…As Archbishop urges faithful to live up to expectations
By Akuma Ebere
Catholic Archdiocese of Onitsha, alongside the Okoye family, gathered at the Holy Trinity Cathedral, Onitsha, for the solemn burial Mass of Rev. Fr Izuchukwu Anthony Okoye, fondly called Man-Pele, whose life of service and generosity touched many across Anambra State.
Fr Okoye, born on May 15, 1984, to the family of the late Mr. Michael and Mrs. Victoria Okoye of Ifite village, Nnobi, was a native of Ebenesi, Nnobi in Idemili South Local Government Area. Ordained a Catholic priest on July 7, 2012, he passed away on September 28, 2025. Until his death, he served as the Manager of St. Anthony’s Group of Schools, Umudioka.
The funeral Mass drew dignitaries, clergy, classmates, parishioners, relatives and friends who came in their numbers to pay their last respects to a priest widely described as a compassionate shepherd and dedicated educator. Many recalled his numerous acts of kindness,scholarships to indigent students, support to poor families, counsel to the troubled and his warmth toward the elderly.
In his homily, the Archbishop of Onitsha, His Grace Most Rev. Dr. Valerian Okeke, urged the faithful to live lives rooted in Christ, describing Fr. Okoye as a man of simplicity who lived for others. He commended the family, parishioners and all who contributed to the success of the burial rites.
Speaking with reporters after the interment, the deceased’s younger brother, Mr. Chidozie Okoye (Achido), described Fr. Izuu as “a good man whose death is a heavy blow to the family and the diocese.” He thanked all who attended the burial and prayed for God’s protection upon them, urging Christians to remain steadfast in their journey toward heaven, drawing inspiration from the example of Blessed Iwene Tansi.
Other mourners, including Fr. Big John, Mr. Peter Nwozor, Chief Michael Okaka, Mr. Valentine Agbazue, Chief Fidelis, Mr. Onyeka Ezenwelu and Mr. Amachukwu Udoh, extolled Fr. Okoye’s life of generosity and humility. They noted that he “came, saw and conquered,” leaving behind a legacy of charity and service to God and humanity.
They encouraged the living to emulate his virtues, stressing that whatever one’s position or gifts, they should be used wisely for the good of others especially the poor.
