Rachael Titilope Ogunlaja
For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16
Please take a moment to share your memories and photos of our dear Rachael.
Obituary
Rachael Titilope Ogunlaja, beloved daughter, sister, aunty and friend, went home to be with the Lord on 10 June 2024.
Rachael was born on 7 October 1978 in London and also spent time in Lincolnshire, Blackpool and Nigeria during her childhood. Rachael showed a zest for life from the beginning. An outgoing and inquisitive child, she showed an uncanny ability to connect with people and grew into a larger-than-life personality.
The eldest of four siblings, Rachael was born into leadership and, as ‘Big Sis’, she played a vital role in the upbringing of her siblings and the running of the family home.
Rachael attended secondary school at St Saviour’s and St Olave’s Girl’s school, and it was during this phase of her life that Rachael developed a passion for music, singing in the choir and taking up the flute.
After college, Rachael studied at the University of Southampton, where she obtained a bachelor’s degree in Historical and Political Studies and a master’s degree in International Relations and Security Studies. Rachael flourished at university, where she made many friends, was active in her local church and immersed herself in her newfound community.
Rachael’s love for people was reflected in her career choice and she rose to be a senior human resources professional, working at a number of renowned organisations. Rachael brought joy and laughter to every workplace she graced…as well as a natural affinity for telling people what to do!
Rachael had a true servant’s heart and was always looking for opportunities to make a difference. Early in her career, she took a year-long sabbatical to undertake charity work supporting women living with AIDS in South Africa. The country, and its people, won a special place in her heart and ‘Hayibo!’ (South African slang for something shocking or unbelievable) and ‘Yebo’ (South African slang for ‘yes’) remained permanent features of her vocabulary.
Building on her role as ‘Big Sis’, Rachael had a special place in her heart for the children in her life. ‘Aunty Rach’ to many, Rachael poured into the lives of children around the world, caring for many as if they were her own. This was exemplified by Rachael’s relationship with her nephew Jesse. The two were inseparable, with Jesse revelling in his position as Rachael’s ‘handbag’ and each referring to the other as their ‘VIP’.
Above all, Rachael was a God-fearing woman and ministry was central to her life. For many years she served, with passion, in the music and children’s ministries at New Wine Church, London and, in recent years, Rachael was an integral member of the children’s ministry at KingsGate Community Church, Peterborough.
Rachael lived a full life, of immeasurable impact, and she left an impression on everybody she encountered. Her legacy lives on through the countless lives she touched and the many memories of love and laughter that she leaves behind.
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Post your condolences or share your Memories.
February 6, 2025
I first met Rachel circa September 1986. We had come for an examination to qualify us entry into primary 4 in Command Children School, Yaba, Lagos Nigeria. We immediately became friends that day.
However, it was not until primary 5 that we were both in Mrs Umesiobi's class 5A. Titi left after primary 5 (1988) and that was the last I saw and spoke to her but she did leave a very good impression. She's friendly, easy to get on with and upright.
I remembered Titi today and was shocked and saddened to learn of her passing. I do regret not having been in touch again after all this time as we are both in the UK.
I pray her family and friends are comforted and strengthened in the Mighty Name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Rachel Titi Ogunlaja is resting in peace, and I look forward to seeing her again in God's paradise, Amen.
However, it was not until primary 5 that we were both in Mrs Umesiobi's class 5A. Titi left after primary 5 (1988) and that was the last I saw and spoke to her but she did leave a very good impression. She's friendly, easy to get on with and upright.
I remembered Titi today and was shocked and saddened to learn of her passing. I do regret not having been in touch again after all this time as we are both in the UK.
I pray her family and friends are comforted and strengthened in the Mighty Name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Rachel Titi Ogunlaja is resting in peace, and I look forward to seeing her again in God's paradise, Amen.
September 23, 2024
Rachael, I will always remember your kindness and joyfulness when we worked together. Thank you. Much love to your family.
July 19, 2024
Rachael, may the good Lord keep you by his side. You will be missed. Rest in perfect peace. 🙏🏽
July 18, 2024
I heard of Aunty Rachael before I got to know her and when I finally met her I was not surprised. We did not spent much time together but the little time I spent was never a dull moment. She made me felt very welcomed and comfortable. Your smile was very infectious. You were very calm and always positive. You will be missed and know you are dearly loved. God bless, keep and protect you in His bosom. Till we meet again Aunty Rachel
July 18, 2024
Rachael was such a loving, joyful person. There was never a Sunday where Rachael didn't fill the room with her beautiful smile. She was warm and gave the best hugs.
Rachael loved well and her love for Jesus was clear to all around her.
We miss her dearly but know that we will be together again.
Rachael loved well and her love for Jesus was clear to all around her.
We miss her dearly but know that we will be together again.
July 16, 2024
Rachael our time together was very short but my God did you leave a lasting impact. And that’s the person Rachael was. Always leaving a little magic everywhere she left. You were an incredible colleague and such a great professional - working with you has taught me a lot about work but more about life. Thank you being such a blessing and coming into my life. Our hearts will forever be sad by this news but I know you’re in a better place and you will forever live in our memories. My deepest condolences to the family, who I know meant so much to Rachael. I can’t imagine what you are going through at the moment.
July 15, 2024
Gone but not forgotten.
It's still a shock as I write this memorial. Fun times we had at New Wine Church. I still remember when you moved to Peterborough and you brought Lasagna whilst I was on maternity leave. I enjoyed the dish so much that you brought the ingredients on a 2nd visit just to teach me how to make it. Ever so kind and thoughtful. Thanks for the gift and laughter.
I'll miss you but it's goodbye till we meet again at the feet of the master.
Well done for running the race and fighting the good fight of faith! Your legacy lives on.
I pray for God's comfort for your family and loved ones. May God fill the void and wipe every tear. IT IS WELL!!!
It's still a shock as I write this memorial. Fun times we had at New Wine Church. I still remember when you moved to Peterborough and you brought Lasagna whilst I was on maternity leave. I enjoyed the dish so much that you brought the ingredients on a 2nd visit just to teach me how to make it. Ever so kind and thoughtful. Thanks for the gift and laughter.
I'll miss you but it's goodbye till we meet again at the feet of the master.
Well done for running the race and fighting the good fight of faith! Your legacy lives on.
I pray for God's comfort for your family and loved ones. May God fill the void and wipe every tear. IT IS WELL!!!
July 14, 2024
I’m lost for words as I struggle to write this.
I still remember us growing up together at Elephant & Castle Parish, going through our uni days at Southampton, celebrating us buying our first homes, right through to our early adulthood together.
Though we lost touch and hadn’t seen each other for over 15 years or so, I take solace in the fact that I had the pleasant surprise of randomly bumping into you on the train 2 months ago. It was so nice to catch up with you for the brief train journey and as usual, you were your usual bubbly self. Little did I know that would be the last time I would see you.
My deepest condolences to your entire family. I pray the Lord will grant them the fortitude to bear this great loss.
Sleep with the angels and may your gentle soul rest in perfect peace.
I still remember us growing up together at Elephant & Castle Parish, going through our uni days at Southampton, celebrating us buying our first homes, right through to our early adulthood together.
Though we lost touch and hadn’t seen each other for over 15 years or so, I take solace in the fact that I had the pleasant surprise of randomly bumping into you on the train 2 months ago. It was so nice to catch up with you for the brief train journey and as usual, you were your usual bubbly self. Little did I know that would be the last time I would see you.
My deepest condolences to your entire family. I pray the Lord will grant them the fortitude to bear this great loss.
Sleep with the angels and may your gentle soul rest in perfect peace.
July 14, 2024
Like everyone else, the news of Rachael’s passing came as a rude shock. It is true that your infectious laughter and big smile would always light up any room you were in.
Meeting you some 20+ years ago at new wine church and being a recipient of your kindness is a memory that your passing has triggered in the past week. Thank you for helping me soothe my “only months’ old” daughter at the time so I could participate in the choir rehearsal. I was very grateful for the support as that was one of the reasons I could keep coming back.
May the Lord continue to comfort your mum, siblings, family and friends. Your absence has left a gaping hole but I pray that the memory of all that you were to everyone, and stood for will always bring joy to our hearts and a smile to the faces of your dearest and closest. It was heartwarming seeing you again in Nov 2021 - thanks to Kate otherwise we won’t have this photo.. But I would never have known that would be the last time I’d see you on this side.
Rest well Rachael, in the rest of your Lord Jesus.
With love and prayers
Bola Ogundeji 🌺♥️
Meeting you some 20+ years ago at new wine church and being a recipient of your kindness is a memory that your passing has triggered in the past week. Thank you for helping me soothe my “only months’ old” daughter at the time so I could participate in the choir rehearsal. I was very grateful for the support as that was one of the reasons I could keep coming back.
May the Lord continue to comfort your mum, siblings, family and friends. Your absence has left a gaping hole but I pray that the memory of all that you were to everyone, and stood for will always bring joy to our hearts and a smile to the faces of your dearest and closest. It was heartwarming seeing you again in Nov 2021 - thanks to Kate otherwise we won’t have this photo.. But I would never have known that would be the last time I’d see you on this side.
Rest well Rachael, in the rest of your Lord Jesus.
With love and prayers
Bola Ogundeji 🌺♥️
July 13, 2024
Today, I find myself reflecting on the incredible bond we shared, a bond that transcends even the boundaries of life and death.
From the first moment we met, I knew I had found someone special. Your kindness, laughter, encouragement and your endless capacity of love made every moment spent with you a treasure and I am so grateful to have experienced that firsthand.
Your courage and inspiration has taught me so much. You had a way of turning the ordinary into something extraordinary, simply by being yourself.
Although, you are no longer here in body, your legacy of love, kindness and strength lives on in all who were fortunate enough to know you.
Rest in peace, dear Rachael.
From the first moment we met, I knew I had found someone special. Your kindness, laughter, encouragement and your endless capacity of love made every moment spent with you a treasure and I am so grateful to have experienced that firsthand.
Your courage and inspiration has taught me so much. You had a way of turning the ordinary into something extraordinary, simply by being yourself.
Although, you are no longer here in body, your legacy of love, kindness and strength lives on in all who were fortunate enough to know you.
Rest in peace, dear Rachael.
July 12, 2024
I recall very fondly how we used to play at the playground of Wicksteed House in Elephant and Castle when we visited the UK.
Titi, as we used to call you then, you were always a fun cousin to be with and I used to look forward to seeing you every year.
Though we didn’t keep in touch but I always prayed that our paths will cross again so that we could reminisce about those good ole days.
I’m delighted to read about the full life you have led and certain that the good legacy you’ve left behind will continue to inspire all the lives you touched.
Your passing came as a rude shock.
I pray that God grants your wonderful mum, Maria and Samuel the strength to bear this irreparable and painful loss.
May your gentle soul rest in perfect and eternal peace. In Jesus’ name, Amen. 🙏🏿❤️
Titi, as we used to call you then, you were always a fun cousin to be with and I used to look forward to seeing you every year.
Though we didn’t keep in touch but I always prayed that our paths will cross again so that we could reminisce about those good ole days.
I’m delighted to read about the full life you have led and certain that the good legacy you’ve left behind will continue to inspire all the lives you touched.
Your passing came as a rude shock.
I pray that God grants your wonderful mum, Maria and Samuel the strength to bear this irreparable and painful loss.
May your gentle soul rest in perfect and eternal peace. In Jesus’ name, Amen. 🙏🏿❤️
July 12, 2024
So sad to be writing this and to know you are gone.
All I can say is a million thank you's. For listening, for caring, for making me laugh, for your patience and finally for our whirlwind friendship. Thank you for bringing a whopping great smile, chuckle and 'chicken' to every difficult situation we found ourselves in and for bringing out the best in me!
I am so grateful you popped into my life and feel lucky for our time together. Always in my thoughts, sleep tight Rach. Lots of love 'Lottie' ❤️
All I can say is a million thank you's. For listening, for caring, for making me laugh, for your patience and finally for our whirlwind friendship. Thank you for bringing a whopping great smile, chuckle and 'chicken' to every difficult situation we found ourselves in and for bringing out the best in me!
I am so grateful you popped into my life and feel lucky for our time together. Always in my thoughts, sleep tight Rach. Lots of love 'Lottie' ❤️
July 12, 2024
I can't believe you are gone Rachael but God knows best. Give my love to Debbie and Leah. Can't believe you guys are already on the other side. May God console and strengthen all you left behind. You will be greatly missed. God bless and keep your mum and siblings. RIP
July 11, 2024
Hearing the news about Rachael's passing came as a great shock which led to great sadness. Even up till now it still feels unreal.
I first met Rachael in secondary school - St Saviour's and St Olave's, New Kent Road, London, through some of my close friends who were in the school choir as Rachael was two years our junior. At the time, all you saw was Rachael with her huge smile and carrying her flute with so much pride.
After secondary school we lost contact but reconnected many years down the line when Rachael started attending New Wine Church. It was so good to see Rachael as she had not changed, still her bubbly and happy self. She then joined the choir which I was already part of and that was when our friendship blossomed. Our time in the choir was filled with laughter as well as good banter. We started calling her Rach as her nickname. Myself and others spent many afternoons/evenings at her house in Lowry close Erith, her house was always opened for us to come to, that was Rach, extremely welcoming and hospitable. The best gizdodo maker hands down.
Let's not talk about her love for Winnie the Pooh. If you did not know Winnie the Pooh, you sure did after meeting Rachael because everything she owned had to have something with Winnie the Pooh on it. Which showed her childlike nature.
She also had a lot of things to say as to how processes could be improved, I suppose that was the HR in her. She was very committed to her work and brilliant at what she did, definitely wise beyond her years.
If there was something not quite right, the next thing you heard was...issues!! That also became a word frequently used amongst some of us.
Rachael loved God, her family, children of all ages, adults and music. She had a heart for people and always found a way to help those who were in desperate need even when not asked to.
Rachael was selfless, had a servant's heart, kind, loving, generous and caring to everyone she met.
Rachael, you ran your earthly race with so much love in you and I am grateful and thankful that you shared that love with me.
Rach, my dear friend, you will be sorely missed but I am rest assured that you are now dancing, laughing, hugging, loving and telling someone...issues in heaven. Sleep tight, till we meet again to part no more.
I pray for God's comfort, strength and peace upon mummy Ogunlaja, Maria, Sam and the entire family.
Love,
I first met Rachael in secondary school - St Saviour's and St Olave's, New Kent Road, London, through some of my close friends who were in the school choir as Rachael was two years our junior. At the time, all you saw was Rachael with her huge smile and carrying her flute with so much pride.
After secondary school we lost contact but reconnected many years down the line when Rachael started attending New Wine Church. It was so good to see Rachael as she had not changed, still her bubbly and happy self. She then joined the choir which I was already part of and that was when our friendship blossomed. Our time in the choir was filled with laughter as well as good banter. We started calling her Rach as her nickname. Myself and others spent many afternoons/evenings at her house in Lowry close Erith, her house was always opened for us to come to, that was Rach, extremely welcoming and hospitable. The best gizdodo maker hands down.
Let's not talk about her love for Winnie the Pooh. If you did not know Winnie the Pooh, you sure did after meeting Rachael because everything she owned had to have something with Winnie the Pooh on it. Which showed her childlike nature.
She also had a lot of things to say as to how processes could be improved, I suppose that was the HR in her. She was very committed to her work and brilliant at what she did, definitely wise beyond her years.
If there was something not quite right, the next thing you heard was...issues!! That also became a word frequently used amongst some of us.
Rachael loved God, her family, children of all ages, adults and music. She had a heart for people and always found a way to help those who were in desperate need even when not asked to.
Rachael was selfless, had a servant's heart, kind, loving, generous and caring to everyone she met.
Rachael, you ran your earthly race with so much love in you and I am grateful and thankful that you shared that love with me.
Rach, my dear friend, you will be sorely missed but I am rest assured that you are now dancing, laughing, hugging, loving and telling someone...issues in heaven. Sleep tight, till we meet again to part no more.
I pray for God's comfort, strength and peace upon mummy Ogunlaja, Maria, Sam and the entire family.
Love,
July 11, 2024
All of us at Wilson James count ourselves hugely fortunate to have been work colleagues of Rachael. She made a massive difference to everyone she encountered- she was so professional, committed and calm. And she was great fun to be with. We miss her very much and send our very best wishes to all her family and friends at such a sad time.
July 11, 2024
Rachael is one in a million in the best possible way. Steadfast in her views (no way would she ever find a pet rat cute) but so easy to get on with bringing humour kindness and a sense of perspective to every situation. I will miss her so much. She had so much more still to give.
July 11, 2024
It is with profound sorrow that I write this message in memory of my beloved cousin, Rachael Titilope Ogunlaja. Rachael's vibrant spirit, kindness, and unwavering love touched all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her absence leaves an irreplaceable void in our hearts and our lives.
Rachael had a remarkable way of bringing joy and light to everyone around her. Her laughter was infectious, her compassion boundless, and her dedication to family and friends was unwavering. She lived her life with grace, resilience, and a generosity of spirit that will forever inspire us.I remember when Rach and I will get into fights on who would sit in the front sit of Maria’s car ..fun times . You are very much missed.
As we grieve this tremendous loss, let us also celebrate the beautiful memories and the profound impact Rachael had on each of us. Though she is no longer with us in body, her spirit and the love she shared will always remain in our hearts.
May we find comfort in knowing that Rachael's legacy of love and kindness will continue to live on through each of us. My deepest condolences go out to everyone affected by this tragic loss. Let us lean on one another during this difficult time and keep Rachael's memory alive by embodying the values she held dear.
With heartfelt sympathy and love,
Tunde
Rachael had a remarkable way of bringing joy and light to everyone around her. Her laughter was infectious, her compassion boundless, and her dedication to family and friends was unwavering. She lived her life with grace, resilience, and a generosity of spirit that will forever inspire us.I remember when Rach and I will get into fights on who would sit in the front sit of Maria’s car ..fun times . You are very much missed.
As we grieve this tremendous loss, let us also celebrate the beautiful memories and the profound impact Rachael had on each of us. Though she is no longer with us in body, her spirit and the love she shared will always remain in our hearts.
May we find comfort in knowing that Rachael's legacy of love and kindness will continue to live on through each of us. My deepest condolences go out to everyone affected by this tragic loss. Let us lean on one another during this difficult time and keep Rachael's memory alive by embodying the values she held dear.
With heartfelt sympathy and love,
Tunde
July 11, 2024
It was an absolute shock to hear of the passing of Rachel- It broke my heart, I had served with her in the Kingsgate Children church and she constantly embodied a heart for the Children . It is so sad I can’t serve alongside her anymore but our hope is that we would alongside in Paradise and worship God together- May her soul rest in peace and her family receive strength through this season. Amen
July 11, 2024
I received the message of Rachael’s eternal rest with deep and terrible shock, followed by profound sadness. If only there was a way I could have been pre-warned. Oh! I am well and truly heartbroken.
Rachael! A gem, a diamond, a treasure, a cut above the rest, inimitable and so much more all roled into one.
Her entrance into any room always a breath of fresh air, her face lit up and her throaty laughter filled the atmosphere every single time.
If selfless was a person, it will be Rachael. Ever ready to lend a helping and go the extra mile, always so sacrificial many times at great personal cost.
She was ever radiant and radiated purity and a childlike innocence, at the same time exuded great wisdom and uncommon intelligence. She bore no grudges and never gossiped, a role model par excellence and worthy of emulation.
The trajectory of my children’s formative years is incomplete without Rachael in it. She poured so much into them in every way that though now adults, their many memories of her remain crystal clear to this day.
She ensured they lacked nothing both materially and otherwise - attention, phone calls, discipline, gifts, cards, outings, letters and post cards when she travelled. She ensured a portion of her annual leave was allocated to them each year.
I often asked God what I did to deserve a precious gift like her. Many times I was deeply humbled wishing I could be half the woman that she was.
She could do no wrong in my eyes and I am eternally grateful for the exquisite gift that she was.
To dear Mummy Ogunlaja, Maria, Ladi, Sam, Buky and the rest of the family, please accept my heartfelt, utmost and deepest sympathy. I am hugging you all very tightly and sending you tons of love. I am praying fervently that God’s peace, comfort and strength overwhelms you all at this difficult period and beyond.
Sleep well in eternal peace dearest. 💔
Rachael! A gem, a diamond, a treasure, a cut above the rest, inimitable and so much more all roled into one.
Her entrance into any room always a breath of fresh air, her face lit up and her throaty laughter filled the atmosphere every single time.
If selfless was a person, it will be Rachael. Ever ready to lend a helping and go the extra mile, always so sacrificial many times at great personal cost.
She was ever radiant and radiated purity and a childlike innocence, at the same time exuded great wisdom and uncommon intelligence. She bore no grudges and never gossiped, a role model par excellence and worthy of emulation.
The trajectory of my children’s formative years is incomplete without Rachael in it. She poured so much into them in every way that though now adults, their many memories of her remain crystal clear to this day.
She ensured they lacked nothing both materially and otherwise - attention, phone calls, discipline, gifts, cards, outings, letters and post cards when she travelled. She ensured a portion of her annual leave was allocated to them each year.
I often asked God what I did to deserve a precious gift like her. Many times I was deeply humbled wishing I could be half the woman that she was.
She could do no wrong in my eyes and I am eternally grateful for the exquisite gift that she was.
To dear Mummy Ogunlaja, Maria, Ladi, Sam, Buky and the rest of the family, please accept my heartfelt, utmost and deepest sympathy. I am hugging you all very tightly and sending you tons of love. I am praying fervently that God’s peace, comfort and strength overwhelms you all at this difficult period and beyond.
Sleep well in eternal peace dearest. 💔
July 10, 2024
We met Rachel in 2021 and have since formed a beautiful friendship. Rachel opened herself to us, embracing and fostering the friendship that grew between Jesse and our boys. Jesse and Edgar, our son, became friends in nursery.
Rachel developed a special bond with Jesse and engaged with my boys with her extraordinary touch and lots of humour. I will miss a friend to talk to. She always had her heart open and was up for adventures. All of us have some fantastic memories of Rachel, which we'll cherish.
We have lots of memories taking the boys out, to the beach, to trampoline parks, eating Nandos, we even took Rachel and Jesse skiing with us. We watched her taking up the challenge which she, and Jesse, they both did brilliantly well. We hope Rachel rests in peace and is surrounded by love. My heart goes to Jesse and all her family and friends.
Rachel developed a special bond with Jesse and engaged with my boys with her extraordinary touch and lots of humour. I will miss a friend to talk to. She always had her heart open and was up for adventures. All of us have some fantastic memories of Rachel, which we'll cherish.
We have lots of memories taking the boys out, to the beach, to trampoline parks, eating Nandos, we even took Rachel and Jesse skiing with us. We watched her taking up the challenge which she, and Jesse, they both did brilliantly well. We hope Rachel rests in peace and is surrounded by love. My heart goes to Jesse and all her family and friends.
July 10, 2024
My condolences to the family of Rachael, having worked with her at church she was so kind and welcoming , im saddened to hear about this news , however the family of Rachael will be In my prayers.🙏🏿❤
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