By Ruth Akpan
The ancient city of Ile-Ife was recently lit as the Ayoade family rolled out the drums to celebrate the life well lived of their matriarch, Princess Mojisola Adepate Ayoade, who slept in the Lord at the ripe age of 94.
The two-pronged funeral service started with a wake which was a solemn affair that had sessions of hymns, Bible readings and prayers. The venue was the Crystal Heritage Event Centre, Parakin Estate, Ile Ife where Ministers from St. Peter’s Anglican Church coordinated proceedings.
In the course of the event, time was allocated for tributes and many speakers spoke glowingly of the late Princess Ayoade.
She was described as grace-personified, resilient, generous and passionate about God’s work and community development.
The next day, her remains left in a motorcade for St. Peter’s Anglican Church, Iremo Road, Ile Ife where it was received by ministers and members of the church.
In his funeral sermon, Ven. Oluwatunmise Oluwasola, drew inspiration from the biblical verse, ‘To everything there is a season’, saying that Princess Ayoade lived the way of God and impacted so many people and generations.
He emphasized that people should learn to embrace God and love one another just as the deceased did.
Late Princess Ayoade was later interred at a private ceremony attended only by members of her family.
Guests were later treated to a wonderful reception at Ojaja Arena, Ife Grand Resort & Industrial Hub, Ile-Ife.
Planned by Hots Events, guests were well entertained as food and drinks were aplenty. The music too was topnotch as Qband delivered melodious songs thrilling guests till late into night.
The Chairman, Ovation Media Group, Aare Dele Momodu, top the list of the roll call of distinguished guests that graced the occasion.
Princess Mojisola Adepate Ayoade (nee Aderemi), a tireless philanthropist will be deeply missed by the people of Ile-Ife, who admired her dedication to the development of the community. She was more than just a remarkable individual, she was a pillar in her community, a source of wisdom and a guiding light for many.
Though the Ayoade and Aderemi families were downcast at the news of the demise on April 25, 2025 at the age of 94, they were grateful that she lived a life of impact and emulation through her generosity and kindness and was qualified for heavenly rest.
