By Osegbue Patricia
Family members, friends, associates and sympathisers on July 31 gathered at Onitsha Ado n’Idu community in Onitsha North Local Government Area to bid farewell to businessman and community leader, Sir Augustine Arinze Mozie.
The funeral rites commenced with a Requiem Mass at St. Mary’s Catholic Parish, Inland Town, Onitsha, officiated by the Vicar General of the Catholic Archdiocese of Onitsha, Very Rev. Fr. John Bosco Okafor, while the homily was delivered by Rev. Fr. Val Eleanya of St. Mulumba Parish, New Haven, Enugu.
Delivering the homily, Fr. Eleanya urged Christians to respond promptly to God’s call, citing Christ’s invitation in the Gospel of Matthew: “Come to me, all you who labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” He said the best time to embrace God was now rather than postponing the decision.
The cleric described the deceased as a devoted Christian who remained steadfast in his faith throughout his lifetime and urged the bereaved family to draw strength from the hope of Christ’s resurrection. He prayed for God to grant them wisdom, fortitude and divine consolation.
Following the church service, the remains of Mozie were interred at his residence amid prayers and tributes from family members, friends and well wishers.
Born on Aug. 8, 1951, to the family of Sir Stan Ndulue and Lady Victoria Mozie of Iyiawu Village, Onitsha, the late Mozie had a distinguished career in the banking industry before his retirement. He later served as the Managing Director of Ezinne Rentals.
He was widely known for his passion for sports, particularly wrestling, and earned respect for his leadership, commitment to duty and service to his community.
Family members described him as resilient, hardworking and dependable, adding that he positively impacted many lives. He was an active member of the Knights of St. Mulumba, Men of Order and Discipline (MOD), and his Ọgbọ age grade.
The deceased is survived by four children, grandchildren, siblings, in-laws and other relatives.
Dignitaries, associates and members of the community have continued to visit the family to pay their last respects as the funeral rites continue.
Osegbue Patricia is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
