FROM EPE BENISA In the late 1970s, when you returned to Ghana from the United States for good, you told us we should call you “Big Mummy” instead of Auntie. Because I was also named Yaa, like you, you affectionately called me “Davi Epe,” even though my parents simply called me Epe. Later, you changed your mind about “Big Mummy” and asked me to call you Auntie Obaa Yaa. That name has stayed with me forever. You loved me dearly. In fact, you once asked my parents if you could adopt me. From 1978, I spent many holidays with you at the Airport Aviation bungalow. You spoiled me with so much love and attention. It was a large home for just the two of us, and because you were so well known, many dignitaries visited you daily. Being around you during those years taught me so much about life. One of the most important lessons you gave me was to take opportunities when they come and never be afraid to step forward. You were the first person who firmly stood your ground and convinced your younger sister—my mother, Mom Akua Atta—to allow me to travel to the United States for a vacation while I was a student at Accra Technical University when the opportunity came. That encouragement opened doors for me that I will always be grateful for. You were also very involved in my education and even suggested to my parents that I should attend Aburi Girls’ Secondary School. My parents preferred Mfantsiman Girls’ School, but I always admired how strongly you believed in what you thought was best for me. I still treasure the handwritten letters you sent me from Ghana and Italy after I left Ghana following my graduation. Those letters remain precious memories of your love and guidance. You were full of life—a generous giver who loved helping others and who also loved being loved. As educated as you were, you always reminded me that education matters, not only money. You were also very fashionable and carried yourself with dignity and grace. You treated your nieces and nephews as if they were your own children, often taking us out and caring for us with great love. Even strangers experienced your kindness and generosity. You also taught me how to read my Bible and pray early in the morning before speaking to anyone. I still practice this today. Because of your deep faith, I am not surprised that you were one of the founders of the United Church, which I attended with you many times. Your devotion to God never changed. You also shared with me the story of how you met your former husband—from his days at Adisadel College to Croydon, London, where you had your white wedding. We laughed about those stories often, and I cherished those moments with you. During every phone call, you asked about your grandchildren. When I visited you in January 2025, you were not feeling well and had coldlike symptoms. Months later I was told again that you were unwell, yet each time you reassured me, saying, “It’s just old age.” When you became very sick and were admitted to the hospital in London, you told me not to travel immediately. I respected your wishes but asked my friend turned sister, Tina, to visit you in the hospital, and she did. Later, when you arrived in the United States, I came to visit you myself. Even during that difficult time, you remained strong. On Christmas Day 2025, I spoke with you while you were in the hospital. Your voice sounded stronger than before. You asked where I was and when I would come to Ghana to visit you. I did not know that only four days later, on December 29, 2025, you would pass away. My bags were already packed to travel to Ghana, but you passed away a day before my departure. I am still in shock. This is my first time in Ghana without seeing you or hearing your voice calling me, “Davi Epe, where are you? When are you coming over? I have meals prepared, waiting for you.” Auntie Obaa Yaa, your love, wisdom, faith, and guidance shaped my life in many ways. Though you are no longer with us physically, your memories and the lessons you taught me will remain in my heart forever. Rest peacefully in the arms of the Lord until we meet again TRIBUTE W 31 A Loving Farewell 1934 MRS. OBAA YAA AFRIFA 2025
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