By Akuma Ebere
The people of Ihembosi community in Ekwusigo Local Government Area of Anambra State gathered recently to celebrate the lives of two of their revered elders: the late Nze Titus Anozie Nzeazubenyi, aged 107 and his wife, Lolo Susan Obieze Anozie (née Ewuzie), aged 80. The couple were laid to rest at their country home in Umunakwa village.
The burial ceremonies commenced with a solemn Holy Mass officiated by a host of Catholic priests from St. Augustine Catholic Church, Umunakwa Ihembosi, drawing a large crowd of mourners, relatives and well-wishers.
Late Nze Anozie, popularly known as “One with God is Majority,” was widely respected for his truthfulness and integrity. A devoted Catholic, he was a life patron of the Abu Oma Choir group and a life member of the Catholic Men Organisation (CMO). He also served as a patron of the Obinwanne age grade and was an active member of the Nwannedinamba Social Club. Despite facing opposition due to his commitment to speaking the truth, he was recognised as a fearless and principled community leader.
His wife, the late Lolo Susan Obieze Anozie, was also a devout Catholic and an active member of various church societies, including the Catholic Women Organisation (CWO), the choir and the Abu Oma Society. Fondly called “Obieze” by many, she was remembered as a woman of love, patience, generosity and deep wisdom. Her nurturing spirit left a lasting impact on her family and the wider Ihembosi community.
In their tributes, Rev. Dr. Stevmary Anozie (Agunwamaria) and Chimezie Anozie (Emperor), children of the deceased, described their parents as pillars of truth and unity. They pledged to uphold the values of peace and togetherness that their parents stood for.
“We thank everyone who came to support us. Our parents taught us to stand for truth and unity, and we promise to continue in that legacy,” they said.
Three of the daughters of the deceased ; Mrs. Nkoli Owulu (Kajard), Mrs. Ifeoma Atueyi (Mama Ejima)and Mrs. Olivia Nwosu (Stainless) described their parents as peacemakers whose exemplary lives touched many.
“Our parents were disciplinarians and devout Christians. They gave sacrificially and lived lives worth emulating. Their long life was a reward for their truthful and peaceful nature,” they remarked.
Community leaders and associates, including Mr. Emeka Owulu, Mr. Charles Onwudiegwu (Akwudolueze), Dr. Ogbonna (Isi Mmili Ihembosi), Mr. Livinus and Mr. Chikezie Okechi, also paid glowing tributes, noting the significant contributions of the deceased to the development of Ihembosi and urging the family to preserve the values they upheld.
The burial ceremony drew wide participation from religious groups, business associates, social clubs, and extended family members, making it a true celebration of lives well lived.
