This memorial, is to celebrate the life of our Husband, father, friend and brother, Owolabi Odekunle(Father Abraham).
Collecting your stories and memories here will offer us great comfort. Thank you for contributing to this lasting memorial.
OBITUARY
A RARE GEM
OWOLABI ORIYOMI ODEKUNLE (July 18 1968- June 13,2021)
Funeral Rites
Monday 21 June 2021- Service of songs - Foursquare Church, Sabo Yaba
Liberia Consulate
3, Thorborn Avenue,
Off Commercial Avenue,
Sabo, Lagos.
Time: 5pm
Funeral Service - Tuesday 22 June 2021
Bishop Adelakun Howell's Memorial Church (BAHM)
Hogan Bassey Crescent Surulere, Lagos.
Time: 11am
Bro Owolabi, you came, you saw and you conquered. Rest well in the bosom of our Father. Anywhere you were , the Light of God shone. You are greatly missed.
Olabisi DedekeThese few days have been difficult ones for me but I have come to understand that our body is not born again and has a tendency to fail as I remember Paul writing to Timothy to take remedies for his infirmity and writing the Corinthians on the treasures... moreThese few days have been difficult ones for me but I have come to understand that our body is not born again and has a tendency to fail as I remember Paul writing to Timothy to take remedies for his infirmity and writing the Corinthians on the treasures in earthen vessels. I indeed miss Bro Owolabi that comes to Egba loving and complementing my Ogi and Akara all the way. I am comforted in your overwhelming zeal to do the Masters bidding. Rest in the bossom of your maker. Rest on beloved.
June 17, 2021
Omolara SalakoTribute to “Father Abraham”Bro Owolabi Odekunle
By Silarry
How does one write a tribute on someone like you? How? I am not one that is ever short on words for anything but here I find my limitation. Alas, it is true our own Bro Owolabi is dead.... moreTribute to “Father Abraham”Bro Owolabi Odekunle
By Silarry
How does one write a tribute on someone like you? How? I am not one that is ever short on words for anything but here I find my limitation. Alas, it is true our own Bro Owolabi is dead. Death is cursed! In the midst of gloom, I will focus on the bright side.
In my years of sojourn in OSU and OVCF , you were a picture of consistency, faithfulness and steadfastness. Your leadership of the OVCAF, Transport and Final Year Brethren of the Fellowship reflected leadership in a way I am yet to see anywhere else. You were simply always there. Was it the Reunions, missions or those ones to Ago iwoye year in, year out.
Your exemplary leadership remained a source of inspiration to many of us.
Never for once did you complain of the distance of your home or place of work to Ago Iwoye; yours was a case of faithfulness unrivalled. You served God and today you have entered into your rest and your reward.
A man of few words but of deep devotion. He... less
June 17, 2021
Laide AdeyemoOwolabi, my ever faithful friend. Been sort of a mix feeling since I heard of your passing to glory on Sunday afternoon.
You were a solid friend, prayer partner, unassuming and lover of God.
Heaven was your goal.
Your physical separation which is... moreOwolabi, my ever faithful friend. Been sort of a mix feeling since I heard of your passing to glory on Sunday afternoon.
You were a solid friend, prayer partner, unassuming and lover of God.
Heaven was your goal.
Your physical separation which is untimely is very painful.
We may not see regularly, but we always picked it up from where we left whenever we met.
I am confident that you are in heaven with Jesus that you loved so much.
Goodbye my faithful and solid friend, I will continue to live to ensure that we meet again. less
June 17, 2021
Oluwafisayo Richard AyanbiyiThe first time I met Brother Owolabi was 2005 reunion during a section about meeting your former departmental leader. I was in the transport department and I was thrilled about his person. Then I then encountered a different person during a program he... moreThe first time I met Brother Owolabi was 2005 reunion during a section about meeting your former departmental leader. I was in the transport department and I was thrilled about his person. Then I then encountered a different person during a program he was the guest speaker, then I was in awe of his spiritual presence and his holy ghost meeting was actually one of a kind. I change mindset about him immediately and he did forever made an impact in my life. But we sorry not like them that have no hope. We will meet again SURELY! less
You came
You heard about the Lord
You sought for and saw Him in His reality
The depth of your understanding of His ways caused the earth to quake.
You carried ‘The One’ all around
Every drop of your blood moved and danced to... moreTribute to Bro Owolabi
You came
You heard about the Lord
You sought for and saw Him in His reality
The depth of your understanding of His ways caused the earth to quake.
You carried ‘The One’ all around
Every drop of your blood moved and danced to His rhythm
Your deep love for Christ radiated in all your ways and acts
We all could not but notice the fire burning in your pursuit of God and Christ
Your drive was evident for all to hear, see, know and follow
The carrier of darkness and all his cohorts feared you
Your presence subjugated and defeated their agenda
Your words pierced hearts like a deep sword cutting away things that distract from and detract from the Lord
You were loud not for attention but to announce the Lord
You were bold and courageous, not out of pride but to establish the counsel of God
You exuded Love in all you did and to all you touched
Bro Owolabi as I usually call you, you lived a very short life
You left suddenly, but your impact was more than your years
Your love for... less
June 17, 2021
Oluwabunmi Fatungase ( nee Banjo)Hummm bro owolabi and OVCF bus / transport team are synonyms that will take long years to remove from my memory. You were a big brother and friends to me and many back then at school. You were a great example of selflessness and had great energy to drive... moreHummm bro owolabi and OVCF bus / transport team are synonyms that will take long years to remove from my memory. You were a big brother and friends to me and many back then at school. You were a great example of selflessness and had great energy to drive things. Your passion to get a viable bus and make projects happen was very contagious.
I thank God for the awesome life you lived for God letting everyone know it's a great thing to serve Jesus. We shall kiss you greatly. Am comforted that your lived ones can read good things about you and keep on with the race.
THANK YOU FOR GIVING TO THE LORD IN SO MANY WAYS. MY BELOVED BROTHER OWOLABI REST WELL IN THE BOSSOM OF OUR SAVIOUR.We shall see at the resurrection morning.
Bunmi Fatungase less
June 17, 2021
Emiloju Edalere-Lukula
I’m still speechless ! You were Father Abraham indeed. You lived well. You touched many lives . Rest on in eternal bliss. Adieu sir!
June 17, 2021
Gabriel DedekeEbullient - that is who you were; Captivating Orator- this also describe you; life coach - you were exemplary; straightforward - you never pull back from saying it as it is from your heart; yet you never want to hurt anyone. A great lover - you love the... moreEbullient - that is who you were; Captivating Orator- this also describe you; life coach - you were exemplary; straightforward - you never pull back from saying it as it is from your heart; yet you never want to hurt anyone. A great lover - you love the Lord, your family and friends, and you never pull any punch at displaying your love to all. A Leader per excellence - You never asked of others what you don't do. A giver- always on a quest to bless someone. Your faith so clear, it showed the way to Jesus; your hope is so real, it calms the heart; your love is so strong, it pointed the way to the Father. Sleep on, my brother and friend. Till we meet again. DDK. less
June 17, 2021
TITILAYO FOWOKANYou are indeed a Rare Gem! When I read the news about your passing to glory, all that went down in my mind was, a Rare Gem is gone! You have fought the good fight, you have run a good race and you have gone to rest.
Your voice during the last OVCAF... moreYou are indeed a Rare Gem! When I read the news about your passing to glory, all that went down in my mind was, a Rare Gem is gone! You have fought the good fight, you have run a good race and you have gone to rest.
Your voice during the last OVCAF Reunion I attended and the retreat held at Ajebo Camp still resonates as you spoke with passion on the need to keep alive OVCAF's vision for the house of OVCF. I recall our discussions on your move to Abuja and the testimonies of the greatness of God in your life and business. Your motivational talks on Christianity and experiences of life cannot be forgotten. You touched lives of upcoming generations and stood out in your service for the master. Being in the gathering of brethren when you lead worship was always a time of refreshing. These memories touched my life and indeed revealed to me the large heart you carry and your passion for Christ.
Sleep on my dear brother as you rest in the bossom of Father Abraham, a name associated with you.
kenny AdenugbaTHE IVORY BREAKS FOREVER – ELEGY FOR OWÓLABÍ ỌDẸKÚNLÉ
If the calabash breaks, it can be mended
But the ivory breaks for ever
Owólabí, undaunted spirit of goodness
Your passage is like a poisonous dart buried in the core of the heart moreTHE IVORY BREAKS FOREVER – ELEGY FOR OWÓLABÍ ỌDẸKÚNLÉ
If the calabash breaks, it can be mended
But the ivory breaks for ever
Owólabí, undaunted spirit of goodness
Your passage is like a poisonous dart buried in the core of the heart
Darkness fills the earth at your exit
The birds flap in migrating flight to the land of mournful songs
The owl scowls, the wolf howls, telling of mournful loss at dawn
Ominous tale of a faithful journey without return
Who opened the Màrìwò that concealed the passageway from you?
For now you’d have belched your friendly banter, ‘seriously, let me tell you something’
But your footsteps now commune with the paths of àrìnnàkò
Like a mirage, your cherubic presence fills us with startled awe
I hear the angels rejoice at your passage
For the Lord’s beloved is called home
Pangs of sorrow grip our earthly souls
When the Seraphs stand in honour at your celestial entry
Death kills the hunter like one without a quiver of arrows
The medicine man is... less
June 17, 2021
Adetomi Popoola Hmnn....I still cannot believe it but God remains faithful. Bro. Owolabi, you came, you saw and you conquered. We bless God that you gave to the Lord and served Him faithfully. This is a reminder that we all must be up and doing and live our lives daily... moreHmnn....I still cannot believe it but God remains faithful. Bro. Owolabi, you came, you saw and you conquered. We bless God that you gave to the Lord and served Him faithfully. This is a reminder that we all must be up and doing and live our lives daily as if it were the last. Rest on beloved till we meet again on the resurrection day.
June 18, 2021
oluwatoyin ogunlolu
It's well. Rest on Bro Owolabi. You were truly an examplary leader. May the good Lord comfort your wife and family & show up for them always. Till we all meet @ Jesus feet. May the Lord keep us all
"Carve your name on hearts, not tombstones. A legacy is etched into the minds of others and the stories they share about you." Shannon Alder
"Some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust... moreEpitaph of a Man great in people
"Carve your name on hearts, not tombstones. A legacy is etched into the minds of others and the stories they share about you." Shannon Alder
"Some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon them." Twelfth Night
Where you stand is your view, it is your perception of the whole, same is true of *Owolabi Oluyomi Odekunle.*
Many things to many people. Indeed an enigma!
Owolabi, funny our path never crossed as students on campus nor in OVCF because I had left before you but to many who knew us and our closeness, and stewardship in OVCAF we must have come from way back.
With tearful eyes I could hardly mutter words to unravel you. Do I recall the family bond we forged in early parenting, or the travails we bore over OVCF or burning blaze for OVCAF? Not only was your home my family home much more was your heart my solace. You looked out for me and dreamt dreams giving prominent seat for me. Owo, you dreamt!
Emeka NwarulorI am still trying to come to terms with the news of Bro. Owolabi's departure to glory.
I remember the aura he exudes when he walk into any gathering. I admired his humility and passion for God. When he speaks you can quickly tell he means business. He... moreI am still trying to come to terms with the news of Bro. Owolabi's departure to glory.
I remember the aura he exudes when he walk into any gathering. I admired his humility and passion for God. When he speaks you can quickly tell he means business. He was not a man to mince words. The few times I encountered him during those OVCAF reunions in Ago-iwoye was impactful.
I have had a hard time processing this news. Your passing is an reminder of the urgency of the work bestowed upon us by our Father. This scripture comes to mind in John 9:4, "I must work the works of Him that sent me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work."
Goodnight Bro. Owolabi. Rest in peace. It is well. less
June 18, 2021
Evabyword OdunugaA great man is gone!
I used to think greatness is about fame.
But within your own circle of influence, you may be a great person in someone's book.
Barrister Owolabi Odekunle was OVCAF chairman when I was in the Executive of OVCF.
Some things I will... moreA great man is gone!
I used to think greatness is about fame.
But within your own circle of influence, you may be a great person in someone's book.
Barrister Owolabi Odekunle was OVCAF chairman when I was in the Executive of OVCF.
Some things I will forever remember him for? His large heart, generousity, ability to connect with younger generation.
His fire-brand zeal and passion for the Kingdom work.
My last exchange with him was on OVCAF platform. He replied to my post.
One of my favourite leaders in OVCAF.
One of those who made people like us wanted to give our all to OVCAF!
May God uphold his family and comfort them at this trying time.
What did I learn from this great man's death?
- Whatever I want to do for God; the time is now. We will not be here forever!
I celebrate you in life and in death!
I will keep the flag flying from where you left it. I will carry the torch of service irrespective of what people say!
Good night Barrister Owolabi.
Rest in Power!
Rest in Peace!
Adeola OdumaboBro Owolabi Odekunle fondly called Father Abraham! It was a ruddy shock to receive a note from my daughter that you are called to glory this morning. I can't forget your impart in my life during undergraduate days in OVCF. You are a good brother even... moreBro Owolabi Odekunle fondly called Father Abraham! It was a ruddy shock to receive a note from my daughter that you are called to glory this morning. I can't forget your impart in my life during undergraduate days in OVCF. You are a good brother even after in OVCAF. Your love for God and His kingdom is awesome! I am grateful to God for such a great gift to His body.
Rest on the bosom of your Lord whom you loved!
Pst Adedoyin Odumabo (General Doo)
June 18, 2021
Adeola OdumaboI met Bro Owolabi through Sis Laide Adeyemo in my 100 Level and since then he adopted me as the 1st daughter of father Abraham. He was such a caring and loving father! I remember, he was the 1st person to fry plantain with ata gigun for me. Several days,... moreI met Bro Owolabi through Sis Laide Adeyemo in my 100 Level and since then he adopted me as the 1st daughter of father Abraham. He was such a caring and loving father! I remember, he was the 1st person to fry plantain with ata gigun for me. Several days, we will just finish school and move to his house in Itamerin. He will cook for us. I remember when Tayo Ogunnoiki - my fiance then died in 400L, Bro Owolabi drove down from Lagos packed my load from Ijebu Igbo and took me to his house at ltamerin.
This was to ensure no one tells me before I finished my exams.
When I eventually got to know he took me home.
My final year Was Very rough for obvious reasons but Bro Owolabi stood by me.
He was delayed for Law school, so we were in Law school together. Bro Owolabi took me to Bwari Law School and brought me back home on every trip till we finished law school. He was so protective that intended toasters had to go through him before approaching me.
Even after Law school he took care of me. My children call... less
Omoniyi Komolafe Owolabi you were not yet in OSU when you became a member of OVCF. Some of us came across you then, through your bossom friend Hezekiah(Zik), quickly you became a member of the family with such an indelible and incredible impact. God confirmed your call... moreOwolabi you were not yet in OSU when you became a member of OVCF. Some of us came across you then, through your bossom friend Hezekiah(Zik), quickly you became a member of the family with such an indelible and incredible impact. God confirmed your call to OVCF by you eventually becoming a student in OSU. You cut across many generations, you were everyone's friend. You made available your shoulder for many to lean
on. You knew your God, you were strong, bold, courageous and did exploits.
Your's is such a PAINFUL EXIT!
We will not be quick to forget you Owolabi.
You are indeed unforgettable and you will remain in our hearts.
Its been a while that I have been this shocked less
June 18, 2021
Adebimpe OrefuwaBro Owolabi, our amiable OVCF transport secretary. I still remember your multiple trips (in one day) to get all the sisters attending Sisters conference in Ibadan to the location safely; multiple trips to get there and to bring us back to our OSU campus.... moreBro Owolabi, our amiable OVCF transport secretary. I still remember your multiple trips (in one day) to get all the sisters attending Sisters conference in Ibadan to the location safely; multiple trips to get there and to bring us back to our OSU campus.
You displayed love and care with no strings attached.
Good night Bro. Owolabi, sleep well in the bossom of our Lord..
My thoughts and prayers with sis Funke, the children and the entire family.
"Carve your name on hearts, not tombstones. A legacy is etched into the minds of others and the stories they share about you." Shannon Alder
"Some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust... moreEpitaph of a Man great in people
"Carve your name on hearts, not tombstones. A legacy is etched into the minds of others and the stories they share about you." Shannon Alder
"Some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon them." Twelfth Night
Where you stand is your view, it is your perception of the whole, same is true of *Owolabi Oluyomi Odekunle.*
Many things to many people. Indeed an enigma!
Owolabi, funny our path never crossed as students on campus nor in OVCF because I had left before you but to many who knew us and our closeness, and stewardship in OVCAF we must have come from way back.
With tearful eyes I could hardly mutter words to unravel you. Do I recall the family bond we forged in early parenting, or the travails we bore over OVCF or burning blaze for OVCAF? Not only was your home my family home much more was your heart my solace. You looked out for me and dreamt dreams giving prominent seat for me. Owo, you dreamt!
Taiwo ObafunmiI knew Owolabi since 1987...we did A/LEVELS in Ogun Poly together with Bro Pius and later got admission to OSU...His special number was HIS EYES ARE ON THE SPARROW...so we labelled him SPARROW.
With his parting on his head I can't forget his boyish... moreI knew Owolabi since 1987...we did A/LEVELS in Ogun Poly together with Bro Pius and later got admission to OSU...His special number was HIS EYES ARE ON THE SPARROW...so we labelled him SPARROW.
With his parting on his head I can't forget his boyish look even in the middle of tonight...
Told him when i was at 2019 Reunion to watch his weight as I have known him and Hezekiah to be lanky...he laughed.
He loved the Lord
One thing struck me tonight as I remember him....
He always makes a statement:
'LORD, IF I WILL BACKSLIDE TOMORROW, TAKE ME HOME TODAY!!!!'
One day after a powerful FELLOWSHIP/SERVICE he said:
Sis Tee' IF GOD SHOULD SAY TO ME OR I HEAR HIM AFFIRM 'OWOLABI, THOU ART MY BELOVED SON IN WHOM I AM WELL PLEASED ' you know my reply?
I asked 'what will be your reply?'
He said ' I'LL SAY *LORD JUST TAKE ME HOME BEFORE OWOLABI STARTS TO MISBEHAVE AND YOU CHANGE YOUR MIND!!!!!"*
HE LOVED THE LORD AND SERVED HIM PASSIONATELY. He drove AMAZING GRACE BUS with zeal...and stayed in it every... less
June 19, 2021
Remi Jagun
I have not been able to write anything since because I was short of words, we shared several beautiful moments together, your friends were my friends, your family were mine, I will miss you bruv, rest in the Lord. Adieu
June 19, 2021
Olufunmilola AkinbandeThough I know the face but I didn't know you on a personal note. I guess I met you for the first time about 5/6 years ago when I attended the reunion for the first time. However with what I have been reading since your demise, it is obvious you have been... moreThough I know the face but I didn't know you on a personal note. I guess I met you for the first time about 5/6 years ago when I attended the reunion for the first time. However with what I have been reading since your demise, it is obvious you have been a servant leader and a true lover of God indeed. My prayer is that every of your Labour in God's vineyard will not be in vain. That your works will not burn and every seed God has helped you to plant will bring forth more abiding fruits for your loved ones to reap in Jesus name.
This also brings the question my brethren "what will be said of us after we're gone?" Ki Oluwa ki o ran wa lowo. Adieu once again dear brother less
Bro Owolabi exit is a rude shock to me. I have never cry deeply like I did when I got the flash of the news that you are gone. The last time I cry so much like this was when my Dad passed on 30 years ago.
Bro Owolabi exit is a rude shock to me. I have never cry deeply like I did when I got the flash of the news that you are gone. The last time I cry so much like this was when my Dad passed on 30 years ago.
I belong to the younger or Middle generation. But Owolabi kan OVCAF kan ni. He is so humble and teachable. Quick to apologise and become your friend. I remember a time I challenged him on an issue at Ago Iwoye. I was thinking he will get angry and rubbish my opinion but NO Bro Owolabi listened well and apologized. He is always ready to path with his resources sometimes he does not have it readily available but he will look for someone that has it and get it to you.
You are a father to many and blessing to the house of OVCF/OVCAF.
For days I was still waiting to hear another news about you that you have woken up. Still waiting oooo
You live a fulfilled life.
I will always miss your impactful teachings and counsel.
Folusewa BellaI will never forget your acts of selflessness which I glimpsed while in OSU. You were always on ground whenever the Alumni came around with your larger than life personality yet maintaining a humble stance. A particular day stands out, your wife was... moreI will never forget your acts of selflessness which I glimpsed while in OSU. You were always on ground whenever the Alumni came around with your larger than life personality yet maintaining a humble stance. A particular day stands out, your wife was meant to give the Daughters of Destiny a talk in Mariam Hall I think. She spoke so glowingly of you as a husband and a father. And I wondered if you were even human. Politely you kept your distance from us while silently lending your support. Hmmm. Another encounter happened after Ovcaf meeting on a Sunday. You volunteered to carry me in your car part of the way and dropped me at a convenient place to continue my journey. May all your loved ones be comforted at this painful time. Rest now sir, you have laboured. Faithful is He whom you have served faithfully. We shall see again at His feet.
Oluwaseun Taiwo less
By Silarry
How does one write a tribute on someone like you? How? I am not one that is ever short on words for anything but here I find my limitation. Alas, it is true our own Bro Owolabi is dead.... more
You were a solid friend, prayer partner, unassuming and lover of God.
Heaven was your goal.
Your physical separation which is... more
You came
You heard about the Lord
You sought for and saw Him in His reality
The depth of your understanding of His ways caused the earth to quake.
You carried ‘The One’ all around
Every drop of your blood moved and danced to... more
Your voice during the last OVCAF... more
If the calabash breaks, it can be mended
But the ivory breaks for ever
Owólabí, undaunted spirit of goodness
Your passage is like a poisonous dart buried in the core of the heart
"Carve your name on hearts, not tombstones. A legacy is etched into the minds of others and the stories they share about you." Shannon Alder
"Some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust... more
I remember the aura he exudes when he walk into any gathering. I admired his humility and passion for God. When he speaks you can quickly tell he means business. He... more
I used to think greatness is about fame.
But within your own circle of influence, you may be a great person in someone's book.
Barrister Owolabi Odekunle was OVCAF chairman when I was in the Executive of OVCF.
Some things I will... more
"Carve your name on hearts, not tombstones. A legacy is etched into the minds of others and the stories they share about you." Shannon Alder
"Some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust... more
With his parting on his head I can't forget his boyish... more
Bro Owolabi exit is a rude shock to me. I have never cry deeply like I did when I got the flash of the news that you are gone. The last time I cry so much like this was when my Dad passed on 30 years ago.
I belong to the... more
We met in class and OVCF.
Your love for people is legendary.
The consistency of your love, friendship and reliability is historical.
You came, you saw, you learned and followed the ancient landmark.
Life is not measured in... more