This Day Six Years Ago.

This Day Six Years Ago.
by Kunle Ojeleye

He was to turn 80 in August 2016.
He had never celebrated any birthday to talk less of a milestone.
I had asked him very early in the year what he would like to do, and he expressed the desire to have a short celebration around the presentation of his autobiography.

March 2016, the unexpected happened.
While at a public function, he suddenly realised he could barely get up from his seat after the event ended.
As stubborn as he could sometimes be, he forced himself with the aid of others to get up, got into his car and drove himself home.
He had suffered a stroke.

As such, by the time he turned 80,
He was recuperating, and all focus was on his health than any celebration.

Early January 2017, during a phone call, he asked me if he could make a request.
“Omo, if it is possible, I would like to make a public presentation of my autobiography, devoid of any other activities.”
I asked him what dates he was considering.
He responded that he would not mind the event holding a year after he had a stroke, as a mark of thanksgiving to God for the extra lease of life.

On 04 March 2017, the public presentation of “A Grace-Filled Life: An Autobiography of Joseph Olalere Omolayo Ojeleye” took place at the newly constructed Gbongan City Hall.

As I went through the pictures of the event today, tears welled in my eyes.
Tears of joy mixed with sadness.

Sad that a number of very close family and friends that surrounded us with their love and support are no longer with us. I sorely miss Daddy Babalakin, Uncle Odeleye, Aunty Olawuni, Alagba Ojo (Ojus Photos), Uncle Zacheaus, and Sister Rotimi.

Joyful we were able to pull together a descent presentation, within a short notice that made Dad happy.
Joyful that God granted him extra grace-filled years, before calling him home, 17 days after his 85th birthday.

Facebook Post: 2023-03-03 T23:03:32