TRIBUTE TO OUR ICON – BIG MAMA
We call her Big Mama or Momsy depending on the mood in the house. 
My first encounter with Big Mama was during our journey to becoming family: the solemnization of Mary Friday and Chijioke Chidobem. 
It was a relief and noteworthy that our daughter was marrying into a decent Igbo Christian home.
I will share two significant exemplary encounters of who Big Mama was to us (Lady Joy Nkechi Agatha Chidobem) 
As the Eldest and the Mother Representative in my home. I was unable to make the traditional wedding held in our ancestral home.
It is cultural to send representatives, in-laws, and siblings. The feedback I received was pleasant. Everyone attested to the fact that she welcomed our daughter with exotic joy, receiving her into her home while glorifying the entire family. Not many women are capable of doing this. I would also like to acknowledge that this is a testament to our in-laws. The reception and warmth we received on the day of the wedding is the same till date. 
We are honored to be a part of such beautiful people, rich in culture and etiquette. Thank you all for the peace and honor shared between both our homes. 
For most mothers-in-law, there is always “drama” and a signature undertone of subtle conflict, especially during wedding ceremonies and Omugwo. Momsy was always classy, and she carried herself with great panache and a dignified demeanor dignifiable of a lady. During the white wedding, she bought and sent me my orange-coloured traditional aso-ebi, a gesture I will never forget. The only thing left was to take me to a couture designer to fabricate my dress. 
Big Mama was always full of surprises. She never accommodated dull moments, and her admiration for art, language, and culture perhaps gave her a deeper essence to live life to the fullest. Her presence brought joy, and she embodied peaceful living. 
It was a thrill to have Big Mama over during the Omugwo of our first grandchild, Tonia Chidobem. I love how she loves the grandkids and all of us around her. she spends quality time, she is always in the moment, savouring and enjoying every conversation with everyone.
Big Mama was never afraid to lead or proffer solutions to challenges. She took challenges head-on.
I feel pained that we didn’t get the opportunity to fully celebrate our ICON.
She was a good example of what a true mother and mother-in-law should be.
Perhaps, it’s important to pause and reflect on the fact that we should all live more intentionally, checking up on one another.  

I will miss Momsy, I will miss some good cooking and lovely engaging conversations,
I will miss her perspective on issues, and the ice cream trips.
Indeed, I will miss all the blessings of home. 
Adieu! Sweet Mother! We may have lost you in the physical, but your legacies, teachings, and presence are here with us. 
We feel blessed knowing that Heaven has gained yet another angel.
Thank you for your leadership and bold perspective, always guiding us with light and love. 
You will be greatly missed!
We love you, Big Mama! 
May your gentle soul continue to rest in the bosom of the Lord!
Amen!!!

Pharm. Princess Uduak Ndubuisi
For: The Friday Edem Family