Obaapanyin Lucy Akosua Takyiaw Edusei

66 I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith. Now there is stored for me the crown of righteousness which the Lord, the righteous judge will give me on that day (2 Timothy 4:7-8) 46 We received the sad news of our beloved sister Lucy Edusei on 8th February, 2025. ; Sister Lucy Edusei was initiated in to St. Theresa of The Child Jesus Society, Basilica branch in the year 1973. She was very active, punctual and committed in all societal activities. The sudden death of our beloved sister came as a shock to us. It was our wish to celebrate her 700th birthday with her, but whom are we to question God who giveth and taketh in his own appropriate time. Sister Lucy, may your God who fashioned you the way that you were, forgive you all your sins and cleanse your iniquities. May our Patron Saint, St. Theresa intercede for you by picking her sweet flowers from heaven to guide you find favor in the sight of your Maker. Fare thee well sister Lucy. Onua Damirifa!!!

The angel of the Family is Woman. Mother, wife, auntie, grandmother, or sister, Woman is the caress of life, the soothing sweetness of affection shed over its toils, a reflection for the individual of the loving providence which watches over Humanity. In her, there is treasure enough of consoling tenderness to allay every pain. Moreover, for every one of us, she is the initiator of the future. (Giuseppe Mazzini, Italian nationalist and patriot -1805-1872) In the Akan adage, they say: "Obra Twa Wuo", and yes, as human beings, we know death is a certainty. However, at one hundred years, we got so used to our Auntie Lucy, her kindness, sweet talks, enviable cuisines, and deep love to the extent that we forgot the fact that there is death for her to face. Having been the first in the family to clock the full century, she became an undisputed matriarch. She became a paragon of history and wisdom, and visiting her was like going on a pilgrimage. As has been stated in her biography, Auntie Lucy, as we all called her, lived at House No NTER 367, Fante New Town, the family house at Dunkirk most of her working life. Those of us who also lived there enjoyed her the most. We relished her tasty meals, especially her exclusive biscuits. Also, being a matron meant she always came home with something to entice us. Our Auntie Lucy was a beautiful woman who believed not only in dressing decently but fashionably. We looked up to her, and she admonished us if we strayed in any way. As a proud Edusei/Osei Kwabena family member, she had the family disciple instilled in her, and she ensured we also lived by the tenets and high norms expected of us. A top socialite, Auntie Lucy, was seen at most of our family functions, it could be our marriage, outdooring, birthday parties, or funerals. She would travel to anywhere in Ghana to support us. She was never tired of us, and she only slowed down when very old age caught up with her; even then, she always delegated and contributed accordingly. Auntie Lucy, we are grateful for all the love you showed us in your lifetime. We thank the Almighty God for giving us such a lovely Auntie. We will forever miss you. We recognise you for your love. We salute you for your dedication. We hail you for your knowledge. Rest In Perfect Peace, Auntie Lucy

It is heart breaking to accept that you are no longer with us, Antie Lucy. 0 how I wish I could resurrect you, Antie Lucy. Life has taken away something valuable from us. I will never be able to let go of my sorrow. Your memory is treasured and your life was a blessing. You are adored beyond words and you will be missed greatly. There is so much I want to say, Antie Lucy, but I am comforted by the fact that I have spent so much time with you since I was a child till now, and I cherish every moment of it. I remember when I was in the primary school, after close of school, I will come home and there will be no food in the house. I will be angry and she tell me I shouldn't worry food will be ready very soon. She will walk to to the kitchen and prepare food, Just some few minutes later she will call Nana Poku food is ready. She will scoup my first and wait till I finish eating before she will eat hers. I will ask her why do you do this and her response is, you are my GENTLEMAN. Oh death! Why do you keep doing this to us? I still have a lot to say to you Antie Lucy. I am not sure how I am going to summarize several years of Happy memories into a few paragraphs. It will be impossible for me to relive every moment of my life with you. Is because of this that I will keep them in my heart for the rest of my life. I recall all of your humorous remarks that made us laugh out loud. The purity of your heart was unwavering and you never made any distinction between a child and an adult. You treated everyone with fairness and respect. You looked me in the eyes and told me the truth when I did something wrong then you drew me closer and showed your love. I will never, ever forget you, Antie Lucy. You taught me to respect and adored God. This, I believe has had a major influence on my life. You were truly God's gift to this family and even though you are no more with us, I believe you are constantly interceding for me. Antie Lucy, i miss you but I know you are happily in the Company of your creator. l appreciate you teaching me all of the most important lessons that a grandson requires of his grandmother. In every situation you gave your all. When I was unwell, you looked after me until! I recovered and you did the same for us all. How can I forget about all this? Life is cruel and is always ready to take away the things that makes us happy. You contributed so much even to the point of assisting in the cooking ,baking of cakes and frying of chips. You were a true angel and I learned a great deal from you. I shared my deepest secrets with you, my grandma, mother and confidante. I stand here with a heavy heart to bid farewell. But there is light after the darkness. I will always remember your life as a tribute to the one-of-a- kind grandmother God blessed me with. Rest in peace Antie Lucy.

66 John 15:12 This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. 66 A Mother to All, A Guiding Light in Our Lives, A love divine. Life's greatest blessings, is to find oneself embraced by a family that not only welcomes you but truly accepts and cherishes you. To be loved, supported, and valued as an integral part of a new family is a privilege not everyone experiences. Yet for us, being in-laws to Madam Lucy Akosua Takyiaw Edusei was not merely about becoming part of both the Adwoa Essuon, Smithwaa Descendant Family and Edusei, Osei Kwabena family by name-it was about gaining a mother, a mentor, and a friend whose love and guidance knew no boundaries. From the moment we became a part of this incredible family, Auntie Lucy-our beloved matriarch-made sure we felt at home. She treated us not as in-laws but as her own, embracing us with warmth, sincerity, and unwavering affection. Her kindness was not superficial; it was deeply rooted in her character. She made it a point to foster unity, ensuring that no one ever felt like an outsider. A Woman of Grace, Love, Compassion and Wisdom Auntie Lucy was more than just a woman of her time; she was a woman ahead of her time-full of wisdom, understanding, and boundless love. She had an extraordinary ability to make people feel seen and heard, always listening with an open heart and offering words of encouragement. In a world where relationships can sometimes be strained or conditional, she was a beacon of hope, reminding us all of the true essence of family: love, acceptance, and togetherness. She never allowed differences to create divisions; instead, she worked tirelessly to bring people closer, bridging gaps with her humility and kindness. She was a woman who understood the weight of responsibility-both within the home and in the broader family structure. She carried herself with dignity, fulfilling her traditional and customary duties with a deep sense of pride and purpose. Yet, beyond duty, she gave something far greater-her heart. She never sought recognition or praise for her sacrifices; she gave selflessly, simply because it was in her nature to love and care. A Matriarch Who United and Inspired. Auntie Lucy's home was always open, not just in a literal sense but in the warmth of her spirit. Whether we were near or far, she kept us connected, ensuring that we always felt a sense of belonging. Distance was never a barrier to her love-whether in Ghana, England, the USA, Germany, Canada, or Belgium, she found ways to make sure we remained part of each other's lives. She believed in the power of unity and togetherness, and she embodied these values in every aspect of her life. She never played favorites, never sowed discord-only harmony. Her wisdom guided us in difficult moments, and her laughter uplifted us in times of joy. She was a mother not just by blood, but by the sheer force of her love and commitment to family. Her presence was a gift, her words were a comfort, and her love was a foundation upon which we built our own families. She gave us strength, reassurance, and a sense of home-no matter where we were in the world. Her Legacy Lives On As we bid farewell to our beloved Auntie Lucy, we do so with heavy hearts, yet immense gratitude. Though she is no longer with us in body, her spirit remains woven into the fabric of our lives. The love she shared, the lessons she taught, and the bonds she nurtured will continue to guide us. We take solace in knowing that her journey does not end here. She has left behind a legacy of love-a legacy that will continue to thrive in the hearts of those she touched. Her life was a testament to the power of kindness, patience, and unwavering faith in family. Rest well, our dearest Auntie Lucy. You have fought the good fight, you have run the race, and you have left behind a world that is richer because you were in it. Your love transcended the boundaries of marriage and blood, and in our hearts, you will always remain. FAREWELL, With love, respect, and deep gratitude, REST WELL, Auntie Lucy, GOD LOVES YOU, so do we. AMEN. Your In-Laws

She was a MOTHER PAR EXCELLENCE, A mother, my mother, our Mother. At a very young age, my father linked her to me. Many times before my Dad leaves for work, Papa will tell me: John, finish your activities quickly and GO TO YOUR MOTHER she will always have some good food for you to enjoy. This went on for a very long time and I never understood my father for the regular, go to your MOTHER, go to your MOTHER In fact, sometimes he will REPRIMAND me if he returned from work to know that I Didn't go to Auntie Lucy, as per his request on that day. Many years on, I got to know the wisdom behind what my father were doing. I became very close to ANCY and very concerned. She equally reciprocated that Concern, Care, Love, and Affection. It was so heartwarming to hear her call me PAAPA. "PAAPA wo ho ste den", Ohoooooo yes, this SWEET VOICE will forever echo in my heart. She insisted that I was her father and so much so, that in her presence she will not accept any close family member Calling me Kweku or Bewuah. She insisted on PAPA or PAAPA. Auntie Lucy was so Humble, Caring and affectionate. She was full of Gratitude, with a very high sense of APRECIATION. Sometimes, something very small, but the Smiles and the Joy with which she receivies, was so Amazing, baffling and UNBELIEVABLE. Her compassion, kindness and unwavering support, touched the lives of everyone around her. A life of rich tapestry of experiences, and wisdom that guided us through countless challenges. Not until very late in my age, did I get to know that I was sharing the same BIRTHDAY with ANCY. Possibly one of the main reasons why my Dad will link me up to her, at my very young age. The 19th of FEBRUARY then became a special day for me, not for the celebrations of my own Birthdays, but the Celebrations of her Birthdays. Special references to her 90th Birthdays to KTI, the 95th Birthday and of course the Great 100TH BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS, that was not to be. Ohoooooo, how wonderful the celebrations would have been. The Euphoria, the Joy, the Ecstacy, the Pump and Pageantry. Indeed, it was a Special Occasion we missed so dearly. Not my 67th Birthday, but yours and your 100th Birthday alone. Last year when I turned 66 years, Obaapanin Lucy was 99 years. HOW BEAUTIFUL THE NUMBERS WERE. BUT THE GOOD LORD KNOWS BEST. IT'S OUR OPPORTUNITY TO ALSO PREPARE FOR OUR INEVITABLE END, BECAUSE THE WHOLE DUTY OF MAN, IS TO FEAR GOD AND KEEP HIS COMMANDMENTS. REST WELL MUM, 10 DECADES OF LIFE WAS GREAT AND NOTHING BUT A BLESSING. WE WILL FOREVER CELEBRATE YOU, BECAUSE YOU WILL FOREVER BE IN OUR HEARTS. TILL WE MEET AGAIN, MUM, REST WELL, IN THE BOSSOM OF OUR MAKER. AMEN. PAABEWUAH

I had a special relationship with my darling Sister Obaapanin Lucy Akosua Takyiaw Edusei that transcends my childhood at our father's mansion in Fanti New Town through my training at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital to even when I was in USA and on my return to Ghana till the day she went to the village. It was an unshakable bond based on trust, respect, love and principles we both inherited from our great father Grand Patriarch Edusei Piesie: Nana John Kwame Bawuah Bonsafo Edusei. Obaapanin Lucy Edusei had excellent culinary skills fine turned by her dear mother Obaapanin Joana Amba Smistewaa training. Since I had constant opportunities to enjoy her excellent meals, it strengthened our bond even further, as I was always invited to enjoy her unique and tasty recipes. She used these culinary skills to bound family and friends together and as diplomatic accumen to settle misunderstandings. Obaapanin Lucy Edusei was a lady of peace, she rather we all had lots of joy most of the ti me. In my younger days, I noticed my sister had excellent dancing skills like our father. The joy in her face whiles dancing was infectious. Above all my dear Sister Lucy Edusei was a hard worker. waking up early in the morning to go to work to prepare meals for nurses every day without fail. My mother, Madam Mildred Ancobia whiles on her way to daily morning service at Adum Methodist Church, will join my Sister Lucy on their joint early morning trek to Adum. Obaapanin Lucy Edusei had a unique recipe for biscuits that my Uncle Patriarch Nana James Edusei encouraged her to commercialize. But my dear Sister Lucy kept these biscuits to the Edusei family exclusively. Am glad she passed the recipe to her dear daughter Edwina. I have lost a dear Sister and am not ashamed to admit I cried like a baby when I heard of her passing. I will miss her dearly as in all my visits, she was always sharp. The last visit few weeks to her passing, she stated her full date of birth to me and was very wel I oriented. The lord knows best. My dear Sister you left the world peacefully and I know you are in the bosom of God Almighty. EDUBA Rest well, till we meet again

Grief can cause us to reconsider things in our lives to recognize what is really important. Ante Lucy, my son and I are very grateful God chose to blessed as with the Greatest mom ever lived. It heartbreaking for me to stand here to read this. But I know you are with your creator. You have taken very good care of me and my son and we are always grateful. God bless you. May the good Lord keep you in His bossom. I love you. Ante Lucy saw beauty in everything in life. She was a woman of God. She instilled her faith and believe in the Lord Jesus Christ. One of the things I am proud to tell of is her Giving to the needy. Her watchword as a Christian was HOSPITALITY. She taught us, it is more blessed to give than to receive. She was a generous woman and grateful for everything you do for her. Ante Lucy cherished her culture and made sure I teach my son the fante language. She gets angry whenever I do the opposite. She was a woman of great class and grace even when she advanced in age, she still took pride in her independent. One lesson I learnt from her and it stuck with me was, when I was growing up she pulled me aside and told me I was her LADY. What she meant by that was she wanted me to rise above petty quarrels and to live up to my name EDWINA. Ante Lucy, I honour you and praise the Lord for a virtuous mother with value so great. Nothing on earth can compare or replace your love and impart on me and many others. I know that I have the best mother of mothers. THE EDUSEI AND OSEI KWABENA FAMILY HAS LOST SOMETHING PRECIOUS.

We have lost the oldest Edusei at this stage of our lives: OBAAPANIN LUCY AKOSUA TAKYIAW EDUSEI. A Centenarian who was also a rare gem, her lead to great sorrow across our whole great family. We were preparing a full celebration of her birthday, an anticipated function that had electrified the whole family across the Globe. You could feel the exceeding excitement across all age groups. All family members were preparing to have a happy time and use the opportunity to rekindle our spirits, as we have recently lost some of our dear little and kin. On her day of passing which was on the 8th of February, Ancy had woken up and was having her breakfast in front of her residence at kwadaso estate in a cheeeful mood by her grand son Calli. In the process of eating her grandson saw changes in her eating and called her mummy, Edwina and Antie Maggie her sister. When they came they told calli to go and bring a taxi to take Ancy to the hospital. She was rushed to the komfo Anokye teaching hospital, emergency unit. A rush to the emergency could not save her as she passed peacefully. The tasks assigned to organised her birthday extravaganza party in her father's grand house at Fanti New Town (Famous NTER 367) came to a hault. A mighty tree has fallen indeed, and the shocking reaction of the whole family was reverberating with great sorrow. Obaapanin Lucy Edusei was loved by all as she played her part to cement all of us together. She was very active in all family affairs and ensured all our functions were done to the high standard her great parents PATRIACH JOHN KWAME BAWUAH BONSAFO EDUSEI and OBAAPANIN JOANA AMBA SMITHWAA nurtured her with: Love, Unity and Service. She was our educator, counsellor, disciplinarian, and matron for many years. She also above all mothered us with alacrity, care, and love. We, on our part, appreciated and loved her in return. A typical Edusei/Osei Kwabena lady, her culinary skills were impeccable. She always had a variety of meals to feed us. She welcomed all to her father's house when she was young and followed the tradition when she moved to her own residence at Kwadaso Estate Kumasi. Numerous family members visited her to enjoy her hospitableness She travelled the length and breath of Ghana, visiting all facets of our great and big family, and kept us company at all manner of functions. Obaapanin Lucy Edusei was a hard worker and used her culinary skills to work her way up at Komfo Anokye Hospital Nursing School as a matron feeding countless nurses, staff their families and guests with a great heart of hospitality. These unique skills and joy continued throughout her retirement. She raised a lot of children in the family and helped to advance the achievement of their goals. The whole Edusei and Osei Kwabena family have lost a great Matriarch. We shall never forget her, and May She Rest Peacefully with God Almighty. EDU BA Damirifa Due Nyame nfa wo nsie yie. The whole family shall miss your dearly.