In Loving Memory of Mrs Mabel. O. Usiade

On this solemn day, we gather to pay tribute to the remarkable life of Mrs. Mabel O. Usiade, a woman whose presence brought warmth and joy to all who knew her. Born on the 25th of May, 1961, into the family of Ugu from Owanta aloshimi in ika north east boji boji owa,she is the grand daughter of Great gboneme family of Owanta she was welcomed into a large and loving family of 7 children and she being the last born was welcomed with so much love and affection from the family, and her journey through life began..

At a tender age, Mrs. Mabel embarked on a new chapter, moving to the Old Lagos Asaba road, where she found solace and love in the embrace of the onyibe's family. They took her in as their own, caring for her with unwavering dedication throughout her life. Their bond grew stronger, becoming an unbreakable foundation that shaped the woman she became. she got married at the age of 20 to Mr Emmanuel.O. Usiade, Son of Famous Okparanan-Uku also of Owanta which was in the year 1982. she is succeded with 4 children and 1 foster child

In the year 1997, Mrs. Mabel journeyed to Lagos with her own family, and in the year 1998 she established Eze Restaurant,through the support of her inlaw and the grace of God, her resturance is a testament to her passion for culinary excellence. Located in Olowora, Berger, Lagos State, her restaurant became a sanctuary for many, a place where delicious food and warm hospitality merged to create unforgettable experiences. For numerous years, Mrs. Mabel poured her heart and soul into her restaurant before eventually retiring to her home in Magboro, Akeran, Ogun State, where she continued to cater to the needs of her community by selling foodstuffs. Mrs. Mabel was a woman of remarkable strength, resilience, and determination. Her hardworking nature and relentless drive were evident in every aspect of her life. But it was her boundless capacity to love and care for others that set her apart. She possessed a heart that knew no bounds, pouring love into every single person who crossed her path. Her selflessness and dedication to her family and loved ones knew no limits, and she stood as a pillar of support and strength for all.

Known as "Iya Igbo" to her friends and neighbors, Mrs. Mabel's dedication to serving others was a cornerstone of her life. Her culinary skills were legendary, with her pastries and delectable pots of soup being sought-after delights. The mention of her restaurant or her name was enough to bring smiles to people's faces, knowing that they were about to experience culinary perfection crafted with love. As we bid farewell to Mrs. Mabel O. Usiade, we celebrate the beautiful life she lived, her infectious happiness, and her unwavering commitment to those she loved. She leaves behind her beloved husband, devoted siblings, caring children, loving in-laws, and cherished grandchildren. Each of them carries a piece of her spirit within their hearts. Today, we honor Mrs. Mabel's legacy—her unwavering love, her remarkable resilience, and her dedication to creating joy for others. May her soul find eternal peace, and may her memory serve as a guiding light for all who were fortunate enough to know her..

With heartfelt condolences, continue to sleep NNME OMA(AKA MAMA HUMMER) until we meet to part no more

WILSON USIADE FOR THE FAMILY

Let me share the remarkable journey of my cherished mother! Born into a polygamous family, she was later taken in by her step sister due to her sister's loss of her first child. Growing up, she toiled tirelessly to make ends meet each day. Marrying young at 20, she waited two years before welcoming her first daughter, then a son, followed by another daughter who sadly passed away before my birth. Five years later, she had her last child. She had learned baking in Agbor due to being unable to attend school. Her delicious cakes from her tidy single room, doubling as her shop, attracted numerous customers. My mother faced immense struggles to provide for her children. I recall her recounting the tough times when I, a sickly child, compelled her to wear the same wrapper for a year and a half, enduring mockery. She cooked using only crayfish just to ensure we had food. Her tireless work ethic and unyielding determination in the face of hardship undoubtedly passed on to me; I am glad I inherited her spirit of perseverance.

In 1997, we relocated to Lagos and settled in a one-room apartment. To ensure our education, meals, and clothing, my mother sold eggs as a street vendor. Despite our modest living space, our home was immaculate and always welcoming to others. After two years of selling eggs with her children on the streets of Olowora, she acquired a shop and launched Eze Restaurant. She viewed this as a fresh start for our family. Tirelessly, she worked day and night to make it one of Olowora's finest eateries. Her kindness extended to feeding both the privileged and the less fortunate, earning her a reputation for generosity. My mother exemplified compassion, instilling in us values of kindness and respect. Eventually, she adopted her youngest son, who became her personal assistant. From that one-room dwelling, we expanded to two extra rooms, hosting extended family and friends we cherished dearly. Subsequently, we moved into a two-bedroom flat, yet my mother continued her unwavering commitment to supporting the family. I recall a morning when she was robbed on her way to the shop—a hidden aspect of the success she achieved. Despite this setback, she persevered and supported her husband in constructing a three-bedroom apartment in Magboro, where we moved in 2008.

Due to the distance, she closed her restaurant and opened a small grocery shop, managing it until 2022. After surviving two robbery incidents, she finally secured her shop and decided to retire from the hustle. Known as "IYA Igbo" in Magboro, she acted as a mother figure to many and even became a grandmother, welcoming her first grandchild in 2018. Her joy knew no bounds, and subsequent grandchildren brought more happiness. In May 2023, she experienced double joy as her eldest son, who had left for South Africa in 2005, returned married, marking a heartwarming reunion with his wife, whom my mother had met even before reuniting with her son. From December 2022 until August 2023, my mother cared for her foster mother before embarking on her dream trip to witness her daughter's graduation in the UK. Little did she know it would be her final journey. The anticipation and joy surrounding this trip filled her heart, and seeing her at Edinburgh Airport on October 24, 2023, brought an overwhelming sense of fulfillment to my soul. Despite being a first-time traveler to Scotland during the peak of winter, she was so elated that the stress of the long journey didn't affect her. During her stay with me, I witnessed a different side of my mother's happiness. She slept well, attributing it to the weather and recalling how prolonged naps were rare back home due to electricity issues. We went shopping, took evening strolls, and shared meals and laughter while watching movies under the duvet. Some days she mentioned the cold, while other days she didn't seem to notice it. I fondly remember ensuring she was properly covered by the duvet each morning after dragging it at night.

However, life took an unexpected turn on November 4th when, after a walk and coffee the previous night, she woke up unable to move her right leg. Initially dismissing it as a muscle pull, she eventually sought medical attention. Sadly, despite her optimism and the family's continuous support, her health didn't improve. Her faith and hope for recovery remained strong, but on November 14th, she passed away suddenly, leaving us in shock and disbelief. Her passing took a piece of our hearts, as she was a loving, caring woman who tirelessly showed love to everyone. Her generosity, unwavering spirit, and love for God defined her character. Her life, though 62 years short, left an indelible mark on countless souls. Her absence will forever be felt, yet her legacy of love will endure. Mom, you were our HERO, and until we meet again, continue to watch over us as our guardian angel.

I miss you dearly. Mom, Christmas holds a different feeling now that you're not here with us. The house seems desolate and void without your presence. You always referred to yourself as my dancing angel, assuring us that you wouldn't be an ailing burden to your children. You accepted this defeat to continue fighting our battles from heaven. Your absence has left a void, and I'll forever miss your voice, your endearing nickname for me, "Isybaby," and your profound gratitude for every caring gesture shown towards you. Your legacy of appreciating even the smallest of gifts persists. Being your daughter fills me with immense pride. You often spoke about your return to life, aiming to attain numerous educational degrees, hold esteemed positions, and leave an indelible mark wherever you went.

Mom, you accomplished so much; your impact goes beyond what wealth and a long life could achieve. Your wardrobe boasts the finest clothes, and you savored the best meals because, as you would say, "you only depart with food in your stomach." It's agonizing that you couldn't taste the crispy chicken you longed for. However, recalling our conversation the night before your passing, I find solace in knowing you had enjoyed everything I bought for you, ensuring you weren't hungry. My love for you knows no bounds, and if reincarnation were real, I'd wish for you to return to us. You were adored as our mother, and as a child, you'd receive that same boundless affection. I trust that all your dreams would be fulfilled by God's grace. Rest peacefully, dearest Mom, you're the best mother in the entire world.

BY ISIOMA USIADE