A LIFE OF FAITH, MOTHERHOOD, SERVICE AND GRACE REMEMBERED IN IBADAN
Ibadan stood still on Friday, 7th August 2026, as family members, friends, church leaders, associates and well-wishers gathered to celebrate the life and enduring legacy of Deaconess Mariam Omoriyeba Olawoyin (née Adeleke), who passed away at the age of 76.
It was a day of tears and thanksgiving, solemn reflection and joyful remembrance, as the family gave their beloved matriarch a befitting farewell after a life defined by faith, love, sacrifice, service and devotion to family.
The funeral service took place at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Yemetu, Ibadan, under the Diocese of Ibadan North, bringing together a congregation united by grief, gratitude and the Christian hope of eternal life.
A LIFE THAT BEGAN WITH PURPOSE
Born on 31st July 1950 at Aba Igbagbo, Olorunda, Ibadan, Oyo State, to Pa James Adeleke and Mama Adeoti Adeleke, Deaconess Mariam was raised with strong family and Christian values.
She attended Ebenezer Anglican School, Aba Igbagbo, and later became a devoted wife, loving mother, successful businesswoman and dedicated public servant.
In 1968, she married Chief Moses Olasunkanmi Olawoyin, and their union was blessed with children, grandchildren and a great-grandchild.
She began her career as a businesswoman before joining the Federal Government, where she served diligently for 35 years at the Military Central Ordnance Depot (COD), Odogbo Cantonment, Ibadan, retiring in 2013.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, however, her most enduring legacy was the love, wisdom and spiritual guidance she gave her family.
A PRAYERFUL WOMAN AND MOTHER OF GRACE
To her children, Deaconess Mariam was more than a mother. She was a teacher, counsellor, spiritual guide, confidante and pillar of strength.
Ronke Alawode (née Olawoyin) remembered her as “My Wonderful Mummy, My Mother, My Angel,” while Olawoyin Oluwaseun Abimbola paid tribute to his beloved mother.
Arc. Tosin Abiodun Olawoyin offered a deeply emotional farewell: “Your Ayinde, good night, Moomo mi.”
Olawoyin Olumide remembered her as a loving mother, teacher and spiritual guide, while Ibukun Olawoyin bid farewell to her beloved Mummy.
For Dcns. (IWM) Taiwo Oluranti Olawoyin, Mama was never simply a mother-in-law, but a true mother.
Her grandchildren, Olawoyin Samuel and Olawoyin Precious, also mourned a grandmother whose love and influence will continue through generations.
Her siblings and relatives, including ESV Olajumoke Bolanle Ayeni (née Adeleke) and ASP Folasade Ajekigbe (née Adeleke), also paid heartfelt tributes to her memory.
ROOTED IN FAITH AND HER HERITAGE
Faith was central to Deaconess Mariam’s identity. She was remembered as a prayerful woman whose devotion, counsel and spiritual guidance strengthened her family.
Her Oriki Mama, rendered in rich Yoruba tradition, celebrated her lineage, dignity, strength and ancestral heritage, serving as a powerful expression of the honour and affection attached to her name.
A SOLEMN WELCOME INTO THE HOUSE OF GOD
In keeping with Anglican funeral tradition, the service commenced with the solemn welcoming of Mama’s body into the church.
Bible readings, prayers and the funeral sermon followed. The sermon, titled “Preparing for Eternal Life,” drew from Romans 14:12, reminding the congregation that everyone will ultimately give an account of his or her life before God.
The clergy encouraged all present to examine their lives, pursue righteousness and live a life that pleases God, giving the funeral a profound spiritual dimension beyond the farewell itself.
FAMILY, FRIENDS AND DISTINGUISHED GUESTS
Mama’s children and family members filled the church alongside friends, associates and sympathisers who came from far and near to honour her memory.
Among the notable guests was Rotarian Layi Abidoye, District Governor of Rotary International District 9112, who attended with his wife, Dr. Mrs. Derin Abidoye, and members of his District Governor’s cabinet.
His presence was particularly significant because DG Layi Abidoye is a member of the Rotary Club of Gbagada, where Mama’s son, Rotarian Tosin Olawoyin, served as Immediate Past President.
Members of the Rotary Club of Gbagada were also strongly represented, standing in solidarity with their colleague and friend. Their presence reflected the Rotary spirit of Service Above Self, fellowship and compassion.
Earlier, the club had formally expressed its condolences to Rtn. Tosin and his family. The message was signed by Rtn. Adeyemi Lawal, President, 2026–2027, and Rtn. Joan Esho, Club Administration, on behalf of the Board of Directors and members.
*MOMENTS OF LOVE AND REMEMBRANCE*
Following the church service, the solemn atmosphere gave way to warm moments of family interaction.
A special photography session allowed family members, friends and guests to preserve cherished memories, while Mama’s children and relatives warmly welcomed those who had come to honour their mother.
The day continued with a warm reception, creating what could fittingly be described as a “Disneyland experience” — an atmosphere filled with hospitality, entertainment and celebration.
Guests enjoyed melodious music, special delicacies, cold beverages and drinks, creating an atmosphere where family and friends could relax, share memories and celebrate Mama’s remarkable life.
