Eulogy of Mrs. Anthonia Lucy Inyinbor
My name is Aikosaihoria Mathina Ofure, and it is a profound honor to speak about Mrs. Anthonia Lucy Inyinbor, whom we affectionately call Mama Matron. Today, we gather not in sorrow, but in celebration of a remarkable life, well lived that touched many hearts and uplifted a community.
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Mama Matron was an inspiration of light in Uromi, where she lived before joining her children in Europe. Thirty-seven years ago, I was born in her clinic in Uromi, a place where she devoted herself to the well-being of countless families. She wasn’t just a caregiver; she was a mother to an entire community, the people of Uromi.
She had nine children, all of whom are thriving, a testament to her nurturing spirit and unwavering support. If you look at each of them here today, you will see the reflection of Mama in them. As Mr. Faraday Ebose the chairman has said, we are here to celebrate a life well-lived.
Mama Matron’s selflessness knew no bounds. She ran her clinic out of her own pocket, supported by her children, and provided care to those who needed it most. She was more than a healthcare provider; she was:
- A Source Of Encouragement,
- A Giver,
- An Advocate,
- And A Voice For The Voiceless.
If I were to give her a name of honor, I would call her the “Mother of Mothers”.
In our community, women who lacked support during pregnancy or childbirth turned to Mama Matron’s clinic rather than the general hospital. She was a trusted guardian and a prayer warrior who infused her work with faith and compassion. I remember how she would pray while delivering babies, creating an atmosphere of hope and divine intervention.
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Mama Matron’s generosity extended beyond financial constraints. She often provided care for those who couldn’t afford it, ensuring their safety and well-being. She once told me that all she truly wanted was for the women and children to be alive and healthy.
My father, who held Mama Matron in high esteem, often took my siblings to her clinic. Even if we couldn’t pay immediately, she never turned us away. Her dedication to our family’s well-being, and many others, was unwavering.
Years later, after I had moved away from Uromi, I found myself longing to reconnect with Mama Matron. I didn’t understand why at the time, but later, my mother shared a story that illuminated everything.
One day, when I was an infant, my mother left me at home to go to the market. Upon her return, she found my hair cut and discovered that I had fallen ill. Distressed, she took me to Mama Matron.
Furious, Mama demanded to know why my hair had been cut, as it was believed to be the cause of my illness. Mama Matron fiercely admonished my mother, warning her to prioritize my well-being and never leave me in such a vulnerable state again.
My mother recounted this story to explain why Mama Matron held such a special place in my heart. It became clear to me why my bond with her was so strong.
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Years later, by a twist of fate, I encountered Mama Matron’s first daughter, Prophetess Priscilla, in a street market in Verona. Recognizing each other as sisters from Uromi, we embraced warmly. I was overjoyed to learn that Mama Matron was well.
Visiting her, embracing her, and thanking her in person with my husband by my side was a moment I will cherish forever.
Mama Matron was an extraordinary woman who dedicated her life to selfless service for the people of Uromi. Her impact on our community is indelible, and today, we celebrate her legacy and the countless lives she touched.
Mama Matron’s example teaches us to help others in any way we can, without waiting for the government to step in. As I conclude this speech, on behalf of every mother and child born in Mama Matron’s clinic, I say:
Thank you, Mama Matron, for everything. Thank you to Mama Matron’s biological children for sharing her with us. We pray for you and your generations, that you will never lack help, and that God will bless you with every good thing in life, in Jesus’ name.
Want to learn more about storytelling? Start by downloading the first chapter of The Storytelling Mastery.
