By Ebriku John Friday
The father of former minister of environment, Chief John Odey, Pa Odey Thomas Opiepe has passed on at the age of 111. He was born on April 25, 1903.
Pa Odey died in the early hours ofAugust 24, 2014, after a brief illness at his residence in Ayinakpor-Olachor, Okpoma, Yala local government area of Cross River State.
He was a great farmer and notable fashion designer, whose industry remained outstanding till date. He was also a peace loving community leader and a rallying point, who has contributed positively to the development of the community, local government, state and the nation in general.
He is survived by two wives, 11 children, among who is the former minister of information and communication, and environment, Chief John Odey, over 30 grandchildren and numerous great grandchildren. Pa Odey died as a committed Christian.
A statement signed by Comrade Magu Thomas Odey on behalf of the family said the funeral arrangements to celebrate the great son of the Yala nation will soon be made public.
“Papa’s enormous wealth of knowledge and experience, which has been a constant support and guild in our lives will be greatly missed. His invaluable counseling has contributed to not only our growth and progress, but to the members of the entire family, the Olachor-Okpoma community and Yala nation as a whole.
“The family regrets the irreparable loss but remain thankful to God as his passing away calls for a celebration of life well lived. This is not time for mourning because papa lived a wonderful and fulfilling life, which is a priceless and incomparable one.”
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