Cornelia Akpene Amatekpor

TRIBUTE TO SIS By Belinda Mawufemo Rejoice Amatekpor When I think about my big sister, sister Cornie, the most poignant characteristic that comes up for me is "selflessness". She was the most selfless person I know. She was the epitome of a true big sister who took care of her younger siblings and protected us and our interests. Growing up, she created opportunities for us socially and would spare her last by sacrificing her resources for us. I always share the story of how she would find the cutest outfits in the market, and instead of buying them for herself, she would visualize how it would look on her siblings and buy them for us. She would come home excited to show us what she got, call us and in Ga saying, "en3 l33 Belinda, eba sa bo". She had a fashion sense which she expressed boldly and enjoyed being complimented on her style. Her selflessness went beyond her siblings and touched others including her neighbors. At my last visit, I was skeptical about giving her some gifts because it was evident that the next person who showed up and asked for it, she would have parted with it. She had just given her cell phone to someone who she thought needed it more than she did. That was Cornie! This selflessness and love is part of her legacy that will live on through her siblings and children. Cornie was also accommodating and welcoming in nature. In spite of her own challenges, she brought joy and life to those around her. Cornie was an avid reader and had challenged herself to read the Bible front to back a few times. She knew her Word and could quote several verses for any situation. She loved the Lord and served her church as a chorister. In her elementary and secondary school careers, she took to sports and run track competitively. Cornie embodied the strength of the women in our family, their tenacity and resilience, and their zeal for life. Above all, their sacrifice to ensure that the next generation had it better than they did...I categorize her with my mom Fidelia, and her sister Aunty Mansah who have also gone before her under similar circumstances. Theirs and her legacy will live on in us, her children, and generations to come. Heaven has certainly gained another angel, sister Cornie, your leaving has left a heartache that no one can heal, but love does leave a memory that no one can steal. On angels wings, you were taken away, but in our hearts you will always stay. It is said that those we love don't go away, they walk beside us every day, ever present, and ever knowing. She will always be loved, she will forever be missed, and she will never be forgotten. Till we meet again, nye si, He d3 nyui3.

Tribute to my dearest sister "The LORD is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed." Psalm 34:18 As I reflect on the journey of my life, one constant reality stands out and that is you, Akpene. You have been my guiding light, my source of strength, and my inspiration. Your unwavering support and love has shaped me into the person I am today. From the earliest memories of our childhood to the challenges and triumphs of adulthood, you have been there, offering wisdom, encouragement, and a listening ear. Your kindness, generosity, and grace have been a steady presence in my life, showing me what it means to be resilient and compassionate. I am grateful for the countless ways you have enriched my life, taught me valuable lessons, and been a role model worth emulating. Your dedication to Belinda and I, and your selfless nature are qualities I deeply admire. Today, I honor you, my dear sister, for the remarkable person you are and the positive impact you have had on my life and the lives of others. Your legacy of love, strength, and integrity will forever inspire me. Your dedication to sport was phenomenal, and your tenacity was truly inspiring. With each game, you displayed not only your exceptional skills and athleticism but also your unwavering commitment to excellence. Your passion for the game is evident in every move you make on the field, and your leadership serves as a beacon for your teammates. You embodied the spirit of sportsmanship, pushing boundaries, and constantly raising the bar for yourself and those around you. Your influence extends beyond the games, leaving an indelible mark on all who witness your prowess. You are a true role model, showing what it means to pursue one's dreams with grit, grace, and determination. Thank you for being not only an elder sister but also a friend, a confidante, and a pillar of support. I cherish our bond and look forward to many more cherished moments together but, to God, is time to continue your assignment with your creator. I love you, till we meet again. Rest well. Francisca Esinam Amatekpor

*TRIBUTE FROM JOSA 1990 YEAR GROUP, (ST. JOHNS GRAMMAR SECONDARY SCHOOL ACHIMOTA) * "It came as a surprise to the 1990-year group of JOSA when Cornelia's flyer was posted as an obituary. The comments and memories flowing through could be felt as a pain in the hearts of members. Members praised her knowledge, enthusiasm, friendliness, and generosity. But what else could we have done besides offering our condolences? We all met Cornelia Akpene Amatekpor, or Corny as we called her, as active and happy teenagers at St. John's Grammar Secondary School in 1985. She was a sweet soul, active, sociable, and humorous. She didn't find it difficult to mingle with any race or group of people. Nobody would ever say Cornelia was someone they couldn't interact with. She would always want to approach you first with a smile and some teasing words to make you talk and laugh. Corny was a never-give-up person, but sometimes life's challenges and experiences drive us through unwanted roads that we are unable to overcome as we desire. Everyone on the platform has their personal sweet experience with Corny and would have wished to say a word to recall memories of her in school. Our hearts were broken when we first heard that she was ill. We did our best to support her in diverse ways until she became well, but then from nowhere, she experienced another attack which she could not survive till the LORD called her to rest. Corny, we knew you fought so hard through painful and heartbreaking moments to be well, but your soul was tired and needed to rest from this world of many uncertainties. We, her friends, the 1990-year group of St. John's Grammar Secondary School is grateful to the Almighty for allowing us to encounter such a great soul. If we had any power to bring you back, we would always be willing to do so. We know that the void created by your demise will make it difficult to find someone like you again, so happy, so motivating, always drawing a smile and there to support us. We will always remember you. We pray for your soul to rest in peace with God. We are very sad, but God will give us the strength to cope in the best way. We will remember you with great joy, although you should have never left. We extend our condolences to your family. We know it is a great vacuum, and you will be dearly missed. We pray that the Almighty will continue to encourage them and raise another Corny in the family to stand and fight as she did. We now know that you have departed to another life. we say farewell." JOSA 1990 19 January 2024

EULOGY — REST WELL, CORNELIA!! Cornelia, my friend, you fought a long and brave battle for years but unfortunately, you did not win. You took each day in stride, never complaining even though you were always tired. You never gave up and hoped that you would be well and that was my hope too. However, that did not happen, and death stole you from us. Cornelia, you were a beautiful woman, inside and out, and a wonderful friend. You were a pillar in my life supporting me for over 10 years with your gentle and caring presence. You believed in authenticity which made you personable and also transparent in your relationships. You did not hide your feelings-and expressed your thoughts more candidly because you believed it was good for the soul. You always sought to bring peace among your friends because for you it was essential for a healthy and joyful life. I admired you for your non-judgmental attitude. You never forced your opinions on anyone, but always offered valuable and truthful advice which I will never forget. My dear friend, today as I offer this eulogy, I ask for forgiveness for the many times I brushed you off when you would talk about the possibility of dying and leaving behind your beloved father Prof. Amatekpor, your sister, Belinda, and Francesca as well as your two children, Tanefa and Michael Amatekpor. I always-countered your conversations about death by always keeping your spirits up so that you would continue to mother your two sisters. I knew you wanted to have that conversation, but I never let you go down that path. You always kept your sense of humor even when you were going through excruciating pain and when I would say to you to give me your pain, you always said to me:“I would give it to you in a second. You can have it.” Cornelia, I remember one day you and I were talking about the struggles in my marriage, and you said: “Look at me,” meaning that if things were getting tough, I should change course and do the things that would make me happy because, in life, no one knows what will constitute happiness. Those three words, “look at me” came across so clearly and meant so much to me. My friend, my sister, my mentor, you were loving and a real friend. You were a wonderful mother to your two sisters and your children, and you laid a strong foundation of love and unity among them. Know that we will watch over the children with genuine love as you did and ensure they have a great life; a life filled with your aspirations and full of your values and wishes. Lastly, Cornelia, we will miss your magnetic smile. Your beautiful spirit will live on through your siblings Belinda, Francisca, your children Tanefa and Michael, and they will always know how much you loved them. You tried with all your heart to be present to them even though you sometimes thought the children were not listening to you. The kids will miss you dearly! During your illness, I came to know that six things kept yougoing, your children, your sisters, your father, and lastly, your tenacious hope, otherwise to face another day would have been tough. Cornelia, I hope that the Almighty God will grant you a peaceful rest knowing that you did all that you could and that the children you have left behind will be fine. Love always keeps the people we love in our hearts, and it is comforting to know that you will always be with us in our hearts. Farewell, my friend. Journey on gracefully and may the angels bear you on their wings and bring you to the bosom of Abraham! I’ll see you again, Cornelia. It is me, Serwaah as you always called me. January 19, 2024

My memories of Cornelia date back to University Primary School. She always brought joy and laughter to all we did. Tall for her age, she towered over most of us boys but this didn't make her feel awkward or held her back. We will miss you our dear Legonite ( those of us who grew up on the University of Ghana campus). The memory of you will live on in my heart ❤️ .

Corni, l remember how we laughed as we played whenever l would visit your home when we were young. We lost touch but through social media, we found each other again. I remember your Dad’s boisterous laughter as he would respond to his nickname. I just can’t believe this. Continue to rest in peace. Till we meet again.

I still want to wake up and hear it is not true. My mind cannot explain this. You will always be remembered 💖. Rest well in the bossom of your maker. CORNI as I call you. I will miss you 😘

May Christ our light guide your steps to the bosom of Father Abraham. My heartfelt condolences to the entire family especially the kids. It is well