16/01/2025
A Century of Grace: The Celebration of Papa Geoffrey Nwoye Anachunam’s Life and Legacy
Not Gone, But Glorified: A Final Salute to a Pillar of Faith
By Ifedi Okeke, Aguata News Media
Umunya, Anambra State – In a world where time moves relentlessly, some lives leave an indelible imprint on the sands of history. Such is the life of Papa Geoffrey Nwoye Anachunam (Ezi Okwu Bu Ndu), a revered patriarch, devout Christian, and compassionate soul who journeyed into eternal glory in 2024, aged 99 years. His passing was not mourned in sorrow, but celebrated in faith, gratitude, and an outpouring of love from family, friends, and well-wishers.
Between January 7th and 12th, 2025, Umunya became the epicenter of a grand farewell, as a series of memorial events honored a man who embodied kindness, wisdom, and unwavering faith.
Faith in Action: A Crusade of Salvation and Healing
The journey of Papa Geoffrey’s transition into eternity began with a two-day crusade, organized by the Glory of God Mountain of Life Ministry UK, held at his residence, No. 40 Menakaya Road, Ojobi Umunya.
Themed "Jesus the Way, the Truth, and the Life," the crusade resonated with a powerful message of salvation, a fitting tribute to a man whose life was deeply rooted in Christian values. An assembly of powerful ministers led the congregation in prayer, worship, and spiritual awakening:
Evangelist Dr. Edward Oamen (Lagos)
Rev. Charles & Pastor (Mrs) Shirley Igbinosa (Benin City)
Pastor Dr. Sab O. Alumona (Umunya)
Pastor Dr. Nelson Nduruka (South Africa)
Evangelist Mike Obiajulum (Umunya)
Pastor Prosper Sunday Mgbemena (Lagos)
Pastor Ade Osifo (Benin City)
Pastor Ken Ogbogu (Umunya)
Pastor Mrs. Meg Ugwuanyi (Umunya)
Under the illumination of evening lights, voices rose in hymns, souls found solace, and testimonies of healing and renewed faith filled the atmosphere. It was a crusade not just for the departed, but for the living, a reflection of Papa Geoffrey’s legacy—one that continues to inspire.
A Night of Reflection: Service of Songs & Testimonies
On the 9th of January, the air was thick with emotions as St. James Church Umunya led the Service of Songs, a night dedicated to stories of love, kindness, and the enduring impact of Papa Geoffrey’s life.
One by one, family members, friends, and community leaders stepped forward to share their memories:
A community leader recounted how he never let a person leave his home hungry, or without a gift
A woman shared how Papa Geoffrey had supported her paying her salary of 10,000 naira at a time of despair.
A woman in tears narrated how he would offer prayers, how he gave her School a shelter for 20 years without charging her a dime.
His life, as they said, was a lesson in generosity, a textbook on kindness, and a testament to selfless service.
A Final Journey in Honour: The Burial Ceremony
As dawn broke on January 10th, a motorcade left Beatrice Mortuary at 7:00 a.m., carrying the mortal remains of a man whose soul had long been immortalized in the hearts of many. His children, extended family, and well-wishers followed in solemn reflection as the convoy moved towards his residence for the lying-in-state.
Tears mixed with whispered prayers as loved ones filed past his body, paying their last respects. Yet, amidst the sorrow, there was a silent acknowledgment of a life well-lived, a race well-run.
From his home, the convoy made its way to St. James Church Umunya, where a Christian funeral service was conducted. The officiating priest reminded all present that Papa Geoffrey was not a man of material wealth, yet he was richer than most—his wealth was in love, in the lives he touched, in the smiles he created.
As his remains returned home for final interment, a procession led by a musical band transformed grief into celebration—a reminder that in Igbo tradition, to live well is to be celebrated even in death.
With prayers from the Anglican clergy, Papa Geoffrey Nwoye Anachunam was laid to rest.
The Final Thanksgiving: A Life Worthy of Praise
On Sunday, January 12th, 2025, his family gathered once more, not to mourn, but to give thanks at St. James Church Umunya. The Outing Service was not just a religious formality—it was a public declaration that his legacy lives on, his spirit remains with them, and his impact will never fade.
His children, clad in white, stood together in unity, a reflection of his teachings—family above all, faith above fear, love above all things.
Beyond a Man: The Legacy of Papa Geoffrey Nwoye Anachunam
What makes a man truly great? Is it the wealth he amasses? The titles he holds? Or is it the number of lives he touches?
Papa Geoffrey owned no skyscrapers, yet he built a kingdom of goodwill.
He held no political position, yet he was a leader in his own right.
He wrote no books, yet his life was a manuscript of lessons worth reading.
In Umunya, in Onitsha, in Benin, across Nigeria and beyond, the echoes of his good deeds will linger for generations.
As his people say, “A great tree has fallen, but its roots continue to nourish the earth.”
And so, in faith and gratitude, we do not say goodbye.
We say: Papa Geoffrey Nwoye Anachunam lives on.
Published by Aguata News Media
