Remembering Mrs. Oluronke Salako: A Legacy of Kindness and Reflection

BY ABU-SATAR HAMED

ILARO-YEWA, OGUN STATE, NIGERIA – On Saturday, August 3, 2024, the sun cast long shadows over the tranquil Oke-Ela area of Ilaro-Yewa in Ogun State as mourners gathered to honour Mrs. Oluronke Abosede Salako, who had profoundly impacted many lives.

The gathering at her residence was a testament to her enduring influence and the depth of the loss felt by those who knew her.

Fondly known as Mama Feyi, Mrs. Salako’s unexpected death on Monday, July 29, 2024, after a brief illness, left a significant void.

Her death served as a stark reminder of the fleeting nature of life and underscored the importance of living virtuously.

At her home, where grief and reflection mingled, clerics and sympathizers came together.

The makeshift church was elegantly adorned with white and green lilies, providing a peaceful setting for a service that celebrated Mama Feyi’s life while acknowledging the universal truth of mortality.

Evangelist Popoola Afolabi from Christ Bethel Anglican Church, Ilaro-Yewa, led the service with a solemn demeanor that commanded respect.

His eyes, though clouded with sadness, were bright with a determined spirit as he delivered a eulogy that would resonate long after the service ended.

“Brothers and sisters,” Evangelist Popoola began, “we gather not only to mourn Abosede’s death, but to reflect on the lessons her life teaches us.

“Death is a truth we all must face. It reminds us that our time is limited and urged us to live with purpose.”

He allowed a moment of silence for his words to settle, and the congregation listened intently, their faces reflecting a mix of sorrow and contemplation.

“Abosede Salako lived with an open heart,” Evangelist Popoola continued. “Her life was a testament to compassion, humility, and service.

“She demonstrated that true worth is measured not by material success but by the goodness and impact one leaves behind.”

His gaze scanned the attendees, connecting with those who knew Mama Feyi intimately and those who had only known her through her deeds.

In their separate sermons, Pastor Olubisi Bankole and Pastor Bello from the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Ilaro-Yewa, spoke of death as a natural part of the human journey.

They emphasized that while death should not be feared, it should motivate us to live meaningfully and generously during our limited time.

Their messages struck a chord with the attendees, who reminisced about Mama Feyi’s numerous charitable acts and her unwavering support for local causes.

Her strength and kindness had been a cornerstone of their community.

As the service drew to a close and Mrs. Salako’s remains were laid to rest, the mourners departed with heavy hearts but were uplifted by the poignant messages shared.

The final farewell was marked by the sharing of stories about her life and the inspiration she provided.

The impact of Mrs. Oluronke Abosede Salako’s death prompted a wave of reflection among those present. Her legacy lived on through the acts of kindness and communal support that emerged in her memory.

Her death served as a powerful reminder of life’s transience and the importance of purposeful living.

Mrs. Salako’s life, and her death, left an enduring imprint on the hearts of those she touched, encouraging them to lead lives filled with meaning and good deeds.

Among the mourners were her family, friends, colleagues, and students from the Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro, where she had worked.

Notable attendees included the Rector of FPI, Dr. M.A. Akinde; Arc. Segun Aluko PhD, immediate past Rector; Mr. Moruf Akinola, FPI’s Bursar; representatives of FPI NASU, ASUP, SSANIP, Students Union, Deans, Directors, HOD Hospitality Mgt, members of Senior Staff Club; members of Recreation Club Ilaro; siblings, friends, and relatives among others.

Mrs. Oluronke Abosede Salako, who died at the age of 46, is survived by her husband –Mr. Olufemi Salako (Barry), daughter, aged mother, siblings, friends, and relatives.

About Idowu Hamed

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