TO SERVE THE PRESENT AGE

"To serve the present age,

My calling to fulfill:

Oh, may it all my powers engage

To do my master's will!"

-- By Charles Wesley

Lucy Akosua Takyiaw Edusei, born on February 19, 1925, in the midst of the Harmattan season, entered this world as a gift to her family. She was the fourth child of Opanyin John Kwame Bawuah Bonsafo Edusei of Sewuah, Ashanti, and Obaapanyin Madam Amba Smithwaa of the Twidan Ebusua of Kawanupaado, Coronation, Cape Coast. She was affectionately named “Ewuraba Lucy” after her birth followed three male siblings, a cherished daughter in a family of love and warmth to be raised in the Fanti and Ashant, Akan traditions.

From her earliest years, Madam Lucy Akosua Takyiaw Edusei displayed an exceptional vibrancy, which was evident in her passion for dancing. As a child, she attended Government Girl’s School, Kumasi where she caught the eyes of Mr. Colinwood Williams, a local dance instructor who was selecting students to participate in a dance competition. Her dancing skills were exceptional, and she was chosen to compete. However, when her father saw the public display of contestants’ photos posted at the Town Hall, he was not pleased with the attention and decided to withdraw her from the Government Girls’ School. Madam Lucy Edusei was then transferred to Roman Girls’ School, where she completed her formal education. 

Though her dancing career was cut short, her love for dance remained. As an adult, she enjoyed attending dancing halls in Kumasi,   continuing   to   embrace  the rhythm that had defined her youth.

After completing her schooling, Madam Lucy Edusei moved on to St. Mary's Vocational School in Cape Coast, headed by Auntie Faustie, where she majored in seamstress training. Armed with this skill, she returned to Kumasi and worked as an independent  seamstress,  renowned  for her   craftsmanship.  In  addition  to  her sewing skills, Auntie Lucy was a talented singer, often singing while sewing, bringng her craft to life with melodies.

Her  beauty  and  grace   earned  her  the honor of being maid of honor on three separate occasions, a role she performed with elegance and  poise. She first served as maid  of honor for Mrs. Agnes Owusu, then Mrs. Georgina Edusei, and later, Mrs. Agatha Aikins.

As a devout Catholic, Madam Lucy was a faithful member of the Order of St. John's, embodying a spirit of service and dedication to her faith. This commitment to her religion and community was a key part of her character, shaping the way she lived her life.

In time, Madam Lucy Edusei married Mr. R.K. Abaka  (Ebo), a distinguished employee  at  the  Ghana   Post  Office.  Together, they moved to Saltpond, where they started their married life. However, after some years in Saltpond, Auntie Lucy returned to Kumasi, where she  began working as a seamstress at Yaa Asantewaa Secondary School, contributing to the school's community in  her own unique way

Her career took a significant turn in 1962 when  she   Was   employed  at   Komfo Anokye Nursing Training School (NTC) as the Senior Resident House-Keeper. She also served as the Matron for (NTC), taking on responsibilities that showcased her organizational skills and commitment to service.   Her  work at  the   hos pita I          was deeply appreciated by all who knew her, and she remained a valuable part of the institution until her retirement in 1987. Madam Lucy Edusei was also one of the main  product Distributor of the Pyrex Cooking Products and Accessories for the Kumasi area for so many years.

Following her retirement, Madam Lucy Edusei enjoyed a peaceful life at her residence in Kwadaso Estate in Kumasi, surrounded  by family and  friends. Her  life had  been  one of service, love, and  commitment to those around her, and she embraced her later years with the same grace  and  dignity that had  defined her earlier years.

Sadly, on the morning of February 8, 2025, while having her breakfast, Madam Lucy Edusei,  fell  ill.  She  was rushed to the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, where she gave up her spirit on arrival. Her passing  marked the end  of an era, but her legacy lives on in the hearts of those she left behind-her family, her friends, and all those who had the privilege of know• ing   her.  Madam  Lucy  Akosua Takyiaw Edusei,  was  blessed   with  the  late  Mr. Edwin Asare, Ms. Edwina Asare and her grandson, Mr. Calistus Edwin Opoku. Praise be to God.

Madam Lucy Akosua Takyiaw Edusei's memory will forever be cherished by her children, grandchildren, and all who were fortunate to share in her life's journey. The love, service, and compassion she showed will continue to inspire those who knew her, and her name will forever be a beacon of strength, grace, and unwavering love.

FARE THEE WELL, OBAAPANIN LUCY, MAY THE  GREAT SPIRIT  ABOVE, THE GOD OF ALL CREATION GIVE YOU REST, PEACE IN HIS BOSSOM CARE. AMEN,

A LIFE OF SERVICE AND DEDICATION

Madam Lucy Akosua Takyiaw Edusei, affectionately called "Ancy"  by her grandchildren, was not only a loving matriarch but also a woman of immense strength and dedication. She touched the lives of many through her work, her service, and her love for those around her. She was a woman whose presence was both comforting and inspiring. Her life is a true testament to the power of faith, family, and community.