Madam Beckley Lived A Remarkable-Children
Children of late Madam Iyabode Beckley had said that their mother lived a remarkable and exemplary life with love and kindness.
One of the children and the Secretary to the Government of Ejigbo Local Council Development Area, Paul Fregene said this at the thanksgiving service for the late grandmother last Sunday.
Late Madam Beckley (Mama) died on the 29th of August 2023, at the age of 107, and was buried the following day, on the 30th of August.
The SLG and his family held the thanksgiving service at the Cathedral Church of St. Jude, Ebute Meta, Lagos.
The Officiating Minister, Reverend Olukayode Dada, described Mama as one who lived an exemplary life worthy of emulation. He further preached about love and encouraged people to love one another.
On his part, the SLG described his late grand mother as a woman who lived a remarkable and significant life. He added that Mama was a woman of unwavering principle who was known for her strong moral compass.
The Executive Chairman of Ejigbo LCDA, Alh. Monsurudeen Oloyede Bello (OBE), described Mama as an epitome of humility and uprightness, who was industrious and an achiever. He added that she invested greatly in the life of her children, grandchildren and other people who crossed her path.
The late Iyabode Beckley’s life was a remarkable journey that began in the heart of Abeokuta, within the warm embrace of the Beckley family. Born to the loving parents, Pa Daniel and Madam Dahunsi Beckley, in the close-knit community of Ile Ake, she was destined for a life of significance.
As life unfolded, Iyabode’s path led her to the bustling city of Lagos. She later relocated to the family house on Osolake by Ibadan Street in Ebute Metta East. It was in this vibrant urban landscape that she honed her skills as a trader. Iyabode possessed an unwavering love for business, and it was this passion that fueled her entrepreneurial spirit.
In the early 1960s, she embarked on a journey to the northern regions of Nigeria, carrying palm oil and bean cakes. Her ventures were met with success, and they laid the foundation for her reputation as a shrewd businesswoman.
Ultimately, Iyabode found her true calling and settled in the bustling neighborhood of Agege. It was here that she established herself as a renowned seller of moimoi, earning her the affectionate title of “Iya Olole.” Her moimoi became a beloved staple for the locals, a testament to her culinary expertise.
Later in life, as she neared her ninetieth birthday, Iyabode made a profound decision to embrace Christianity. She chose to give her life to Jesus Christ, and it was a decision that filled her heart with peace and contentment. The local priest would visit her regularly to administer communion, a spiritual connection that brought solace to her soul.
Iyabode Beckley was a woman of unwavering principles. She held no grudges, harbored no animosities, and was known for her strong moral compass. Her life was a testament to the values of simplicity, as she never indulged in frivolities. She abstained from bathing with hot water, choosing instead to live a life of modesty and frugality.
In the rich Yoruba tradition, she was affectionately known by the Oríkì:
“A rà aké majo
Omo ajo gberu
Ma jó gbè ko
Ẹrú lósìn
Èkó kì sini Yan
Sun ree
Ìyàmi”
Iyabode Beckley’s legacy endures, a testament to a life filled with resilience, faith, and a commitment to her principles.
As a woman of unwavering spirit, she held no grudges, harboured no animosities, and was known for her strong moral compass. Her life was a testament to the value of simplicity.
As she neared her ninetieth birthday, Late Madam Beckley made a profound decision to embrace Christianity by giving her life to Jesus Christ. A decision which filled her heart with peace and contentment.
