Chief Catherine Olufunmilayo Onitiri JP

Mother and son and niece will now be united in the bosom of our Lord Jesus Christ and never to part again.

Obituary

A Life of Purpose, Resilience, and Legacy: Chief Catherine Olufunmilayo Onitiri

For 81 years, Chief Catherine Olufunmilayo Onitiri walked this earth with an uncommon zest for life. She radiated beauty, kindness, and generosity, leaving an indelible mark on those who knew her. Though life slowed her down in her final years, confining her to a wheelchair for five years, her spirit remained unbroken until her passing on March 5, 2024.

Her story is one of resilience, courage, and grace—a testament to a life devoted to humanity.
Born on February 11, 1943, at 318 Herbert Macaulay Street, Yaba, Nigeria, she was affectionately called “Funmi” by family and friends. Her compassion and deep concern for others were evident from a young age, a trait she inherited from her parents, Chief Victoria Modupe Onitiri (née Phillips) and Pa Emmanuel Sule Idowu Onitiri. Her other siblings were Chief Samuel Akanbi Onitiri, Mrs. Adepeju Onitiri-Willoughby, Mr. Adesina Onitiri, and Mrs. Adetola Onitiri-Showunmi, all of the blessed memories had this trait of being great humanitarians.

Her only surviving, Pastor, Sir Babatunde Onitiri KTC OSJ also carries this trait with relish.

A Legacy of Tolerance and Unity

Funmi grew up in a family where religious harmony was a way of life. Her paternal grandparents—Mrs. Regina Esuru Onitiri (a devout Christian) and Pa Lawani Idowu Onitiri (a devout Muslim)—lived together in unity, exemplifying mutual respect and coexistence. This deep-rooted value of tolerance and compassion shaped Funmi’s approach to life and relationships.

Her family name, Onitiri—which translates to "How is today?"—reflected their philosophy of taking life one day at a time while keeping an eye on the future. This visionary spirit made the Onitiris pioneers in industry, construction, and land ownership. In the 1940s and 1950s, they were among the largest private employers in building and construction materials, notably owning the brickfield at Yaba, now known as Oyadiran Estate.

On her mother’s side, the Phillips family had a strong legacy in the medical field, reinforcing the family's commitment to service and humanity.

Education and Professional Life

Funmi attended St. Agnes Catholic School and Ideal Secondary and Commercial School in Yaba. Sadly, in April 1960, while still in school, she lost her father to acute malaria and a heart attack, a tragedy that left a deep imprint on her.

Determined to excel, she pursued further studies in London, earning a Nigerian Foreign Office scholarship to Pitman College, where she trained as a professional stenographer and corporate secretary. She later worked as a corporate secretary in the education division of the Nigerian High Commissioner’s Office in London until 1975. Upon returning to Nigeria, she joined the University of Lagos (UNILAG), where she dedicated herself to research on malaria prevention—a cause close to her heart given her father’s passing.

A Mission to Combat Malaria in West Africa

Funmi’s passion for eradicating malaria led her to groundbreaking initiatives. Through her family business, Onitiri Homes Holding SA and Onitiri Ministries Inc., she partnered with WTF Design and Build SA and Konect Group Ltd UK. In 2017, they signed an agreement with the Ministry of Integration in Côte d'Ivoire to build biolarvicide laboratories in select ECOWAS nations. This initiative, launched in Abidjan on December 10, 2019, aimed to implement the ECOWAS blueprint for malaria eradication.

In collaboration with AXIAL BANK, UGAMA (Unco Global Asset Management Agency Limited), and Onitiri Ministries Inc., she worked tirelessly to secure funding for this project. Her vision will continue beyond her lifetime, fulfilling her dream of a malaria-free West Africa.

A Life of Faith, Love, and Sacrifice

Beyond her professional and humanitarian pursuits, Funmi was a devout Christian who found joy in reading, knitting, music, evangelism, and travel. However, her greatest test of faith came in 1992 when her only son, Dewale Adeyinka-Onitiri, was diagnosed with a terminal illness. She devoted herself entirely to his care, ensuring he lived with dignity and spiritual strength. She took him around the world, teaching him scripture and the ways of the Lord.

One of their most profound experiences was a pilgrimage to Jerusalem, where Dewale earned the title Jerusalem Pilgrim (JP). Tragically, on January 30, 2017, after a 15-year battle with cancer, Dewale passed away.

Just two years later, in April 2019, while on her way to purchase a mobile card and airline ticket, Funmi was struck by a delivery truck and dragged over 10 yards. The accident led to the amputation of her right leg, confining her to a wheelchair. Her condition gradually declined until she passed away on March 5, 2024.

A Life Well Lived, A Legacy That Lives On

Her journey did not end with death. Due to legal proceedings, it took nearly a year before her remains could be released for burial. On February 11, 2025, the High Court of Justice, King’s Division (UK), dismissed the case, allowing her burial on March 3, 2025.

Now, mother and son are reunited, resting in the bosom of our Lord Jesus Christ, never to
part again.

Funmi Onitiri did not merely exist—she impacted lives, uplifted communities, and left the world better than she found it. Her memory and legacy will continue through the countless lives she touched, the projects she championed, and the values she instilled.

May we all be inspired by her resilience, faith, and unwavering commitment to making a difference.

Message of Appreciation

The entire families of Emmanuel Idowu Onitiri Lagos and Modupe Phillips Abeokuta & Lagos express most profoundly our appreciation to everyone who has supported us through prayers, visitation and presence during our moment of grief as we celebrate God’s Goodness during the lifetime of our matriarch Chief Catherine Olufunmilayo Onitiri JP.

May God Almighty who is innite in His ways, grant your journey mercies to your respective destinations in Jesus name.
Amen

Gallery

Memory wall

March 2, 2025

Aunty Funlayo was a kind and gentle soul.  Generous to a fault. She was the type to get in touch with you to give and not to ask or take, hence it was always a pleasure to give back in return. Optimistic and upbeat despite all the challenges she faced.  She had an unwavering faith in God. She really deserved the best.  My favourite aunt of all, it was always a pleasure to be around her.  It was hard to lose her just two years after losing my mother, her sister.  I have missed her immensely and will always remember her fondly.
Rest well in the blossom of the Lord aunty - with your siblings and parents 🙏

Yemisi Oladeinde

March 1, 2025

A Tribute to Chief Catherine Olufunmilayo Onitiri JP

A Woman of Faith, Love, and Service

With hearts filled with gratitude for a life well-lived, we celebrate the legacy of Chief Catherine Olufunmilayo Onitiri JP, a true pillar of faith, a devoted servant of God, and a mother whose love extended beyond her family to the church and the community.

Mama lived a life rooted in Christ, embodying Proverbs 31:26—"She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue." She was a woman of deep conviction, unwavering faith, and tireless service. Her love for God was evident in her dedication to the church, always standing as a pillar of support for the work of the gospel.

As a mother, she nurtured not just her biological son but all who came in contact with her, offering guidance, encouragement, and love. She gave generously, not only in material things but in time, prayers, and wisdom. Her impact was profound, and her legacy of faith and service will continue to inspire generations.

Chief Catherine Olufunmilayo Onitiri JP was an embodiment of Matthew 25:21—"Well done, good and faithful servant! Enter into the joy of your Lord." Though we mourn her passing, we rejoice in the knowledge that she is resting in the bosom of our Lord, where pain and sorrow have no place.

Mama, your light shone brightly, and your good works will forever speak. Rest in peace in the arms of your Savior.

Sun re o, Mama. Till we meet again at the feet of Jesus.

From: The Redeemed Christian Church of God- Restoration Centre
Bow Road London

_Pastor Oluwakemi & Kolaru Olakanmi_

RCCG Restoration Centre

February 28, 2025

Tribute to my Big Sister, a crusader and a Friend-Late,Chief Catherine Olufunmilayo Onitiri JP.

FUNMI, as we fondly called her. I rejoice in the Lord because I know you have departed to sit with Jesus as joint Heirs in the Kingdom of God-Hallelujah!

Your passing over struck me like a thunderbolt out of nowhere and left me in total devastation and disbelief. None of us had the slightest incline or premonition that the Lord would call you up in this manner. We had hope for your full recovery. After a confirmatory autopsy conducted by the United Kingdom coroner, the conclusions relayed remained unexplained circumstances. No doubt, posterity will judge the circumstances relating to your passing and prove otherwise, On hindsight, I believe you felt you have achieved the ultimate objective of raising a happy and loving family, as demonstrated by the beautiful gift of love that you gave us in relentless effort to find a cure for Malaria and to build affordable homes in West Africa.

Your demise is a big loss to me personally, my wife and our children, and the intellectual community. Your place in our lives will be difficult to fill without the grace of God.

You have been an outstanding mentor within the social, economic and philanthropist community, a woman of high integrity, great role model and pillar of strength for us all.

No doubt, you had a great, and deep love for the Lord.
As I was writing this tribute to a dear friend and sister it brought a lot of good memories to me of the good times we shared together:

As a Crusader, you hated injustice of any sort. You harbor no malice against anybody. If and when you were offended, you would tell the person there and then. And it is finished.
You do not have to know the person to fight for justice for them. You would pursue justice to any level for others with your time and own money. You cared selflessly for others to your own detriment.

My dear Sister, you had no time to brood over anything. You simply say "We shall Overcome" I now know why. You are a lady to the core.
Now that Time and Space separate us, we take comfort in this:

Time is too Slow for those who Wait, too Swift for those who Fear, too Long for those who Grieve, too Short for those who Rejoice, but for those who Love, time is Eternity.

Because we love you, your love will heal our wounds and comfort us. Your dreams to unite the Onitiri Family and to build a better tomorrow will be remembered by us in our daily prayers.

Good Night, my partner in the faith and dear friend.

From: Pastor(Sir) Babatunde Onitiri KTC OSJ and the Onitiri
(how is today?) Ministries
www.onitiriministries.com

Pastor(Sir) Babatunde Onitiri KTC OSJ

February 28, 2025

February 28, 2025

Tribute to the Life and Legacy of Chief Catherine Olufunmilayo Onitiri JP

As representative of UNCO United Oil Holdings, LLC, we pay tribute to the life and legacy of our esteemed colleague, supporter and friend, Chief Catherine Olufunmilayo Onitiri JP. Chief Catherine was not only an esteemed mentor and a visionary leader but also a compassionate guide who inspired countless individuals to reach for and achieve at their highest levels of potential.

She is held in deep respect and devotion for this trait and we know that many who knew her were aware of her legendary storytelling abilities. Whether recounting tales of triumph or adversity, she had a gift for weaving words that captivated our minds, touched our souls, and truly made us think and feel aware of her impact on the lives of others.

As we say goodbye to Chief Catherine Olufunmilayo Onitiri JP , let us carry forward the lessons she imparted and the values she embodied that helped us and our company rise to levels of success. Although she may no longer walk beside us, her legacy of inspiration and empowerment will live on in the lives of all those she touched and we can all carry that legacy forward to inspire the next generation.

Paulette Long
UNCO United Oil Holdings, LLC
President

Dr Paulette Long

February 28, 2025

Aunty you have gone and not to be seen no more. but your memory remains with me forever. You are such a lovely, kind and wonderful woman. I will never forget your words of encouragement and advice to me when I was much younger. Aunty sleep well reside permanently at the right hand of God! Amen.

Olufemi Craig

February 27, 2025

February 20th, 2025.
TRIBUTE CHIEF CATHERINE OLUFUNMILAYO ONITIRI JP
SIR BABATUNDE ONITIRI,
General Overseer Onitiri Ministries,
Chairman: ONITIRI HOME NIG. LTD
318 HERBERT MACAUIAY STREET.
YABA, LAGOS, NIGERIA.

Dear Sir. Babatunde Onitiri.
The management and staff of WTF Construction Nig. Limited and Wall-Ties and Forms INC. USA, commiserate with you and the entire Onitiri and Modupe Philips families on the passing away of the matriarch of your esteemed families on 5th of March, 2024.
Her death is not just a huge loss to both families, but to everyone she cared for and represents both in her Home Country Nigeria and Aboard, including all she shared and interacted with closely.
Late Madam Catherine Modupe Onitiri JP was a very generous, beautiful woman, a socialist, and very warm to all around her, most importantly prayerful and loving mother and Grandma.
She was one of the very highly educated women of her era, she represented Country and Family with career achievements that stood her out amongst her piers.

MAMA YOU SHALL BE MISSED.
We pray the Lord Almighty shall grant her eternal rest, and grant the famines and friends she has left behind the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.
REST IN PEACE MAMA.
Yours Truly

Dr. Nosa OMERE(Mrs.) UN AmbP
For and on behalf of WTF Construction Nig. LTD
Wall-Ties and Forms INC. USA.

Dr. Nosa OMERE(Mrs.)

February 27, 2025

Aunty Funmilayo,
It was my absolute pleasure knowing you. A strong willed woman who loved God.
RIP 'mummy'
God bless
Jairzinho Williams

Jairzinho Williams

February 27, 2025

Aunty Fumilayo, Iya Dewale. It's been with great joy that you've filled my life with endless wisdom, compassion t
Thoughtfulness, laughters and motherly love by so doing I am greatly enriched in CHRIST JESUS. Your vigor in fighting against all odds that has happened to you in recent years, has enlighten and ensure all is welcomed in your presence as your Love encapsulate everyone. Mummy till we meet again in heavenly realm rest in perfect peace.


Harvey Otis.

Harvey Otis

February 27, 2025

Chief Catherine Olufunmilayo Onitiri lived a life of purpose, resilience, and unwavering faith. For the period she walked this earth with kindness, strength, and a deep commitment to humanity. From her pioneering work in malaria eradication to her enduring devotion to family and faith, she was a beacon of love and service.
Even in the face of life’s greatest trials, she stood firm—caring for her son, championing humanitarian causes, and inspiring all who knew her. Her legacy of compassion, perseverance, and impact will continue to shine.
She did not just live—she made a difference. May her memory forever inspire us to do the same.

Isaac Adeyemo

February 27, 2025

Mama Adeyinka, as usually called her, I saw her as someone who loved God and the people of God. She liked to sow to the work of God. Mama could call you 100 times a day if allowed her. Anytime I visited mama she would always tell me about the Family, mama would always watch her Christian channels 24/7 and sending money towards the work of God, whenever anyone visited mama she would always pack food to be taken home. Mama would always get angry with me on this because I refused and telling her that I should be one to be bringing food to her. Mama had challenged me many times why should I be bringing food to her if I would not take food from her. Mama was very sound and liked to take charge and made decisions about what she wanted.
Mama was greatly missed. Rest in peace Ma.

Pastor Michael Osundun

Service