A CHERISHED HUSBAND, FATHER & GRANDFATHER
14 April 1955 – 12 May 2025
THE MAN, JOSEPH
IN HONOUR OF MY DEAR HUSBAND, EZESTICK!
When the doctor held my hands on that fateful Monday morning of 12 May 2025 to announce your death to baby Esther and I at the hospital, I almost couldn’t believe what I had just heard.
Words can’t describe the immense grief, shock and pain your death has caused to both your children and I and I’m sure even Berto as you fondly called our grandson can feel your absence, because you always come back home with a pack of SODA CRACKERS FOR HIM AND THEN YOU WOULD CALL HIM THE NAME “BERTO”
E.H.Parker wrote: “The clock of life is wound. No one has the “POWER” to tell when the hands will stop, at late or early hour. Death is certain, but life is not. Life on this plane of existence is extremely unpredictable. Sometimes, one thinks he/she has it but in a split second it is gone.
However the memories we shared as my friend, husband, brother and father of our beloved children will continue to linger in my heart.
ADIEU, MY DEAR HUSBAND.
ADIEU, NWOKE OMA JOE.
REST IN PERFECT PEACE,AMEN!!!
Christina
Your darling wife
MY DARLING DADDY
Dear Daddy,
It’s been so hard having to put this words together, I miss your smiles, laughter, your jokes, your stories, your advice, but most especially I miss and love you so so much daddy.
I wish the moments we shared could last forever but then I am gladdened because we meet again to part no more.
I love you daddy Joe
I love you my darling daddy
Keep resting in perfect peace
My blessed and joyous dad.
Janet, Ezi mum
Your beloved daughter
MY BELOVED DADDY
Hey Daddy,
Your queen misses you greatly! My heart is so heavy. They say it gets better with time, yet I wonder why the events of May 12 still feel like they happened just an hour ago; it lives rent-free in my head. I want to ask someone to wake me up from this nightmare, but I can’t because I know it’s not a dream, I was there when the doctor held Mummy’s hand to announce the most unexpected thing that morning.
I remember when I always refused to eat in primary school, you took it upon yourself to feed me, saying, “Bekee, you’ll eat just 5 spoons of rice or 5 rolls of eba,” and then you’d count from 0, ½, ⅓, ¼… 1. Before we got to 5, I’d have finished the food, and everyone would tease me about how I closed my eyes and finished a plate of food, only opening them when it was time to eat the meat. Another priceless memory is how you knew I liked using your hand as a pillow to sleep every night instead of a regular pillow. You’d fan me so I wouldn’t feel hot at night. Or how, whenever it was cold you’d give me your shirts to wear so I wouldn’t catch a cold. I could go on and on about your many acts of kindness.
I had hoped to create more memories with you, but unfortunately, they’ll just be my imagination, and that alone breaks my heart. I miss hearing you call me Queen Esther, I miss hearing you call me Alu, I miss hearing you complain about my laughter. I miss the unique sound of your knocks on the gate. I miss you greatly, Daddy. I find solace in the fact that you’re finally with your Maker in a better place. With tears in my eyes, I bid you farewell, my Daddy. Rest peacefully in the bosom of the Lord! I miss you! I love you!
Esther Chiamaka
Your beloved daughter
A TRIBUTE TO THE MAN, EZEALI JOSEPH
(Fondly called Papa Joe)
I never thought that Monday, 12th May would be the last time I’d set my eyes on you. I’m writing this tribute a month after your passing, and it still feels unreal that it’s already been that long since you left this world to be with your God—your maker. Each day that passes, I shudder at the realization that you’re no longer here. I whisper gently to myself, “But Dad ain’t meant to die…” Yet, this is my current reality—one I cannot run away from, one that is here to stay.
I can’t question God. We can’t.
Every single day, I feel your absence—because there are things I know only you would’ve handled with such wisdom, calm, and great effect. You were a true Christian. You loved God with all your heart. You were gentle, kind, and oh, what a great cook you were!
I remember after my West African Exams, you said to me, “Now you’re a man, and I’ll address you as one from this day onward.”
And true to your word, you did. You never failed to guide me with advice and to admonish me when necessary.
You loved and cared for us—your immediate family, your extended family, and even outsiders. That’s why so many people felt a deep pang of pain when they heard of your passing. They knew what a rare soul had been taken from this earth. Joseph was a peacemaker. When issues arose, you always tried to resolve them peacefully—these are things I witnessed firsthand, even among your own siblings. You carried the burdens of others and offered comfort wherever you could. And when you couldn’t help physically, you went on bent knees and prayed for them.
I remember how you’d always call to check on my whereabouts. Always sending me updates. Always caring. There was an event in 2019 when I felt completely down—emotionally defeated. You called me and said, “All will be fine.” And yes, things got better. I remember how you were always the first person to wish me, my brother, and our siblings’ prayerful and cheerful birthday messages. Now, no one will do that like you did.
I promise, I’ll take care of the wife—my mother—you left behind. And I’ll look out for everyone else too, because that’s what you’d want me to do.
My thoughts are all over the place right now. This isn’t something I ever imagined doing—not less than a year after Big Daddy’s passing.
So my words might not fully reflect the weight of what you meant to me. But I find strength in knowing that you always taught me to be strong.
And I will strive to live up to the expectations you’ve always had and wanted for me.
Rest Well, Papa Joe…That’s what I always called you.
Even in the grave, Jesus is Lord and I know you are seated by His side, watching over us, smiling, praying still.
This isn’t goodbye, Papa. Not really.
Francis Amaechi
Your son
TRIBUTE TO MY DAD
It hits real hard to believe you have left this sinful world and words are not enough for me to express my pain and sadness. There’s not a single day that goes by without thinking of you, Dad.
Every Monday of a new week reminds me of the fateful Monday we lost you to the cold hands of death.
Your words of encouragement, motivation, enthusiasm and prayers will always be remembered.
You were such a jolly good fellow always telling jokes and stories to lighten up the moods around you.
Dad, with tears in my eyes your presence in my life will be greatly missed.
You left us too soon but I take solace in the fact that you’re resting in the bosom of The Lord.
Dad, you’re forever gone from my sight but never from my heart 🤍
There are no goodbyes for me…. You will always and forever be in my heart 🕊
Immanuel Onyekachi
Your beloved son
DAD WAS INSPIRING
Dear Dad,
You have always shown your Fatherly love and support to me as a son. In my days growing up, I saw how you went through life’s challenges and still had a cheerful smile and the ability to make others smile.
Dad, you were the best man ever liveth.
Few Things I learnt from you Dad:
- My Dad taught me to know no fear
- My Dad taught me to live a life of aspirations
- My Dad showed me how to place worth on myself
- My Dad defended me in the times I ran into troubles
- My Dad was always my story teller
May God grant you eternal rest, in Jesus’ name Amen.
Prince Michael
Your Last son
TRIBUTE TO GRANDPA ALBERT-O
The few years I have known you seemed like over 30 years. Your gentle character, hardworking spirit and the will to always help people still marvels me and will not be forgotten so easily.
I still remember the undiluted joy on your face when you first carried your grandson ‘Albert-light’ – that was so interesting to watch. The subsequent times you come around with your gifts of biscuits for bobo as you’ll echo “berto – berto” from afar will be missed.
Keep resting at the bosom of your lord.
Akin’ Bankole (Arc.)
Your son in-law
THE BEST GRANDPA
Grandpa, I miss your voice, I miss waking up at the sound of your voice whenever you return home and you call out to me saying “Alberto” bearing gifts of biscuits, fruits and a pack of bottled water.
I miss sleeping off on your bare chest and listening to stories about the animal kingdom even though I don’t understand anything, haha.
I didn’t get to spend so much time with you as much as I would have loved to, but I know that you’re smiling down at me in Heaven.
Rest in perfect peace grandpa.
I love and miss you grandpa.
Albert-Light Obanijesu Bankole
Your beloved grandson
EVENTS
Friday, 8 august 2025
REQUIEM MASS
At St. Lawrence Catholic Church, Ipaye close, Paiko-Idimu, Lagos State
6:00 PM
Friday, 29 august 2025
WAKE
At his residence; Amaebo Village, Ugwuegu, Afikpo, Ebonyi State
5:30 PM
SATURDAY, 30 august 2025
FUNERAL MASS
At All Saints Catholic Church, Ugwuegu, Afikpo, Ebonyi State
10:00 AM
INTERMENT FOLLOWS IMMEDIATELY
At his residence; Amaebo Village, Ugwuegu, Afikpo, Ebonyi State
ENTERTAINMENT OF GUEST FOLLOWS
At OGO; Amaebo Village, Ugwuegu, Afikpo, Ebonyi State
SUNday, 31 august 2025
THANKSGIVING MASS
At All Saints Catholic Church, Ugwuegu, Afikpo, Ebonyi State
9:00 AM
CONDOLENCE REGISTER
ALL YOUR KIND WORDS FOR JOSEPH
-
Tribute to a selfless man.
I feel privileged to have known you and to call you a father. I am deeply saddened by the news of your demise knowing how close you are to me and my family. I remember how you used to visit us, play with the kids, even assist in their homework whenever their mom is busy. Daddy, I remember how we use to attend different meetings together but now, I go alone. We miss you so much. I over heard the kids asking their mom about you and she told them you’re no longer with us that you’ve gone to Heaven to be with God.
Farewell grandpa like the kids used to call you, till we meet again on the resurrection -
Goodbye to a wonderful man, Ichie Joseph Ezeali Anwara
The last time you came out to acknowledge our presence in your living room, ‘you appeared like moss wrung out’ at its heels. Though frail, your candour was enough to suggest you’ll survive the exertion. You gave us hope in Catholic Men Organisation (CMO) and the Christian community.
Ichie Ezeali, days after, your soul swayed to sentience music, as you decided to put on the garb of immortality.
As torrent of tears descended everywhere and grieving hearts swoon in sorrow, we hoped and prayed it was a dream. But God knows why.
If words can bring back the dead, I guess the ones so far said are enough to wake you up from sleep. The sulks and sighs and tears becoming tears again are enough to quench the deep sleep.
As the flight home, where all will speak your name in distant echo, is ready to taxi on the tarmac, I join the host of heaven to say you were a jolly good fella.
Ichie, you lived the life of a good man. You lived a wonderful life brimming with smile, throwing banters with jokes. You lived a simple, peaceful and unassuming life. You were a man who never wore airs.
Ichie Ezeali, you were an epitome of peace and your soft spoken words pierced through like needle. Your words were frail but carried weight. They thawed the ice with your innocence. You’ll sorely be missed as an inspiration, uncle, father and leader.
Sleep on gentle soul. May you find a right place in the bosom of God as you await the resurrection day. -
It is with deep sorrow that we say goodbye to a truly special man — my dear Uncle Joe. He was more than just family; he was a source of strength, warmth, and wisdom. Always ready with a kind word or a quiet smile, he made everyone feel seen and valued. His passing leaves a quiet ache in my heart, but also a deep sense of gratitude for having known and loved him
He was more than just an uncle to me; he was a friend, a mentor, and a steady presence. With his calm wisdom, gentle humour, and generous heart, he brought comfort and guidance through both joyful and difficult times. He had a way of making everyone feel welcome and important — always listening, always encouraging, never judging.
Whether through his acts of kindness, or the strength of his character, he left a lasting impression on all who knew him. He lived with integrity, loved his family fiercely, and gave without expecting anything in return.
Though we mourn his loss, we also celebrate the beautiful legacy he leaves behind — one of love, kindness, and quiet strength. His memory will remain with us always, and we will carry his lessons and spirit forward in our own lives.
Rest peacefully, Uncle. You were deeply loved, and you will be sorely missed.
-
Daddy daddy, hmmmmmmm.
There’s an immeasurable loss when one loses a father. I’m deeply saddened by your passing, but we hold comfort in the hope that we’ll meet again to part no more. You truly loved and you were loved. May God almighty uphold those you have left behind as you rest in God’s love. -
It’s so heartbreaking to know you are no longer with us but resting with the angels in heaven.
I noticed how caring and loving you are to everyone around you and we miss you for that.
You were a true father and friend anyone could ever ask for.
I remember vividly how you always check up on us and address us as your family members.
Your memories will continue to live long in our hearts.
May your gentle soul rest in peace. -
Uncle Joe was a very thoughtful man. I remember one time, a long time ago when he went on a trip to SA, I think, he came back with gifts for us even though he didn’t have to. He would not see me around with the other kids and ask after me. Even after we moved, he continued to check in and was one of mum’s good friends. He would speak up for her when he felt it was necessary.
I saw him care deeply for his family through thick and thin! That was Ezinne’s best friend growing up… lol. I never thought I would have to say good bye this soon. I can’t even believe that I’m speaking about him in past tense.
Papa Anwara, your family misses you, but I know that God will be a cover them. You did a great job raising them and now it’s time for you to rest.
Sleep well sir.
Ugo Otu-Ekuma
-
I was deeply saddened to hear about your demise from Francis after our last meeting ,seeing renewed hope and strength in you to live.
You have always been more than a Neighbour, friend – a true brother in every sense , carrying the burdens of others with quiet strength and grace . I can only imagine how heavy this moment must be for your wife and children
May you find comfort in the love you gave and the lives you touched . May God forgives you of your sins and admit you to paradise. Amen
-
My Elder Brother, My IN-LAW I SAY PEACE.
-
We shall all miss daddy greatly, he was a great dad who absorbs everybody as his family, he attends to your problems and make sure it is resolved, he never starts what he can’t finish. Daddy was an upright man, does his thing gently without bothering anyone. Daddy we miss you and continue to rest in the bossom of the Lord. From all of us the Bristol family.
-
☹️☹️😢
Uncle, you left without saying goodbye. It is so sad to hear that you have gone to be with the LORD. Uncle J was a wonderful person, a father to all, you are always ready to listen, and your advise comes with wisdom.Oh LORD, as we gather here with heavy to mourn the loss of our dear uncle. Please wrap Your loving arms around his family, provide them with strength, peace, and understanding during this difficult time.
We thank You for our great uncle, whom we’ve lost to the cold hands of death. We acknowledge that our hearts are broken, and we are going through a difficult time.But we take solace in the fact that our beloved uncle is in a good place, resting in the arms of the LORD.
Help us to cherish the memories we have of him and to find comfort in your presence. We ask that You give us the strength to endure the pain we feel and heal the wounds this tragic loss has caused in our hearts. In Jesus’ name, Amen.More importantly Holy Father, we pray that we do not experience such young death again in our family as you have said in Your Word that a child shall die in 100 (Isa. 65:20).
All this we ask through Jesus Christ our LORD and SAVIOUR (AMEN)….
Leave a Reply