Final Farewell: Godwin Roosevelt Avenorgbo, "The Grandmaster"

 By Shine Esi Kwawukumey 




Family, friends, and well-wishers gathered yesterday at the Lashibi Funeral Home to bid a solemn farewell to Godwin Roosevelt Avenorgbo, affectionately known as "The Grandmaster." 


The atmosphere was one of deep reverence as mourners paid tribute to the life of the renowned figure, whose influence reached far beyond his immediate circles.


The funeral service, held under a cloud of emotions, was marked by moving tributes that highlighted his profound impact on those who knew him.


Reverend Paul Owusu, who officiated the ceremony, spoke of Avenorgbo’s commitment to his faith and community: "Godwin was not just a man of intellect; he was a man of action, he lived by example, inspiring all of us to be better versions of ourselves and his passing leaves a void that will not easily be filled," Rev. Owusu remarked.


Avenorgbo was widely respected in both local and international circles, particularly for his love in mentorship and leadership training and his influence extended to many who came forward to speak about how his wisdom had shaped their lives.


Kwame Osei, a mentee of Avenorgbo, shared heartfelt words during his tribute: "The Grandmaster was more than a mentor to me; he was like a father, he had this unique ability to see potential in you that you didn’t even know existed, and his guidance was firm but compassionate, and his words continue to echo in my heart," Osei shared with the gathered mourners.


Among the mourners was Mrs. Evelyn Avenorgbo, his widow, who expressed her deep sorrow: "Godwin was my rock and the love of my life, his kindness, wisdom, and strength were not just for his family but for everyone he met, and His legacy will live on through the lives he touched," she said tearfully.


In recent times, funerals in Ghana are often elaborate and sophisticated, with bodies kept in the morgue for extended periods while families make arrangements or wait for relatives abroad to return. 


Funeral clothes are customarily bought, sewn into new styles, and worn as a symbol of mourning. After the burial, there is typically a feast, followed by more celebrations on the Sunday after the thanksgiving service. 


Tributes are read, often lavish and at times exaggerated, which some say would "even make the dead shocked by the tributes read at their own funeral."


However, Godwin Roosevelt Avenorgbo’s funeral was far from this norm. 


Honoring his explicit wishes, his family kept his service simple and solemn, there was no vigil, no tributes read, and no feast or music. 


Family and friends wore no special funeral clothes, and his burial took place just 21 days after his passing. 


The program was modest yet dignified: attendees filed past the body, the casket was closed, and the service featured hymns, Bible readings, testimony, and a sermon.


No food or drinks were served, and there was no sitting or gathering afterward.


This was how Avenorgbo wished to be remembered—without the fanfare and his family honored his wishes by keeping the focus on his life’s work and the legacy he left behind. 


As the service concluded, the message resonated deeply with those present. "It is indeed not in death that your good works should be celebrated; your good works should be celebrated when you are still alive."


Following the service, Avenorgbo was laid to rest in a private ceremony attended by close family members, marking the end of a life lived with purpose, humility, and grace.

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