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
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THE ASSOCIATION OF SOUTH EAST ZONE – St Lawrence Catholic Church, Idimu.
27th July, 2025
IN LOVING MEMORY OF LATE ICHIE EZEALI JOSEPH ANWARA
We are deeply saddened by the loss of our beloved brother, late Ichie Ezeali Anwara, a valued member of our Association, known for his commitment to our shared goals.
His passing has left a profound void in our lives, and we will miss him dearly but will also be remembered for his unwavering support for our Community.
May Late Ichie Ezeali Joseph Anwara’s soul rest in peace. We will continue to uphold his values, ensuring that his contributions to our association are never forgotten.
He will forever be in our hearts.
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GLORIOUS EXIT
We, the Catholic Women Organization of St. Lawrence Catholic Church, Paiko, Idimu, Lagos offer our deepest condolences to our beloved sister and the immediate past president of our organization- Ezinne Christiana Anwara on the loss of her dear husband, Late Ichie Joseph Ezeali Anwara.
Our late daddy’s dedication to service of God and humanity was an inspiration to us all, and he will be deeply missed.
We remember him not only for his religious service but also for his kindness and warmth qualities that endeared him to the entire parishioners.
May the memories our dear sister shared together with her late husband bring her and her entire family comfort and peace during this time of mourning, Amen.
Dr. Chika
https://us.docworkspace.com/d/sIPWXlpNTlvmJxAY?lg=en-US&sa=601.1074&ps=1&fn=IMG-20250724-WA0115.jpg
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Dear Uncle Joe Anwara,
You are indeed a very peaceful and humble man with a very cheerful disposition. The news of your demise came as a rude shock to us all.
I remember how you sent in your contribution to hosting the CMO meeting without even saying a word but knowing you were preparing yourself to meet with the Lord. You always involve yourself in full capacity in anything of the Lord, a jolly good fellow.
Words cannot really explain your personality but we take consolation in the fact that you’re in a better place. Please keep interceeding for us till we meet to part no more.
Adieu Daddy Joe. Rest in the peace of Christ.
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Tribute to a wonderful father and friend.
Master as i fondly call you because of the easy way you handled everything life threw at you. You are one of the most selfless man i know. You made sure you worked tirelessly to ensure your family and friends are comfortable. Death took a very good man.
May you find peace in the bossom of the Lord..Amen
Mere words cannot describe how much i Miss you because you ensured i kept my head up in one of my darkest moments. You will be forever loved and respected by me and my family.
Rest in peace master. -
Dear brother Joe, as I always call you, continue to rest peacefully, in God’s kingdom. I am so glad that I called my sister, your lovely wife, a couple of days before, and asked her to give you the phone, just for me to hear your voice, after many months.
I encouraged you to fight back, that whatever that is attacking you, does not belong in your body. Unfortunately, death has no fear, regardless of who, what , or where. It snatches anyone at anytime, any where. Another legend has left us. Who else is out there, ready to help as you always do. You are always ready to do whatever it entails, to help, and ease, or solve any problem. I cannot count how many times you helped us, in Ehugbo, Lagos, Abuja, etc.
Who are we to ask Father Almighty, why her, or why him, why this time. He has all of us at the palms of His hand. He has it great for us, in His kingdom.
Brother Joe, continue to rest peacefully in God’s presence. -
MR. JOSEPH ANWARA – SHOUT OUT TO A HUMBLE & COMPASSIONATE MENTOR!
I received the shocking news of your departure from this world with a deep sense of loss. The time I visited you, I could have sworn that the storm was over. And was sure you were going to make it but God knows why.
For days, I kept playing back in my mind the events prior to and what happened during my last visit to you.
My wife told me prior to my last visit that you repeatedly asked her “how is my friend?” Hmmmmmm, I did not know that you wanted to bid me farewell because during my visit you did not say a word but kept nodding your head.
This is my tribute to a selfless, inspirational and loving friend. A kind hearted father, neighbour, with the fear of God as his watchword.
I still recall that you always inquire about my wife and children, especially the children, I would never forget all the encouragements you gave to me when my first child was seeking admission into the university in 2020. You took it upon yourself to introduce us to a good and reputable continuous education institute for his JAMB lesson and neither will I forget how you consistently followed up on him till he gained admission the same year and up till when you left us. I can never thank you enough.
So much to remember you for. Another unforgettable act of compassion I will never forget was the unfortunate incident that happened in the church involving my second child. You came to the house and spent valuable time with me without making mention of the incident but the kindness and solidarity you showed to me lifted my soul and made me to see that after all the situation was not that bad.
Also, you have raised God fearing and responsible children who have made us proud in our Christian community of St. Lawrence Catholic Church, Paiko, Idimu.
On behalf of my family, I want to say thank you for all you did to help and encourage us and to your dear wife, Big Sis, we pray that God in His infinite goodness will comfort and grant the entire family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.
I will carry your memory in my heart and strive to live up to the virtues I learnt from you sir!
Farewell, my “friend and mentor” until we meet again to part no more!Ayodeji Oduwole
St. Lawrence Catholic Church, Paiko, Idimu. -
FAREWELL NWAOHII IBE!!
Big Joe, as I fondly call you. If there was any news of death of a close person that sounded unbelievable for me, it was the news of your demise. It was like a bolt from the blue, when your sister in-law, Dr. Mrs Esther Okoh slipped in the sad news to me.
Indeed, that news reminded me of the frailty of life; that our sojourn on earth was a fleeting one as all of us are standing on a quick sand. Impliedly, when death strikes we accept it as one of those natural phenomena, as we have no remedy for it.
Nwaohii ibe, it’s the way of all. You have served your time and generations. All of us are in that queue, our time to step in depends on when that divine call is made by our creator. This was actually the position of St Augustine in that his timeless statement on the transient nature of life when he said that from the very moment “we begin living in our mortal bodies, we’re steadily moving towards death.”
Big Joe, my cherished mate and friend, we will miss your life of simplicity, jovial spirit and warmth. I mean that your friendly disposition, amiable character which resonated your entire life, as you lived, will be profoundly missed. Happily these your attributes will surely live on in the hearts of those you left behind.
Big Joe, as you journey to the great beyond, we pray God to give your soul a peaceful repose. For your amiable wife and children you left behind we pray God to grant them the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.
Adieu Ichie Joseph Ezeali Anwara
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TRIBUTE TO MY DEAR BROTHER ICHIE JOSEPH ELEALI ANWARA (BRO JOE)
Dear Bro Joe,
I have so much to write about you but will write only very little because of space.Nonetheless, I must pay my tribute to a very dear and almost overprotective elder brother. Our closeness was cemented when I came to Lagos for the first time in 1979 on the invitation of our late elder brother, Late Mike Oka Anwara. You all were proud of my O Level GCE results and surprised that I was preparing to write the A levels while still in Class 4. You then took me as your personal project and worked with Late Oniikara Francis Chukwu Okoh to provide me all available assistance to help me deal with the dreaded West African Examinations Council. You got me past questions papers and marking schemes of WAEC, some exam success manuals and Economics Made Easy by BM Manu. You and Late Oniikara Francis Chukwu Okoh were also candidates for the A Level GCE and we read in the nights together. You also used to take me to read at Ahmadiya College in Agege. So, I owe my excellent A Level results to your support and see you as one of those who prepared me for greatness.
I lived with you and brother Mike for about a month when I passed out from NDA in June 1984 because I did not know how to cook. You took me to Oshodi market and I bought all that I needed to start life. You took me to my house and stayed to give me a coaching on how to cook. You and Francis Inya Azu checked on me regularly to ensure I was well. My house in Isolo was our house. We partied; we enjoyed life. You loved me; my promotion made you happy.
As a younger brother, I played my part by standing with you at your ups and downs. I had no inkling that you would leave so soon and was very shocked to learn of your demise. I am very sad and can only say:
Rest well in the Lord, Bro Joe.
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Death as is said has no discrimination. It can happen to anyone at any time , It can come when we least expect it.
The news of your demise came to me as a big shock . It beat my imagination to hear that another of my big uncle is gone.
When I remember the time we spent together and the conversations we had during my uncle’s burial last year, it still marvels me to hear that you are no more.
Uncle Joe as we call him was a good man, always willing to help, he was my confidant during my early years in Lagos. He gave me numerous advices and support that I needed each time I call on him for one issue or the other.
I will forever miss you.
Goodbye till we meet to part no more. -
In the few years I have stayed on earth , I have been blessed with many fathers who have taken personal interest in my life and what I do as a person to become a better man and one of them was Big daddy Joe , Your heart was a sanctuary of kindness,Your words were gentle , Your actions thoughtful , Your presence comforting.
In every memory, You remain a steady loving force , We miss your kind eyes , Your hearty laugh and your unwavering support .
Rest peacefully, Big daddy Joe – Your legacy of love will forever live on
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