our colleagues to join me in visiting you. I embraced the idea wholeheartedly and truly looked forward to seeing you again later this year. Unfortunately, it was not meant to be.

Your passing is even more heartbreaking, coming so soon after the painful loss of your beloved daughter. Truly, life can be cruel.

Ayodele omo Ajao, ore mi tootọ́, o di arìnàkò, o tún di ojú àlá sùn rẹ oooo.
You have journeyed beyond, and you now rest where there is no pain or sorrow.

Sleep well, my dear friend.
May your gentle soul rest in perfect peace.
Adieu.

From your childhood friend,
Dr Abbey Akinoshun
The man you named Ojingolo
Lagelu Grammar School, Ibadan – Class of 1983

Boda Ayo as I foundly called him is a rare gem.I met him at Iree in 80s when he came to poly Ibadan Iree campus.
Egbon is very accomodating ,jovial and a good cook.He is very free with everyone regardless of his or her age.
We lost contact since when he left Iree and we met again in 1999 when I got a job in a bank at osogbo.He quickly told me to come and reside with him even though he was married.I stayed with him till I got by own accommodation ( He wants me to stay with him permanently but by force I got mine and he was not happy with me.This is boda Ayo for you.) Boda Ayo is loving,kind ,I can't express who you have being to me on a page of paper
My wife and I will miss you . greatly
Sleep till resurrection day.
O daro sir
Elder Babajide olusola

😔 Rest in peace, Uncle AJAO AYODELE Anthony! 😢 Your strength, courage, and unwavering spirit have left a lasting impact on our family and everyone you touched. Your legacy of resilience and love will continue to inspire us 💪. You may be gone, but your memories and the values you instilled in us will forever remain 🏛️. Condolences to the family 🙏.

Buoda mi as I fondly used to call him was such a peaceful and friendly person 😢

Rest in peace, Buoda Ayo 🙏. Your life was a beautiful melody 🎶 that harmonized love, wisdom, and laughter 😂. Your legacy lives on through the countless hearts you've touched 🤗.

I am trying to accept the reality of events prior to your demise. Ayo, it is painful that you have to answer the call of your creator at this moment that the family needed you most. Our consolation is that we shall meet at resurrection morning. Adieu my brother!

Hurt him once, Ayo wd still come back to you 10x.
He was a natural addict of cheerful spirits.
Demise of a jolly hearted fellow like Ayo Ajao, was a pathetic & painful end!
My tears are building up but not dropping! But I feel pains in my eyes & heavy grief ladden on my heart ❤️.

While alive, for like 8yrs, he was cut off communication. I hv missed him long b4 his death cos, from then, .... I cdnt talk to him again.

The health challenges upon him were so much beyond what bear flesh cd bear.
He went through painful persecutions for only what God knows why!

His death was a call out of physical discomfort into spiritual final comfort.

Our God is unquestionable.
May God grant him & all our departed souls peaceful eternity.
From your best friend
Ezra oderinde.

CONDOLENCE MESSAGE TO DEACON AYODELE AJAO, LAGSOBA 1983 SET.

On behalf of the National President of Lagelu Grammar School Old Boys’ Association (LAGSOBA), Amb. Chief Adewale Abass Kadri, MBA, FCIIN, FCCA, GAIC, the National Executive Council, and the entire LAGSOBA family worldwide, we extend our profound, heartfelt, and solemn condolences on the painful and irreplaceable loss of our dear brother, Deacon Ayodele Kolawole Anthony Ajao of the prestigious 1983 Set.

The passing of Deacon Ajao on the 7th of January 2026, after a brief illness, is a monumental loss not only to his immediate family but to his set, the LAGSOBA family, his friends, professional colleagues, and all whose lives were touched by his rare warmth, infectious enthusiasm, and exemplary character. He was a man of uncommon vitality, admirable dedication, and remarkable interpersonal grace, whose presence illuminated every gathering and whose contributions left enduring impressions wherever he served.

Ayodele Ajao was the embodiment of love, unity, and service. From his formative years through his professional journey, he distinguished himself as a committed team player, a gifted organiser, and a dependable pillar of support. His career progression within the Oyo State Civil Service, culminating in the esteemed position of Director of Finance and Administration, attested to his diligence, competence, and integrity.

We particularly sympathise with the Chairman and distinguished members of the LAGSOBA 1983 Set, who have lost a central figure and binding force within their fold. The entire LAGSOBA family mourns with you, standing united in grief and remembrance.

We also acknowledge, with deep emotion, the touching tribute rendered by his beloved friend turned brother, Dr. Abbey Akinoshun, who poignantly described the late Ayodele Ajao as a loyal, joyful, and ever-supportive companion whose friendship spanned decades, enriched by shared childhood memories, unwavering brotherhood, and an unbreakable bond that transcended distance and time.

Our hearts go out in a very special way to his beloved wife, Mrs. Kehinde Ajao, his children, Tope and Abiola, and all members of his immediate family. Words remain inadequate to console you in this moment of profound sorrow, especially in light of the recent tragedy your family endured. We pray that the Almighty God grants you divine comfort, uncommon strength, and the fortitude to bear this heavy loss.

As an association, we celebrate a life well lived — a life of laughter, loyalty, service, and impact. Though Ayodele Ajao has transitioned from our midst, his legacy of joy, friendship, and commitment to humanity will forever remain etched in our collective memory.

May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace, and may perpetual light shine upon him.

Signed,

Engr. Morenikeji Ayoola Osuolale, MNSE, COREN
National General Secretary
For:
Amb. Chief Adewale Abass Kadri, MBA, FCIIN, FCCA, GAIC
National Executive Council
Lagelu Grammar School Old Boys’ Association (LAGSOBA)

Semper Optimum!.........Always the Best!!

Daddy, though you’ve left us, your kindness, warm smile, and gentle presence remain with us. May your gentle soul continue to rest in perfect peace.

May my oga soul rest in peace I will missed him so much

It's hard to forget someone who gave me so much to remember since our youthful days,very lively and enthusiastic, though the loss is deep,the power of love and friendship will always stay alive, Ore mi atata,rest well,

it's hard to say good bye to egbon Ayo. Your jovial spirit, warm smile, and accommodating heart won us over then, and your memory stays with us now. A friend to all, giver with a cheerful heart and bright presence we'll always miss.
Bro Ayo, your legacy of kindness, laughter, and generosity lives on. Rest well my brother.

Pastor Taye Franklin Igbekele
RCCG, Redemption City.

Tribute to Ayodele Anthony Ajao Transitioned into Glory – 8th January, 2026

This is truly heartbreaking. The news of your passing is painful and difficult to comprehend, leaving our hearts heavy and our words few.

Ayodele, your transition has created a silence that only faith can fill. In this moment of deep loss, we hold firmly to God, the only true comforter and healer of broken hearts.

It is well, because God knows best. It is well, because you have transitioned into glory.

May your soul rest in perfect peace. You will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

Peter Akinlolu Awodiran

My dear classmate Bemu, though we were not particularly close but my encounters with you a few times that we met captured the very essence of your personality. One immediate catch is your warm smile. You ignite our environment whenever you appear and your acceptability and popularity naturally exhudes whenever you enter our arena. You will be sorely missed my dear brother.Our oss is heaven's gain and all i can pray is that your soul rest in perfect peace. Adieu my dear brother.

Ore mi Beemu may your soul rest in perfect peace Amen. Ao ma pade lojo ajinde,

Ayodele Ajao alias Bemu was a well known puy amongst us his class mates in Lagelu Grammar school Ibadan.Nice, compassionate and useful to all and sundry.He would be sorely missed.Rest on ore till we meet to part no more on the resurrection day.May God console those of us he left behind including the immediate and other family members in Jesus name.