Tunde Lemo, Wife Give Deaconess Rachael Coker, 94, a Befitting Farewell in Abeokuta

Former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Tunde Lemo, OFR and his wife, Pastor Mrs. Oluyemi Lemo, on Friday led family members, friends, associates and prominent Nigerians in paying their final respects to the late Deaconess Rachael Adediran Coker (née Osoyade), who was laid to rest following a series of well-attended funeral ceremonies in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

The late matriarch, who passed away in March 2026 at the age of 94, was honoured through a two-day funeral programme comprising a Wake-Keep Service at Henry Townsend Hall, St. Peter’s Cathedral, Ake; a funeral and thanksgiving service themed “Celebrating a Life Well Lived” at Christ Anglican Church, Iporo-Ake; and a grand reception at Legacy Hall, Abeokuta Sports Club, GRA, Ibara.

Throughout the ceremonies, Tunde Lemo and his wife, who is one of the daughters of the deceased, played central roles in coordinating the events and receiving guests who came from within and outside Nigeria to celebrate the life and legacy of the late Deaconess.

The events attracted a broad spectrum of distinguished personalities, including religious leaders, traditional rulers, political figures, financial experts, business leaders, philanthropists and community stakeholders.

Among notable dignitaries in attendance were Otunba Segun Sowunmi, Senator Gbenga Obadara, Otunba Tunji Akinlade and Oba-Edu Ifayomi, alongside several family members, friends and well-wishers who gathered to honour the deceased’s memory.

Guests described Deaconess Coker as a woman of faith, integrity, compassion and strong family values whose impact transcended generations.

The reception ceremony featured cultural displays, tributes and musical performances led by renowned entertainer Taiwo Akinwale Oguntade, popularly known as Big Tee, who entertained guests throughout the celebration.

Photographs and video recordings from the ceremonies reflected the deep affection shared between the late Deaconess and her family, particularly her daughter, Pastor Mrs. Oluyemi Lemo and son-in-law, Tunde Lemo, whose visible commitment to ensuring a befitting farewell drew commendations from attendees.

Many guests praised the organisation of the funeral activities, describing the ceremonies as dignified, memorable and reflective of a life devoted to faith, family and service to humanity.

For the Lemo and Coker families, the burial marked the conclusion of an emotional journey of farewell to a beloved mother, grandmother and matriarch whose legacy of love, sacrifice and godly living will continue to inspire generations.

Though gone, family members said her memories, values and enduring influence would remain deeply cherished by all who knew her.