Alice Aifekelu Airefetalor

Will always remember aunty for her charming smile and warmth...

Mrs Alice Airefetalor was wonderful to all who came her way. She was a virtuous woman and everyone can testify to that. She was lovely, beautifu, patient and kind to both rich and poor. People will remember her for her kindness to them. I can recall when our twins were called to bar in Abuja, she was in law school then. Immediately she heard that my husband, her brother was around for the ceremony, she came and was so happy to see him witness his children's call to bar. She was always concerned about his welfare. Just last month she was so concerned about him and wanted to see him. I told him about it and he eventually met with her and they were both happy to see each other. I never knew that was going to be the last day. She was so close to us and our children when they were growing up. Her home was also ours. She was always full of encouragement and was a shining star to many. Now that she is gone, many people will remember her for what she stood for. I know that she is not dead but has just changed her address because of her love for all and she still wants to extend it to others. I know she is resting in the bosom of the lord because she lived her life according to God's ordinance. May almighty God accept her soul into His Kingdom. Rest in perfect peace my dear sister-in-law until we meet to part no more.

It's so difficult to put my emotions into words. She was a mother to me, I called her Mummy from way back.She called me 'Omo' meaning my child.My heart is heavy, very heavy, I have vivid memories of those last moments.The Lord knows why he took you. Mummy, from when I got into UI through holidays and strikes especially with Efe joining me there, and Ivie studying Medicine also you assigned an 'elder' sister role to me. To housejob period when if I wasn't in ISTH, I was in the house, my dad of blessed memories would even come there if he needed to locate me( no mobile networks then). You were instrumental at my wedding and remained so in my life .You supervised the feeding arrangements at my dad's funeral. My mum and siblings were eternally grateful. You have transcended and left this mortal life, but as a Catholic, I believe you are interceding for us here. Your life of resilence and love is an example for me to follow. Your openness to all and devotion to God is to be emulated. Mummy, are you really gone?give me strength, and wisdom to be there for Efe, Ivie and Osose. Eternal rest grant unto her O Lord and perpetual light shine upon her and may she rest in peace.Amen

I received the news of Mama's passing and I still feel like it's not true. I thought I would be seeing her when I return to Nigeria. I still can't believe it. Death is but a stubborn mystery. Mama Doctor! Death! Such a beautiful soul, in and out. You were so kind, sociable, loving and generous, always calling to check on my mum and to visit her on behalf. I thought I'd be seeing you when I return next year but now I couldn't even be present to say goodbye at least for the last time. May our good God whom you served so well while here on earth with us, grant you the reward of heavenly rest. Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord. May her soul and the souls of all the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in peace. Amen. Fr. Thomas Oyode Rome

Dear Mummy, I can't believe that I have to write you a tribute now.... I had looked forward to celebrating with you at 80.....90 and even 100. I thought you will always be there and never imagined you will leave for a better place just yet... However, we continue to be consoled by the fact that you are seated in heaven with your fellow angels. Mummy, mummy, mummy… I am grateful for having you in my life right from childhood. It all started from Ivie and I being friends in primary school, to us becoming family friends and quickly becoming related and members of each other’s households. I enjoyed your warmth and your characteristic nature right from the beginning.... I have so many beautiful memories of you from the last 30+ years. I remember so many times, Ivie and I teased you behind your back and boldly began to tease you in your face as we grew older, the times I will be “upset” with you because you reprimanded Ivie and I will refuse to speak with you for days - you found that so hilarious.... looking back, it was clearly hilarious.... But, I could do all of that because you were so easy to be around and not the typical stern/harsh mother. You always spent time advising Ivie and I about the future …. sometimes, we rolled our eyes and laughed but always took away the lessons therein. I remember you visiting my home over 20 years ago when I was very ill and after my Mum had reported me to you about skipping my meals. Mummy, mummy ! You turned up putting on your nurse hat and with 5 large clinical books advising me sternly and lovingly on the need to eat more frequently. I remember our conversations before your grand 70th birthday celebration. All these memories remain etched in my heart, and I will surely continue to cherish them.... Your warmth, love and dedication were unmatched. I will miss your distinctive smile, beautiful long hair, elegance and warm conversations and loving mannerisms and Esan clichés. I will miss the way you always called me and said I was a good girl and a lovely daughter to you. I will miss you speaking Esan to me and asking me why I do not understand what you have said. Mummy, your exit will remain a shock. I remember you returning from work those days and complaining we had not eaten when it should have been the other way round... No doubt you were a good mother with a very warm and accommodating heart. Thank you for being a good role model and strong pillar to Efe and Ivie. Thank you for all your constant prayers, show of selflessness and love. Thank you for always opening your doors to everyone, # 1 Airefetalor Street was “home” to all because of you! While in university, we came in our numbers and spent hours in the house and kitchen baking, cooking and eating hot fresh bread from the bakery… you made us feel welcome and at home all the time, not just your kids immediate friends but the entire Esan community. You were always concerned when you didn't see me for a few days. Every time we met, you always would pat my back and say “Kemmy my daughter, you are a good girl, ote omo”. I am convinced Efe and Ivie will be taken care of, consoled, and continually guided by the spirit of God Almighty because you sowed immensely and selflessly into their lives. Osose will miss her loving grandma that showered her with unmatchable love. Your departure is very painful but as the saying goes “God knows when best to call His Angels home”. You will be greatly missed. Not just Illeh and Eguare, but the entire Esan and Catholic community has lost a great woman and an icon. Mummy, your memories will live on and will be held dearly in the hearts of those loved by you….x Kemmy Ikheloa (nee Agbogun)

Auntie Alice, you are gone and this loss is very very heavy to bear. I'm never ever going to hear my nickname CAPPEEEE!!! or CAPPUKO!!! or any of the wonderful variations of CAPTAIN you call me so lovingly. Auntie you were my second mum, you always praised me, you motivated me, you made me feel good about myself, you made me feel 100 feet tall, you gave so much love to me, my siblings and parents, Auntie Alice you were the best. I will aspire to be like you, always loving and caring for everyone. Goodbye Auntie Alice, I love you, I miss you!!!

Mummy, the news of your demise came as a shock to me. You were a pillar to my family and I. Your kind soul, wise counsel and outstretched hands can not be quantified. Your home was open to everyone, your hospitality made them feel special. You were the most humble, compassionate, understanding family oriented woman I have ever seen. You were so dear and so true. You had an indescribable inner strength. You were very energetic, highly organised and disciplined. Ooh sweet and admirable mama, who will say Peter, come and carry me to Benin or Peter, you're driving too fast? Few days before you passed on to glory, you called to check on me and my family and mandated me to go home on time for it was late already . I never knew that would be the last hearing from you. You were always there for me and my family. Your advice, your sacrifice and love will never be forgotten. You will forever live in our hearts Mummy. We love you so much. Continue to rest in the blossom of our Lord Jesus. Amen. Mr Peter Aluede.

Mummy your death came as a serious shock to my entire system …. You were so meek, gentle and very pretty… Until joyful activities may your soul awaken dear mummy … I’m pleased I saw you in august 2021 … thanks for all your prayers always. Efe and Ivie will be fine because according to my daddy ‘God doesn’t sleep’ … God loves you most mummy