By Joseph Obunse
The funeral of Late Mrs. Patricia Okwunna Onwumelu, “Mama Fada” affectionately known as “Elegance,” was a momentous occasion, presided over by the Metropolitan Archbishop of Onitsha Ecclesiastical Province, Most Rev. Valerian Maduka Okeke. The requiem Mass, which took place at Our Lady of Seven Sorrows Catholic Church Umuoji, brought together an impressive gathering of over 100 priests, religious leaders, and faithful, all came to pay their final respect to a woman whose life was a testament to grace, devotion, and service.
In his homily Rev. Fr. Justin Oguama delivered a heartfelt tribute to the late Mrs. Onwumelu, recalling her deep commitment to a prayerful life and her unwavering joy that radiated to all she encountered.
He highlighted her exemplary role as a mother, noting how she was an enduring source of strength and guidance to her loving husband Chief Emmanuel Onwumelu ( Ichie Akunne Ugonweze) and Children Engineers Obumneke (Ezedinobi)
Onyeka Onwumelu (Ezennia), Dr Mrs Chioma Omojiba (Adaugo) and Rev. Fr.Dr Charles Onwumelu, and to all those around her.
Rev Fr Justin Oguama also paid tribute to her professional achievements, particularly her distinguished career at the Federal Polytechnic Nekede, where she rose to the esteemed position of Deputy Registrar before her retirement.
Her love for the priesthood and her constant counsel to priests were also central to the homily, reflecting her deep faith and commitment to the Church.
The church was filled with a sea of mourners, including friends, well-wishers, and members of various religious groups, who gathered in solidarity to honour the life and times of Late Mrs. Okwunna Patricia Onwumelu, who lived for sixty seven years.
In an emotional vote of thanks, the Son of the deceased, Rev. Fr. Dr Charles Onwumelu, a former Rector of All Hallows Seminary, Onitsha and the Pioneer Parish priest of St Francis of Assisi Catholic church inland Town Onitsha, expressed his deep gratitude to Archbishop Okeke for his fatherly guidance, spiritual mentorship, and support throughout his journey, both as a priest and in his academic endeavors, which have included doctoral studies abroad.
He also extended the family gratitude to the traditional ruler of Umuoji, represented by the Onowu, and to the many priests, Rev sisters from different congregation and faithful who came to show their love and support.
As the final rites were performed, the faithful paid their final respect to a woman whose Life was a testament to Grace, Devotion and service .
May the soul of Late Mrs. Patricia Okwunna Onwumelu, and the souls of all the faithful departed, rest in peace. Amen.
Joseph is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
