By Seyi Gesinde
September 27, 2024
The matriarch of the Jaiyebo family from Ondo, Mama Joannah Modupe Jaiyebo (née Obasoro), was honoured at a service of songs on Thursday, September 26, 2024, at Charis Family International Church, Mokola, Ibadan.
Rev. Samson Ajetomobi, President of the Men of Issachar Vision Incorporated, led the ministration, reflecting on her remarkable life of resilience, discipline, and unwavering faith.
In his ministration, Rev Ajetomobi, who is also the the Chairman of Pentecostal Fellowhip of Nigeria (PFN), Oyo State, described the life of Mama Jaiyebo, born on July 27, 1929, and passed to eternal glory at the ripe age of 95, as a mother who left behind a rich legacy evident in the lives of her children.
The celebrated nonagenarian was the mother of Pastor Tunde Jaiyebo, Senior Pastor of Charis Family International Church, and his four siblings.
Her dedication to her family and commitment to Christian values were said to be the hallmarks of her life, inspiring generations.
Mama Jaiyebo, a qualified nurse, married the late Dr. E. O. Jaiyebo, but their time together was tragically cut short when she lost her husband in 1969 during her fifth pregnancy.
Opting to remain unmarried, she devoted herself to raising her children, instilling in them the values of hard work, discipline, and commitment to God.
During the service, family members and well-wishers shared heartfelt tributes, highlighting Mama Jaiyebo’s unwavering strength and the profound impact she had on their lives.
All the speakers regarded her as a beacon of strength and faith, acknowledging that her resilience in the face of adversity demonstrated that true strength comes from unwavering faith in God.
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Rev. Ajetomobi delivering a poignant sermon, described Mama Jaiyebo as “a woman of immense strength who embodied resilience and unwavering faith.”
He urged attendees to reflect on the brevity of life and the importance of leaving a lasting legacy, quoting 1 Corinthians 15:52: “In a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed.”
The reverend emphasised the significance of honouring one’s parents, stating, “Death is a common denominator; everyone shall die. If Methuselah didn’t die, he would still be here.
“It is a profound honour to give a befitting burial for your aged parents as a mark of respect, that they have lived well and raised good children.”
He further highlighted Mama Jaiyebo’s legacy, saying, “She was a strong woman, very strong indeed. Despite losing her husband early, she instilled discipline and self-control in her children. When a man dies, he should leave behind legacies, not troubles.”
Citing Psalm 22:30-31 (MSG), Rev. Ajetomobi added, “Our children and their children will get in on this as the word is passed along from parent to child. Babies not yet conceived will hear the good news—that God does what he says.”
He challenged the congregation to examine their own legacies, warning, “The moment we can’t see your values in your children, you are a failed parent. What will you leave behind for your children? Smart parents build value. You are looking for money, yet you raise a Rastafarian at home. That is failure.”
In a poignant reminder of the importance of parental guidance, he referenced Jeremiah 35:6-8: “The children were offered strong drink, but they replied, ‘We will not take the drink for our father taught us otherwise.’”
The service featured a moving solo performance from Akintayo Andrew, with family members joining in to celebrate Mama Jaiyebo’s legacy through song.
Rev. Israel Ariwajoye from Ondo, Mama’s home town, led the closing prayers, blessing the family and attendees.
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To aim it up, Mama Jaiyebo’s life serves as a toiching reminder that true wealth lies not in material possessions but in the values, discipline, and moral compass we pass on to future generations.
Her legacy of strength and faith will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her.
Speaking on behalf of her siblings and the entire family, Pastor Tunde Jaiyebo, thanked everyone who attended the programme, informing that their mother will be finally laid to rest on Friday, after a funeral service begining 10:00 AM at the Chapel of the Ressurection, at the University of Ibadan campus.
He extolled their mother’s virtues, corroborating the earlier speakers’ sentiments about her character and unwavering commitment to her family.
Pastor Jaiyebo’s heartfelt words resonated deeply with the congregation, reinforcing the profound legacy she left behind.
As the service concluded, attendees watched a moving pictorial show celebrating her life and times, offering a touching visual tribute to the cherished memories and lasting impact of Mama Joannah Jaiyebo.
