A Selfless Giver, A True Kingmaker, A Family Unifier, A Compassionate Shelter, A Beacon of Hope


Today, we gather with heavy hearts to remember and celebrate the life of a man who was more than just an Uncle to me and my siblings. He was a father, a mentor, a provider, and a beacon of hope in our lives. My dear Uncle, my mother’s younger brother, passed away unexpectedly, leaving behind an irreplaceable void in our hearts. Words alone cannot fully capture the magnitude of his kindness, generosity, and the profound impact he had on the lives of countless people.

My Uncle was a man of extraordinary selflessness, a quality that defined his life and legacy. He put others first, always. He lived not for his own comfort or gain but for the welfare and upliftment of others. His magnanimity knew no bounds. His heart, as vast as it was, held space for everyone—family, friends, strangers, even those who would seek to tear him down. His generosity didn’t discriminate. He helped those near and far, even his adversaries. Such was the depth of his compassion and the beauty of his spirit.

In all the years I knew him, I was privileged to witness his incredible acts of kindness. I managed his banking transactions/projects, often receiving his lists for disbursement—endless lists of people, both known and unknown, who were to benefit from his giving heart. He tirelessly sought to ensure no one was left behind. His strength lay not in acquiring wealth or status but in building people. He was a kingmaker in the truest sense, lifting others up, giving them the tools and opportunities they needed to succeed. He never stopped giving, never stopped believing in the potential of those around him, even when they faltered or turned against him. He was a builder of lives, a creator of hope, and for that, his legacy will endure far beyond his time here with us.

Uncle was a unifier who cherished the power of family bonds. He worked tirelessly to connect every relation, even distant relatives, under one umbrella, fostering peace, relationship, and growth among us all. Through his efforts, he brought family together, creating an extended circle of care and connection through every means available, including group chats, so no one felt alone or isolated. He was a safe haven for so many, sheltering those who had nowhere else to turn and extending his support generously, even to those outside the family.

I miss everything about him—the sound of his voice, his wisdom, his infectious optimism, his demeanor that was always calm yet confident. His presence brought a certain energy into the room, one that could uplift anyone who was fortunate enough to be around him. He had a unique charisma that drew people in and made them feel valued. He was a force of nature—someone whose very existence made the world a better place.

Uncle’s impact reaches beyond family to entire communities and generations. He embodied what it means to live a life of purpose, to serve others selflessly, and to leave the world better than he found it. Though the pain of his loss is indescribable, his spirit lives on through the countless lives he touched, the lessons he taught us, and the love he gave so freely.

Uncle, you may no longer be here with us in person, but your legacy will forever guide us. You are loved, cherished, and missed more than words can express. This candle, lit in your honor, represents the love and light you shared with the world. May your spirit rest in peace, and may your memory continue to be the blessing that leads us forward.

Rest in peace, my beloved Uncle. Your life was a gift to us all, and your memory will forever be etched in our hearts.

Chiamaka Ewelike Nee David Ogbonnaya Nwankwo