Pa David Agboola Morakinyo | 95 years

Daddy, your life was a blessing, your legacy a guiding light. You taught me what it means to be a man of honour, faith, and patience. Thank you for your sacrifices, your love, and your example. You ran your race well and left us with lessons that will outlive generations. Rest in peace, Baba mi, till we meet again.

October 28, 2025.
That date still feels like a pause in a story that was never meant to end.

I have struggled to write this tribute, not because my father lived an ordinary life, but because he lived a life so full that words feel too small to contain it. How do you summarize over fifty-five years of knowing a man who was not just present in your life, but commanding in it—by courage, by truth, by love?

My father was a courageous man. Bold. Unapologetic. He was never afraid to speak the truth, no matter whose ox was gored. Where others cowered, he stood. Where silence was safer, he chose clarity. He carried this fearlessness into his place of work, into family matters, into everyday conversations. He believed that truth, even when uncomfortable, was a form of service.

Yet this same man was deeply loving and accommodating. He was a pillar—quietly holding up the extended family within the limits of his means, but with no limits to his heart. I remember being constantly in tow with him, visiting extended family relations in Ibadan, moving from one compound to another, one story to another. From his mother’s side in Ipetumodu—the Babasanyas and the Morakinyos—to his father’s side, particularly the Akintola-Morakinyo-Olaawo lineage. Everywhere we went, he belonged. Everywhere we went, he was welcomed.

Then there was his love for music. Ah—music. He didn’t just listen to it; he inhabited it. The volume would go all the way up, unapologetically loud. He whistled along with the rhythm, sometimes punctuating the song with intermittent “brakes,” as though he were conducting an invisible orchestra. Being with him was never dull. He was fun. He was joy.

And he was hilarious.

I once thought that only we—his nuclear family—understood how funny he was. Then I watched grown men and women cackle with laughter when he spoke to them. His humor was effortless, woven into his storytelling, his observations, his timing. He was also an orator. When he spoke, people listened—held bound, suspended, unwilling to miss a single word.

I remember countless times he returned from his out-post plantations, working with the old Western Region agricultural plantations in technical roles, ensuring that mills and transportation systems functioned as they should. Each return home at Odo-Ona, Ibadan came with stories—rich, detailed, animated. And once he began, the story could not be interrupted. If someone was sent on an errand mid-tale, my father would pause the story entirely, refusing to continue until the person returned. Such was the gravity of his narration. Such was the respect he had for his audience.

He loved all his children—and the younger ones who orbited around him—with an intensity that was both firm and tender. One of my earliest memories of him is from Primary 1 or 2 at CKC Primary School. He dressed me in my school uniform that morning. After tucking it in neatly, he noticed I had raised one shoulder awkwardly in my gait. Gently—almost ceremonially—he pressed it down and corrected my posture. Even then, he was teaching me how to stand in the world.

He taught me how to drive at a very tender age, sneaking me into driving lessons meant for my older brother. Pillows were stacked on the seat so I could see over the steering wheel. That was my father—preparing you for tomorrow long before you realized today had arrived.

Education mattered deeply to him. He was almost obsessed with it. At first, he wanted me to study Mechanical Engineering. Later, after hearing the story of one of his late in-laws who succeeded after studying Economics, he changed his mind. His decisions were never rigid; they were thoughtful, informed, and always aimed at a better future for his children.

Since his passing, I have not been able to cry. Perhaps that surprises some. But the truth is this: I am satisfied. We had the best time together. There are no major regrets—only gratitude.

I will never forget taking him on an airplane for the first time, flying him to Durban, South Africa, to be with my family. The wonder of that experience never left him. He spoke of it glowingly, even on his deathbed. He bonded deeply with his grandchildren, met our friends, and tasted bits of a foreign culture with curiosity and pride.

After COVID, I returned home to see him. I rented a hotel and stayed there with him for five full days before returning to my base. Those days now feel suspended in time—precious, deliberate, complete.

It fills me with joy that he had seen where his remains will lie, with his bosom wife, looking out to see his resting place with contentment, through the window of my sister’s house on his numerous visits there in Gbongan.

I am proud to continue to carry his favorite name, the name few people called him, but the one that defined him quietly and powerfully: Akinola (Akins mehmeh in your voice)

Greet your missed ones when you get to heaven. I recall him humorously saying that those that went ahead of him like Broda ‘Kinniyi, Timo and Iya-Leye will give him quick orientation and will not let him feel like a stranger in heaven. Please greet them, your parents, our uncle and others you had missed.

Goodnight, Dad. Baba mi, Akande, omo Motolani n’Ipetu, omo olowo Ayepe, Agboola alawoki, agba Isola, sun’re o

My Bahbah: A Tribute to Baba David Agboola Morakinyo a kind and loving Father-In-Law

Baba David Agboola Morakinyo was a kind and loving man — a loyal family man who loved his family deeply. Though he could be stern when unhappy, he always balanced it with his mischievous smile.

It was when I married into the Morakinyo family that I truly came to understand how close he was to his in-laws. Baba and Mummy Leye shared a special bond with my family, especially with my late grandmother, Mama Ring-Road. Their friendship was heartwarming — they often exchanged dishes of food across their homes, a beautiful expression of love and community.

Whenever Baba saw my mother, though she was much younger, he treated her with great respect and held her in high esteem as his in-law. Baba also loved my children — his grandchildren — dearly. He was proud of them.

Baba was generous in spirit and in deed. He would joyfully “spray” the grandchildren with money whenever we visited his Sango home. He loved me deeply, and I doubt anyone could have said a bad word about me to him — he would have defended me to the hilt. He often called me Iya Ayo, playfully dragging the “Ayoooo” in a funny, affectionate way.

I will miss Baba dearly. I pray that his love, kindness, and legacy will continue to live on in our hearts and souls.

Unfortunately, even greatness has an end. So many things about you were remarkable: the standards you upheld in raising your children, your strength even in old age, and the excellence you demanded, even in the smallest things—such as the way you liked your space arranged. You lived a good life. You were a good man. Rest in peace, Grandpa.

I loved my dad, and one of the reasons why is because he always wanted the best for his children and anyone around him. When my admission into the higher institution seemed to be impossible, he suggested the option of securing a banking job for me at Union Bank of Nigeria. I got the job and furthered my education on a part-time basis. I was able to stand tall among my peers. Father, thank you for the home trainings and the love you showed in every aspect of my life.
A father in a million, you would forever be remembered! Continue to sleep in the bosom of our lord Jesus Christ.
Adieu.

Pa D.A Morakinyo, my Dad, embodied diligence, optimism, consistency, situational leadership, tenacity, clear identity, and unbelievable good sense of humor. He had a huge sense of responsibility and demonstrated same even when it was very inconvenient.

He was more than a Dad to me, he was my friend. Always providing guidance and counsel to me. He truly loved me as a kid and while growing up, he was so fond of me that he directed everyone to call him by my name. Till today, most people would refer to him as "Daddy Leye" - this gave me a strong sense of belonging despite being one of the youngest children. I am proud to be Dad's boy.

He was very consistent and imbued with good values. He believed so much in hard work, educational excellence and set priorities and expectations for me. He kept mentioning them to me for emphasis and asking for progress every time we met.

Dear Dad, I can't forget how you fondly call me "Leyus" with your tender but strong voice. Your hugs were always reassuring and comforting. Whenever, we visited, you always took a particular vantage spot upstairs in our Ibadan home to say goodbyes to me and my family and wave your hands until we were out of sight - this is forever etched in my heart.

During my last visit, you held my hands as strong as you could with your feeble hands and pronounced blessings on me, Mo and the kids. You also asked me to pray for you; your "Amens" still resound loud in my head.

In your parting words, you told me that you really love me and this will remain with me for life.

I am glad our paths crossed, Dad, and will live to remember you, enjoying the foundations you have laid and your answered prayers.

Till we meet in the resurrection morning, I am standing at a vantage spot saying my goodbyes even as you are now out of sight. Love you loads❤️

To my amazing father-in-love.
Your Wisdom, kindness, love, guidance and support mean the world to us. We're grateful for the values you've instilled and the memories we've shared.
Thank you for being an amazing dad and grandfather. We celebrate your life and the impact you've had on us. You were a shining example of generosity and kindness. Your cheerful giving and caring nature inspire us all. We're grateful for your love and guidance. We will miss you so much Grandpa. Till we meet again at resurrection day, rest on Baba daadaa

A Tribute to My Beloved Father;
The passing of my dad left a void in my life that’s impossible to fill, but his memory is a constant source of light and guidance even during this time that I am being tested. His honesty and strong moral compass were clear in everything he did, from his career to his relationships with family and friends. My dad was tough when it comes to discipline but as soft as cotton when it comes to giving arms. As a father, he was patient, kind, and always there for me when I needed him. My dad had a way of giving advice without making it sound like a lecture. His words were thoughtful and rooted in experience. Whether it was about dealing with life’s ups and downs or making important decisions, his advice was always spot on. He taught me to approach life with curiosity and an open mind, always ready to learn something new. One of the most important lessons Dad ever taught me was to find joy in the small, everyday things. Dad faced life’s challenges with courage and grace, never letting them define him. His ability to stay positive and hopeful, even in the face of adversity, was truly inspiring. He taught me that strength isn’t just about being physically strong, it’s about having emotional fortitude and the ability to keep going no matter what. Even though Dad isn’t here physically anymore, his legacy lives on in the values he instilled in me. I strive to honor his memory by living a life of integrity, showing love and kindness to others, and finding joy in the simple things. His influence is woven into who I am, and I’m forever grateful for the time we shared. As I reflect on Dad’s life, I can’t help but feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude. He wasn’t just an amazing father, he was an incredible human being. His love, wisdom, and strength continue to guide me, and his memory is a source of comfort and inspiration. Even though he’s gone, his spirit lives on in those he touched, and his legacy will always be a part of me. I have been going down memory lane and I am proud that I was given the opportunity to call you my Father. A man who loved his family deeply, A man who worked very hard to take care of his family, A man who brought us up in the way of the Lord, A man who was always willing to lend a helping hand, A husband, A father, A grandfather, A friend, you’re a wonderful father who was not only a father to us but a father to all. He took care of all of us and make sure to hear from us at all times. My number 1 role model.
Dad, I miss you so much. All I can hope is that my message reaches heaven. Your life was a gift, and your memory will forever be a treasure.
May your soul find peace in Christ Jesus. Adieu, my father, my HERO!!!

You were more than just a grandpa, you were a guiding light. Your wisdom and love shaped our lives. You taught us to laugh, to love, and to live with kindness. Your stories, full of laughter and life, will forever echo in our hearts. You were a rock, a safe haven, and a constant presence. Your legacy will live on through those come across you and your memory will be a blessing. I will miss you more than words can say, but I take comfort in the memories we shared. Your love will never fade, and your impact will never be forgotten. You may be gone, but you will never be forgotten most especially as you called me to tune your radio whenever you're in Gbongan. Rest in peace, Daddy.

L/Evangelist O.O. Ola

Baba mi Owon,Isola, Agbostically yours,I shall live to remember d bond between us from my childhood till date.
Adieu,till we meet on d ressurection morning.
Ajanaku sun bi oke!
Sun re o!

On behalf of ALONGE OLUDAIYE, FAMILY OF OMOTOLA MORAKINYO WIFE OF ONE OF PAPA’S SONS AKIN MORAKINYO. NEWS OF PAPA’S DEATH CAME TO US LIKE A THUNDER, THOUGH PAPA WAS RIPE ENOUGH BUT NOBODY WILL LOVE TO LOOSE AN EXCELLENT AND EXTRA LOVING AND KIND HEARTED MAN LIKE PAPA MORAKINYO, MAY HIS PRECIOUS SOUL REST ON THE BOSOM OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST IN PEACE IN THE NAME OF JESUS CHRST. KINDLY ACCEPT OUR CONDOLENCES. GOD BE WITH YOU. Signed Chief Mrs Bolajoko Doherty MFR on behalf of ALONGE OLUDAIYE FAMILY

My wife and I extend our sincere condolences to the entire Morakinyo family on the passing of Pa David Agboola Morakinyo. We join you in honoring his memory and the legacy he leaves behind.
May the Almighty grant the family strength, comfort, and peace in this time of loss. May his soul rest in perfect peace. Amen.

May his soul rest in peace. Goodnight Papa!

Dear Grandpa.youve been an amazing and loving father to me and my mom while she was alive,you give her the love and care she needs in a family even though am not use to family like that but you never leave us.my mom always talk we'll about you till she pass on. 2019 I came home to see you with my son the joy in you I can feel it you are such a loving father with love and heart of Gold . till we meet again Eternal Rest Grant unto him oh Lord and let thy perpetual light shine upon him.rest on Dad Seun Omi.

Dear daddy David Agboola Morakinyo, you really resemble your daddy Pa Ezekiel Morakinyo (alia Baba Kekere). God Almighty had given you chance to lay legacy in dicipline, parental care and in jokes which I really cherished. Among your jokes were "Baba rakaba" (struggling), calling any one rushing things " bula-bula"
What many people may not know that God Almighty gave you uncommon second chance to restitute, gratitude to people and put your family in order before living this world. I really thank God Almighty for you and your family. I confidently believe that your family will proceed from where you left.
It's well in Jesus Christ name. Till we meet at Jesus Christ feet.
RIP Amen
'Wole Alawode

Baba David Agboola Morakinyo was indeed a very caring and loving father. Even to those of us that are his children friends.

I can recall vividly how he used to send Bro. Sunday ( now Rev. Sunday)to come and pick Akin from school when we were in the college and university. All of us close to Akin will join the car overloaded to Osogbo and Ibadan.

We talk, discuss, joke with daddy like mates. Sometimes we eat together and even struggle to share his meat with him. These are very memorable things that will remain in my mind a very long time.

Adieu Baba, you lived well and very healthy during your life time. May your gentle soul rest in peace. Amen.

Segun Olaniyi

Thank you, Grandpa, for everything. For your gentle hands and boundless wisdom, treasures that shaped us all. I can still hear your joyful voice, “Aaaayoooooo!”; a sound that now lives only in memory yet still echoes in my heart. You were a great man, steadfast in love, unwavering in kindness, and devoted to family and all who crossed your path. May we, those you’ve left behind, continue the work you began: to build upon your legacy and etch the Morakinyo name deep into the sands of time. We will love as you loved, give as you gave, and strive for excellence as you always did. Rest peacefully, Grandpa. Go and be with Grandma. Your spirit lives on in us. I love you, always.

May the soul of Baba rest in peace, may God grant him eternal rest, May God comfort all the children, May all the children and grandchildren that he left behind grow older and live longer as he has lived.
Baba ti sun re ooo.

May Papa's soul find solace with his creator may the LORD grant the Morakinyo's the fortitude to bear the loss of his demise.

Baba Bunmi, who later became Baba 'Leye,,,, it still feels strange to speak of you in the past. You are my first example of strength and resilience, you lived life on your own terms, firm in your ways and clear about what mattered to you. Our relationship taught me strength, understanding and acceptance in its own unique form. Life brought us full circle, from you caring for me as a child, to me caring for you in your later years. Those moments werent always easy but they were real and they taught me more about love, patience and family than words can describe. I'm grateful for the time we shared, for the lessons learned and for the memories that now live quietly in my heart. You've lived your journey and we'll continue ours with gratitude for the time shared. Rest well, Baba 'Leye.

KI OLORUN TE BABA WA SI AFEFE IRE ,BABA AGBO ESUN IRE OOOOOO

Pls do accept our condolences. May the soul of Grandpa continue to rest in peace and GOD will continue to comfort and console the entire family 🙏🙏🙏

Bàbá Gbongan,
You're wonderful father indeed !.
The other day we talk at length was at Gbenga's daughter weekend, you're still full of life but I know you're not active as those days again......
The last time I saw you, the old age is calling, your memory linger on Bàbá rere,oluku ọmọ rẹ̀.
Rest in peace!.
My condolences to the family........

God rest the dead. Your legacy through Leye will surely live on. You begat a champion, so you are a champion even as you transit to the yonder.

It was a rude shock hearing the passing of the baba David Agboola Morankinyo of Ayepe, Gbogan in Ayedaade local government area of Osun state , Nigeria.
Baba's legacies of forbearance, tolerance ,hardworking and futuristic are testament in the lives of his children and grandchildren. May the soul of Baba rest in the bosom of the Lord he served till his last breath at 95years and may God console those he left behind in Jesus mighty name 🙏

It was with a heavy that I received the message of the sudden and unexpected transition of Baba Agboola Morakinyo a.k.a DANMORAK to glory. He was a strong pillar in the Morakinyo Family,Ayepe Gbongan. A loving father, he will be greatly missed, and always fondly remembered by everyone who knew him.
Sun un re o, Omo Ajoje KO dun, benikan KO NI.

Tribute to My Beloved Uncle & Father
Papa lived a full and remarkable life, blessed with 95 meaningful years. He was more than a brother to my father Late Pastor Michael Akinniyi Akintola— they shared a rare bond of friendship and trust, spending their annual leaves together like two inseparable companions. On a few occasions, I was with them.
To me, he was a guardian, a mentor, and a steady hand. During my school years in Ibadan, he took me under his wing, always checking in whenever I faced challenges. His presence brought comfort and confidence. I also grew close to his children,my cousins, and in his home I always felt like family.
He was a man of discipline, yet full of humour — firm when needed, but with a heart that overflowed with kindness. He would share the little he had without hesitation. His words carried wisdom, and his life reflected simplicity, honesty, and deep care for others.
Even after his dear wife, Mama, passed on before him, he continued to show strength, grace, and compassion. He was a voice for me when I needed one, and his memory will always remind me of loyalty, love, and laughter.
Rest well, Papa. Your legacy of integrity, warmth, and generosity lives on in all of us who were blessed to know you.

My Grandpa, my Father… I bless almighty for every moment shared with you. You comforted me when I was broken with your love, prayers and calls( my gist partner). I will hold dear all your words through Christ that strengthens me. Goodbyes are hard… but you live in my heart forever.

Dear Grandpa,
You were a great man, always there for your children and grand children. We shall continue to cherish this great man whom nothing could keep down. When you are sad, he is there for you, a role model and an exceptional example of a holy man. His Memory will live on in my heart.
Thank you Grandpa.

Dear Grandpa,
We will all miss you. Though we lived in different states, you always filled my life with joy. Whenever we went to visit family, visiting you was always the highlight of my week. Rest in peace my lovely Grandpa

I celebrate and honor the life of a man who meant so much to our family — Our dear Grandpa
You were more than a father by marriage; You were a mentor, a guide, and a true example of strength.
You lived a life of purpose — a life built on respect and hard work. Your dedication to family was unwavering, and your faith gave you peace and strength even in difficult times.
Though you are no longer with us physically, your spirit continues to live on — in our memories, I miss you deeply but find comfort in knowing you will rest peacefully and proudly watching over the family.
May your legacy continue to shine through your children, grandchildren, and all those who loved you.
Rest well, Daddy. Your life was a blessing and your memory a treasure

Akin Omo Akin, my brother Dr Akin Morakinyo, please do accept my condolences. May Daddy soul rest in perfect peace.

K.K Eyin ara eko as you fondly called me. Grandpa, your love and wisdom will forever guide me, even though I can no longer see you .You taught me to always do my best, that it's okay to make mistakes, and to be brave, and those lessons continue to shape me every day,
"Your legacy of hard work and a commitment to learning lives on in me and my siblings.Thank you grandpa.

Adieu , Baba !
As you fondly call me Akin of Lagos.
Your transition to Glory left a vacuum in our heart, as we miss your intelligent giudiance, comic relief, and your faith in christ which is our own motivation and commitment to christ today. Peace with all men makes you popular and well accepted in the family, without rhetoric
We shall are saddened but joyful because we believes you are already resting at the blossom of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Farwell !

My Mother, as you fondly called me, it still feels unreal that you’re gone. You gave me the honour of bearing your mother’s name and treated me with the same tenderness you once gave her. I’ll cherish every moment.. your teasing, your blessings, your love. Sleep well, my dear father and son, until we meet again.

Grandpa, my heart aches knowing you’re gone. You always called me your little one, and I’ll never forget the way your face lit up when you saw me. You spoiled me with love and laughter, and I’ll carry those memories forever. Rest well, my favourite person. I’ll love you always.

Grandpa, you were the perfect example of quiet strength. I’ll always remember your jokes, your stories, and the wisdom you shared without saying much. Thank you for being the root of who we are today. Rest easy, sir... your legacy lives on in us.

Grandpa, your strength, grace, and humor lit up every room. You always found a way to make me feel special and seen. I will miss your stories, your prayers, and your laughter that echoed like music. Thank you for loving us so deeply and living so fully. Rest peacefully, Grandpa

Grandpa was more than a father-in-law to me, he was a pillar of wisdom and kindness. His gentle words and warm smile will forever remain in my heart. I’m grateful for the years we shared and for the legacy of love he leaves behind. Sleep well, Daddy.

I pray to God Almighty to grant Pa David Agboola Morakinyo eternal peace and also to grant the family fortitude to bear the irreplaceable loss.

We give God praise for a life well lived, and are happy to be part of the fun memories. We'll surely miss grandpa, although our solace is that he has gone to a better place, and already resting at the bossom of the Lord. Adieu Grandpa!

Though we never met Baba, we heard so much about him. We knew even before now that Baba will always be remembered because he was well treasured by our friends Akin and Tola Morakinyo who both spoke about him affectionately. To live in the hearts of those we love is never to die. Rest in the bosom of your Lord Pa David Morakinyo.

he is or great father
rest in peace babab

A life well spent. God grant baba a peaceful rest with his creator. May his soul rest in perfect piece. Adieu.

Grandpa was a good man. There is not one time we spoke where I did not leave with new wisdom. Grandpa placed a great value on family and enjoyed spending time with all of his children. I remember even in our last encounter, our prayer-filled conversation began with an endearing “Rọrọ” to address me. I was always fond of his presence; from young, just being around him gave me a peace and joy that I quickly associated with all my days—and nights—spent in Sango. I will constantly be reminded of all his jokes when we would visit, the fervor in his prayers for me and my cousins, and the warmth in his laughter. Grandpa, thank you for embodying the love that only family can bring, I miss you deeply.