By Regina Igwebuike
Agulu Community in Anaocha Local Government Area was agog as the Catholic faithful, friends, inlaws, well-wishers and Okoye Ughogu family of Odidama Village, Agulu bid farewell to their Patriarch, entrepreneurial icon and CEO Nath Supermarket, Amawbia, Nathaniel Anagor Okoye, aged 71.
The funeral Mass took place in his residence on October 4.
During his homily, Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Ifesinachi Uduh, reflected on the day’s readings, noting that following Christ requires embracing temptations, problems, and sufferings. He emphasized that walking the path of God is fraught with temptation, especially after repentance. He cited Matthew Chapter 5, highlighting the blessings for those who are poor in spirit, mourn, and suffer for Christ.
The cleric also referenced the letter of St. Paul to the Romans, noting that no one is righteous before God and that the devil often distracts and judges those seeking to make amends with God. However, God’s love is evident in John 3:16, which says, “For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son that whosoever believes in him will not perish.”
He encouraged the congregation to have faith in God, noting that the light of faith guides our lives on earth. He reflected on the life of the deceased, Nath, who lived a good life, served God, and built a successful business through hard work and dedication, assuring the congregation that Nath’s legacy lives on.
Fr. Uduh prayed for the blessings of God on Fr. Romanus Okongwu, Parish Priest, St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Agulu, who visits elderly priests, and the Chief Celebrant, Fr. Alphonsus Obiekezie. He expressed gratitude to the bereaved family, particularly Mrs. Nonye Okoye, Ada Eze Akaa Di iche, and her children, as well as the families of Okoye. He also thanked the people of Amawbia for their massive turnout to pray for the happy repose of Nath’s soul.
Thanking the attendees that came to commiserate with the deceased family, Rev. Fr. Okongwu, also prayed God to welcome Nath into heaven. He gave special thanks to Very Rev. Fr. Alphonsius Obiekezie (Chief Celebrant), Fr. Emmanuel Ifesinachi Uduh (homilist), Very Rev. Fr. Pius Odilimuo, the catechists, choristers, church wardens, kindreds, and the bereaved family, asking God to bless them all.
Mr MartinJoe Okoye, the younger brother of the late Nath Okoye expressed heartfelt gratitude to God for the gift of his brother’s life. He thanked the parish priests, coworkers, and everyone who supported them during the burial. He specifically appreciated the parish priest as well as the priests who traveled from afar, praying for their safe return. He also thanked the people of Amawbia for their presence, acknowledging the good relationship they shared with the deceased. Additionally, he expressed gratitude to their in-laws from different states for their support and presence, thanking the parishioners of St. Patrick’s Agulu and all attendees for their condolences and support.
Late Nath’s wife, Mrs Nonye Okoye (nee Okeke), said that her husband Ikpemalueziokwu, lived a good life. He impacted many lives immensely and his spirit and strength carry on in each of their children and grandchildren.
“You will live on in me and in all those who have been touched by the love, conviction, strength, wisdom and beauty of your soul.
“Heaven gained an angel the day you left us and your memories will always live on with us. Thank you for your care, concern and sacrifices, your love and everything that you have done for us all. We will forever be grateful and thankful,” she said.
The deceased’s son, Mr. Nathaniel Nebolisa Okoye, expressed heartfelt gratitude to everyone who stood by the family during this challenging time. He prayed that God would meet the needs of all who supported them. Acknowledging the immense loss his family had suffered, he asked God to grant them the strength to cope with the irreparable loss and promised to continue his father’s legacy, praying for the fortitude to do so.
Regina is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
