“Jesus said to her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die.'”
John 11:25-26
Obituary
Mrs. Irene Araba Koram, née Wright, affectionately known as Araba, was born on September 4, 1956, to the late Mr. G. C. Wright and Miss Beatrice Aikins. Irene passed away peacefully on March 30, 2025, at the age of 68, leaving behind a legacy of warmth, faith, and dedication.
Irene's early years were marked by her educational journey, which began at the age of five at All Saints Anglican School in Yaba, Lagos. A brilliant student, she consistently excelled in her studies, garnering the admiration of her teachers. In 1969, she concluded her primary education and moved to Accra, where she attended Accra High School. There, her academic and leadership qualities shone brightly, as she was appointed Girls’ Senior Prefect. After completing her G.C.E. O-Level exams in 1975, she traveled to England to further her education.
In England, Irene pursued a career in healthcare. She earned her State Registered Nursing Certificate and went on to study midwifery in Hertfordshire. In 1984, she enrolled at Suffolk College to train as a Health Visitor, a profession she embraced with compassion and commitment until her retirement. Ever the lifelong learner, Irene earned a Law degree from Anglia Ruskin University in 2019, demonstrating her unwavering resilience and love for knowledge.
Araba was known for her warm, magnetic personality and steadfast faith in God. Her gentle smile and kind spirit left a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. In August 1989, Irene married Mr. Herbert Kofi Koram, who had admired her devoted spirit from afar.
Irene’s life was firmly anchored in her Christian faith. Her conversations often featured words of scripture and encouragement, as she inspired others with her integrity and unwavering beliefs. Her devotion to God's work was a testament to her character and the depth of her faith.
She celebrated her 68th birthday in 2024 surrounded by family and friends who cherished her dearly. Araba is survived by her beloved husband, two children, and four grandchildren, who will carry on her legacy of love and faith.
**"You have fought the good fight, you have run the race. Now, there is laid up for you the crown of righteousness."**
**Well done, good and faithful servant. Enter into the joy of your Master.**
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Mrs. Koram was a remarkable individual who touched the hearts of many throughout her life. Personally she has been a great impact in my life with knowledge, and wisdom. She was known for her kindness, unwavering support, and dedication to her community and Church family. Her giving, warmth, wisdom and advice inspired those around her, and her legacy will continue to live on in the memories of her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.
As we remember Mrs. Irene Koram, let us celebrate the impact she had on our lives and the love she shared. Her spirit, smile, will surely be missed, but her contributions will be cherished and honored by all who were fortunate to cross her path. May her memory be a source of comfort and strength for everyone affected by her loss.
Fare thee well, you will be sorely missed. May your soul rest in perfect peace, rest well in the bosom of the Lord.
You wore your hats like heaven’s crown,
With style and poise that won’t back down.
A Sunday queen in colours bold,
Your heart was warm, your spirit gold.
Your hat tipped just right, in perfect sway,
Still showing us God’s gentle way.With grateful hearts, we walk. Still carrying all the love you sowed
You’d hum a hymn, then smile so wide,
With faith and family by your side.
A gentle touch, a guiding hand,
You helped us all to understand.
We thank God for the gift you were,
For every lesson, every word.
Your kindness lingered, strong and deep,
A treasure we will always keep.
Your love was stitched in every thread,
In prayers, you whispered, tears you shed.
“She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.” — Proverbs 31:25
Though now you rest in skies above,
We feel your grace. We feel your love.
And every time a breeze turns sweet,
It’s you, still walking down the street—
Thank you, Auntie, for all you gave—
For love, for strength, for how you stayed.
You live in us, both near and far—
Our steady light, our morning star.
Do not forget us, as you soar,
And always remember to pray with angels for us, as you did before.
You’re with us still, in every prayer—
Your love and faith forever there.💓🙏🏾
Linda
1 Thessalonian 4: 13 reminds us that as Christians we mourn the loss of a loved one, but we live with the hope that we will see them again in glory. The following tributes show the high regard that Irene was held in by colleagues who viewed her as a friend.
When I first heard of Irene’s passing my mind went blank, I had not seen her for many years and then memories flooded back. I first met Irene when we worked in the health visiting service initially Tower Hamlets and then in Hackney. We became friends when we did our master’s degree at City University supporting each other by studying and revising together with Faith, particularly when we did the Research module. I remember Irene’s lovely big eyes, her smile, and the love she had for her family particularly her children Margaret and Joshua. One piece of advice she gave me was that no meal was complete without rice!
Marcia
My memory of Irene was an easy going and helpful person. Her knowledge of the HV service and it's needs were phenomenal. Working with her was like working with a friend who would support you through difficult times. That's not to say she wouldn't voice her own opinion if she felt it was needed but she always made her thoughts known with the services best interest at heart. She was a valued member of the team. She will be sorely missed
Monica
I have warm memories of Irene. Our first meeting was at a job interview we both applied for. We bonded then and support each other as new managers in the team. She was a Friend as well as colleague. She was kind and emotionally intelligent. She will be sorely missed She was a sharp dresser our Irene, fashion savvy
Chrispina
I remember Irene's ever ready smile. I also recall that, we bonded as managers over shared experiences of putting our hands up for a visit or a clinic when the team was short. She was a well -rounded health visitor who took her work seriously and insisted on practising to a high standard. It's sad to speak of her in the past tense, but I'm comforted that she had a strong faith which will be rewarded at the Resurrection. She is at rest. My condolences to her family.
Thelma Gage
I first met Irene in the late 1990s when we were both studying for our MSc in Nursing at City University. During that time, she was a great source of encouragement, particularly in inspiring me to pursue a career in Health Visiting. We worked together in Tower Hamlets before both moving on to Hackney. Irene had a generous and caring nature—she was always looking out for others, and her kindness truly left a mark. I cherish the memories of our conversations and laughter after Senior Managers meetings, especially our walks through the back streets of Hackney on our way to grab lunch. Irene will be deeply missed. She was not only a colleague but also a dear friend.
Irene was a believer in Christ. The hope is truly death does not have a final say in the life of a Christian. Until then rest well, Irene, till that resurrection morning!
Faith
Sincere condolences to Irene’s family -you may be gone from this world, but you are present with the Lord – Rest In Eternal Peace until we all meet again.
I knew Mrs Koran from about 2012 to 2014 in church her gentleness and charming smile captivated me. Always carrying herself and walking with dignity, she knew who she was in Christ.
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