A tribute to my darling Aunty Joy!

I want to share a story about my aunty Joy, that some of you may not know. She was the first aunty of mine to marry one of my uncles, Uncle Sylva who we all called uncle Supac. My mom being his older sister, so of course I was one of her flower girls at their wedding along with her sister Nkiru Chime. She made an impression on me, my aunty Joy was aways dressed very fashionably back then in the 1970’s and I thought of her as my ‘modern’ aunty. Aunty Joy as we would say marammma nwanyi, was a beautiful, tall, classy and deeply spiritual woman, known for her outgoing and cheerful personality and her devotion to her Christian faith. She was the life of the party, and whenever she showed up at our family gatherings, you will know that she had arrived. Aunty Joy was a natural organizer always taking care of everyone. My mother, Nono Nwakego Grace Ejike (Nee Chidobem), her sister-in-law, affectionately called her “Joy Lady.” My late father, Chiweyite Aguowulu Ejike, her brother-in-law, shared a special nickname with her, showing the close bond they shared. Aunty Joy was always preoccupied with the well-being of others, especially my late uncle Supac, whom she lovingly cared for. I believe that God is now taking care of her in eternal life, and she continues to be a guiding angel for her beloved children and us here on earth. Aunty Joy’s beautiful soul was like a whirlwind, bringing joy and happiness to all who knew her. May her gentle soul rest in peace with Uncle Supac until we meet again.

Nene Ne-emelie Ejike-Ogwara