Celebrating a life short but well lived

Tribute to my Daughter MRS. LINDA DELALI AKOSUA ANAN (NEE KWAWU). My beloved daughter, Linda or Lin as I affectionately called her came into the world as quickly as she suddenly left us to eternity.

On FRIDAY, OCTOBER 20, 1967, I went to the Maternity Ward of Korle Bu for my regular antenatal check up. It was found necessary to admit me for further and detailed examination. Little did I know that my expected baby was ready to enter the world, but to my nice surprise a dainty baby girl was delivered at the dawn of SUNDAY, OCTOBER 22, 1967. She came out simply and easily without any complications.

With my knowledge in child development, she was brought up systematically as a cute baby loved by anyone who had a glimpse of her. In her early childhood, she liked finery and beautiful clothing therefore we nicknamed AFRO LINDA. She was also very clever and innovative thus her mate made her class prefect at the Association International School. She later entered Achimota Senior School where she sat for and passed the Common Entrance Examination. We had lots of fun together until she left for a stay in the United Kingdom where she developed into adulthood and got married to a man of her choice.

Her surprised visit and get-together in my honor was by Divine Order. I thank God for giving her to me as a daughter but decided to take her back at His appointed time for her on earth.

The legacy she left behind includes devotion to the work of God’s Church and Beauty as her name implies. Linda simply means Pretty. She will be forever missed but I’m convinced she died in the Holy Week with Our Lord Jesus and rose with him. Consequently she is in Paradise with Christ Jesus to continue her Evangelical and out-reach programme for the church.

Linda, I love you very much but God your creator loves you best, Rest in Perfect peace till we meet again. Amen!

It’s hard to take in the death of the loved one, particularly when the deceased was taken so suddenly and shockingly at the prime life of the person.

Aside from the Living God, who guided me under the canopy of his perpetual divine mercy throughout my educational and ministerial training, Linda had been present in assisting in my endeavours.

It’s not metaphoric, but literally assertive when the bible says that “Whosoever finds a good wife finds a treasure”.

Linda was not only a good wife to me, but a good mother to our daughter, Adom.

She responded positively to the christian values instilled in her, as a young person, by her mother, and continued with me throughout her life. She lived a godly life, loving God and other people.

May her soul rest in his perfect peace

Daughter pays tribute to Mum – Adom Anan

My heart shattered when my dad called with the dreadful news that I will never forget. Mum suddenly died at home. It was the worst day of my life.

It does not make sense! She had no health conditions and hadn’t shown any signs of being ill. Plus, I’d been speaking to her just a few hours before. I sent her a text, when she didn’t reply, I just thought she must be busy. No she is gone!

Mum had always wanted to go travelling, but was waiting until I was older. We had decided that we were going to go to Greece together, but were leaving it until next year because of coronavirus. We will not have the chance now. My bestie is gone!

Mum sacrificed a lot. She worked as a beauty teacher at several colleges nearby to be close to family. She really, really enjoyed her work. She wanted to be able to teach others how to run their own salons. Several of her past students now have successful beauty businesses.

Outside of her work and her family, my mum’s biggest love was the church. She was extremely religious and very dedicated to her church and its community. She really, really loved the church. She would always take me along with her and it was really fun. We have a really good church family and they have been a great support to me.

My mum was joyful, dedicated and optimistic, bubbly and an amazing person. Her strong belief in Christianity, her beliefs about what happens after death provides me comfort. I know that she is happy, and that has really helped me.

I will continue in the path you set me, mum. I can’t go wrong now that I have my own guiding angel looking out for me.

Rest well Mum
Adom

Charles Kwawu

I cried when you passed away, I still cry today. Although I loved you dearly, I couldn’t make you stay. Your golden heart stopped beating, hard working hands at rest . God broke my heart to prove to me, he only takes the best. Rest in peace my dear Sister. Hede nyuie. Tɔr woaga mɔr.

Tribute by Franklin Kwawu

Where do I start? How do I write a tribute to my untimely departed sister?

Linda, you and I were more like twins. We did stuff together from Kaneshie to Airport Residential to US and back to Cantoments. We celebrated our birthdays together, went to the same schools. We hung out. In Accra, I dropped you and your pals at the Gig’s. We roamed together and most definitely enjoyed Aquinas long ‘vac’ classes. I know! I know! I was protective of you but you looked out for me too. I’m gonna surely miss this.

I reminisce about the family convoy trips to Gbadzeme during Easter with our cousins and the fun we had together in particular, “follow the leader”, meandering the rocky terrain all over Gbadzeme. Wow,!! all these memories still linger.

In the States, we shared a room, shared TV and had to negotiate on the school bus coming home, which cartoon programmes to watch, sang in choir, went to slumber parties. You were my support. I remember I was scared to learn how to swim in Reno, you’d jumped into the water and swam like a dolphin, encouraging me to do the same.

Back to Accra and then ‘my cook’ went to school in London in’ 86. I was left alone in Cantonments. Frankly I was distraught. I missed my buddy and your scrumptious ‘cho’. We continued to talk till we hooked up again in London for summer, I think at 18. You showed me London town!

I went on to college in the US, we wrote and we talked. During summer in London we had good times at the coffee shops on Oxford and Regent Street Soho, Piccadilly circus woww!! We had fun. Everytime we met, you looked smashing, gorgeous, chic. After graduation, I joined you in London. I could see how relieved you were. Oh boy, I was too. We became so busy but we continued to talk.

Across the pond to the North later, we constantly spoke. Back in London, Adom, you and me gathered at every free time you had and boy did we love to eat those home baked brownies. Did you not wonder why I came to visit so often? It was for your scrumptious ‘cho!’ Our lives became packed with the families we had created. But still we managed our weekly calls with a sprinkle of visits. I am going to miss our talking…

Linda, all my memories have you in them. How am I going to reminisce with this pain living in the pit of my stomach which by the way, I’m told, never goes away and “I just have to learn to live with it?”

Your care for me was impeccable. You advised, ensured I had my needs. You always got me a treat every time you saw me. When you consulted about having “me” time, I was elated and we unanimously thought Accra. You filled my heart with joy when you said “I’ll spend time with mum and myself.” Off you went to Accra. Here’s what you did. You took taxis, uber. Visited Makola. Ate Hausa koko, bofloat, waakye. You visited many cousins and many uncles, your pal Belinda. In retrospect, you went to say goodbye, didn’t you?!!

You came straight from Heathrow airport to see me excited. It was an exhilarating happy time we had. We talked incessantly about your experience back home. We had fun… Girl. I’ll miss that so much.

You continued working diligently well into the wee hours of the morning preparing stuff for the church combined with seeing Adom on campus and ensuring your husband and I were comfortable. I’m still thrilled you recently joined your 85′ posse from Achimota on WhatsApp to catch up.

You just started your new job at Islington college. Your students, especially the adult ones adored you and loved the course you had designed and delivered to them. You quickly adapted to online lectures with the advent of covid – 19. Quite impressive I recall, sharing those sentiments. I admired your work ethics and your knowledge.

On Monday April 7th at dawn I sent you some pictures you never received. That morning, a strange excruciating pain moved to live in the pit of my stomach which I shared with my wife. I heard her crying later on. She started the dreadful “I’m sorry…” before she could finish, I said, ” I know… it’s Linda!.” You had come by to say bye earlier. My goodness Linda, you don’t play fair! But I’m not complaining!

Linda shared a plethora of soul healing worship & praise and music she recorded. She shared scripture with me. She spoke words of healing over me. I’m going to miss all that stuff. Linda the Lord loves you most.

Romans 6:8 Now if we died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him. Linda, dearest, the Lord loves you most.

Rest in Perfect peace.

Jacqueline Kwawu

Linda was our fulcrum. She held us all together when dad passed away four years ago and has been our pillar since then.

I miss her every day. I am angry, sad, confused and in disbelief that I can’t hear her voice when I call her up to chat about anything and nothing.

Linda was full of love and kindness and generosity. She was someone I admired and hoped to emulate. She was hardworking, resilient and had a wonderfully positive outlook on life even in the face of adversity. She was always quick to smile and offer reassurances whenever you brought anything up to her. She was accomplished and respected by all the knew her

She will be dearly missed.

Adliad Elaine Kwawu

I may have not known Linda most of my life- and I feel like that would’ve been a great burden if I had not experienced these short few years with her. Each time I had a chance to get to know my sister I felt like I knew her my whole life. We connected on many different things including family values, entrepreneurialism and empathy. Linda always cared about my situation, even when I was down or needed sisterly love. She was always there and continued to believe in me as I pursued my passions. I’ll never forget that.

Linda’s empathy was always her greatest strength. Her love for God and her endless faith made her character filled with empathetic care for all humans. No matter how tough life’s battles were pushed upon her, she always handled it like a warrior. Her laugh was her greatest weapon. Every moment she smiled and laughed, it was immediately contagious. Her passion for living life always seemed to immediately capture anyone that spent time with her. I’m positive everyone will remember her laughs and smiles forever. Just the thought of her smiling towards me now has kept my mind at peace and her consistent laughter has kept my heart motivated to make her proud.

Hillary Kwawu

I remember the first time I saw you when you arrived in Ghana and that first hug, was soo warm. I felt the sibling love. I remember when I had a massive headache during our time spent in Ghana (October 2016) and you gave me the best “temple massage”… my headache was gone within minutes. I still use this technique today…Even on loved ones…I tell them “my sister taught me” and she’s soo good at it. I remember when you told me I shouldn’t stop chasing my dreams because you’d be right there cheering me on and Dad would be soo proud too….when I’m done with school. Sis, I’m graduating in two weeks And I wanted to call you and tell you soo bad but you’re not here anymore. I know you’re somewhere safe and smiling beautifully as always.. resting peacefully because you had the biggest heart. I love you soo much!

Adeline Aidoo OAA85

Remembering our dear Linda.

We were all so excited when Linda joined our WhatsApp forum in February of this year.

Some of us had not seen Linda since we left Achimota School some 30+ odd years ago. The news of your sudden passing has left us reeling in shock! How can this be? We barely said hello and now it seems that we have to say farewell. We are thankful that we had the opportunity to reminisce and relive our shared memories.

We pray that your family will always be comforted by their sweet memories of you.

Rest in heavenly peace 🌹

Linda was a lady by all standards. Courteous and pleasant. She always wore a smile and her deep-set dimples were an added bonus to her charm. Her laughter would infect everyone around her.

Always willing to keep anyone company.

She was disciplined and very remarkable as a cadet…

Christine Obeng (nee Dzidzienyo) OAA85

Was extremely shocked and saddened to hear that Linda has passed away. May she Rest in Perfect Peace. Sincere condolences to her family.

Cecilia Odame – Labi OAA85

Linda, I could not believe the news of your passing. I was so saddened. You were so kind-hearted and were always willing to share. You always had a way of infecting others around you with your deep smile. I remember us connecting one weekend during visiting hours, when we found out that my dad and your mom knew each other.
Even though I never saw you after graduating, we are able to reconnect on Facebook after many years. Little did I know that we had very little time to catch up on old school days, especially when we shared a dorm!
Linda although you are gone, memories of you will continue to linger in our hearts. May your gentle soul rest in perfect peace Linda!

Cordelia Akompong OAA85

Linda, my bubbly dorm mate in Slessor. We shared our homemade on Sundays and you especially loved your Mom’s French toast. I smile remembering your muffled giggles at the Cadet Square, yet resilient, as we stood in our starched fatigues, proudly bearing those heavy SLRs & SMGs. We kept in touch across the miles on FB and you would passionately share your creativity in writing and faith in God. I will miss your video anecdotes of deer, lights & snow – so appreciative of life! Dear sister in Christ, you have run the race and kept the faith, your crowns now await you. Rest in perfect peace, till we meet again.

Yvonne Ogunsanlu (nee Asare Odei) OAA85

Linda! Linda! We miss you
You are us and we are you
The bond we share never broken…
Though some may sail away though others may
lose touch, though we may
Hibernate, though the storms may come and go… This
bond we share anchored in a
precious moment in time draws us back into a
familiar place to remind us that… We are
you, you are us…

As we say our goodbyes we say “see you later”
but in the meantime, we stand with the family
you’ve left behind to let them know that…

We are each other.Though we may pass

away, our bond we share remains forever!

Rest In Perfect Peace

Tribute to my Lovely Aunt From Dodzi Kwawu

Auntie Linda, it is hard to believe that the angels have packed you home at a time I least expected. I hardly take in the fact that your sudden demise has unexpectedly terminated the moments I enjoyed with you.

I do wonder if I will ever find anyone to take your place! you left a hollow no one can ever fill halfway.

If I had known, coming to Ghana just a few months ago was the last time of seeing you, I would have stopped you from leaving.

Fare thee well auntie Linda, you fought a good fight and won the race. You left a legacy that will be read through the generations, current and to come. You left a mark in my heart and nothing will ever erase. It is indelible in my heart.

You were a gem and will remain to be cherished.

Surely auntie, my love for you will forever remain!!!

Fare thee well Auntie …

Rest in perfect peace…

Tribute by Mrs G A A Boachie (Atawa)

On that sullen Tuesday morning when the paramedics announced your sudden departure, I was torn and couldn’t believe you were gone. You were coming for us to have a chat but it was not to be. I didn’t even know what you were going to say.

Aunty Linda was a very bubbly character, her warm personality and her infectious laughter could light up any room. She took her church duties very seriously and wouldn’t trade it for anything. I will always cherish the lovely memories that we shared together.

One I vividly remember was when we went for a girls day out and pampered ourselves. We got home feeling relaxed but our hair was messy! Rev. Gabriel asked “Ah! I thought you two went out to do your hair!”. That was a good laugh.

Our last conversation was when you had completed your online teaching with you students and went out for some fresh air. As usual you saw the deers grazing aimlessly on the field ignoring the lockdown rules.

I always ask myself how you could leave us in such a time like this but hey, who are we to question our maker? Besides, he knows the best for his children. We will always treasure you in our hearts and you and your legacy will never be forgotten.

Rest in peace

Hede nuie demerifa duei.

Ato waga mo

The tribute to my Aunty Linda by Kekeli Kwawu

We could not begin to count how many times we spent together. My Aunty turned everyone’s frown into a smile, consoled our heartbreak and disappointment. We listened to words that shock us and burst into tears because it was our dear Aunty who passed away for no reason because we loved her and she loved us very much. My Aunty Linda was a kind lady.

I say she is the best person in our entire family. Aunty has accomplished her mission and rose to heaven with Jesus. We will always remember Aunty Linda .The year holds precious memories of her. Aunty Linda, rest in unharmful peace. The family will always remember her.

“For whether we live, we live unto the Lord; and whether we die, we die unto the Lord: whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord’s.” Romans 14:8, KJV

The late “sister Linda” as she is affectionately known in the congregation joined Mustard Seed Chapel International (Lighthouse Chapel International) in March 2017 and has remained a faithful and committed member of the church until her untimely demise on 6th April 2020.

Our dear sister Linda was a principled and a passionate woman who immediately put her talents, capabilities and potential at the disposal of the church right from the day she joined. This commitment to the church and the Lord’s work was very evident through the several groups and ministries she immediately joined and actively participated in.

She was an active member of the choir, the media team and a passionate leader of a small intercessory prayer group where she even led a prayer meeting the very night before her untimely death the following morning.

Indeed, the congregation will dearly miss her ever presence at all meetings, her intelligent suggestions and a “can do” attitude toward all church endeavours.

As a church we can confidently say, sister Linda was indeed a virtuous woman who exhibited so much love, trust and loyalty to the things she believed in and has impacted positively on the many lives that encountered her.

Although we’re all saddened by her sudden call to glory, we are at the same time honoured to say that as a true soldier of Christ, “she came, she lived well, and she triumphed”.

We will dearly miss you Linda, nevertheless we take solace in the scripture that “…Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them.” Rev. 14:13

Fare thee well and may our faithful Lord receive you in His bosom and grant you eternal rest, Amen.

Tribute by Belinda G.Amorin, Linda’s best pal

This can’t be true! It is almost surreal for me,”Belinda G.Amorin”, a childhood friend of Linda Kwawu to be writing a tribute on the occasion of her death. Linda and I have been friends, having spent our childhood and adolescence at Cantonments, Accra. In 1986 Linda left for London to continue her education but didn’t let the physical separation undermine the relationship. We always kept in touch right to the end. Last February, almost as if to say goodbye, Linda spent the last day of her visit to Ghana with me. We “bossed.” We reminisced about our times together, we played back our ‘adventures’. We laughed over the childish pranks we played on our parents! We had a lot of fun. We talked about our future, and indeed she shared her relocation plans with me. There was a whole exciting life ahead of us, or so we thought; I have not recovered from the shock of the news of her demise. “Is Linda really gone?”

I’ve lost not just a friend but a sister. I’ve lost one in whose company I knew I could be myself. With Linda, there were no pretenses she had no airs, and no egos. She was genuine. Linda was exceptionally self-assured, was unfailingly supportive and loyal. I am really struggling to find the right words to describe this incredible lady. How can I describe one of the most selfless persons I had the privilege and pleasure to call a friend. Linda touched many lives and I know many will attest to her humanity. My heart is aching but even as I struggle with this tragic loss, I must say I take comfort in the belief that heaven is one star brighter. Fare thee well my sister. We shall certainly meet again.

Joyce Kwawu – Sister-in-law

Little did I know that God was going to call your name. In life I loved you dearly, In death I do the same. It broke my heart to lose you, as the two weeks you spent with me was very memorable. Your love is still my guide. Our family chain is broken, but as God calls us one by one, the chain will link again.

So rest in peace my dear sister

In law and I thank you for all the unforgettable moments. I pray that God has given you the crown you’ve truly won. Rest in the bosom of the Lord. Tɔr woaga mɔr.

Yaa Yaa Kwawu – Sister-in-law

Let me reminisce…

I still have not dealt with your passing Linda. I may never do! I still carry the warm fuzzy feeling you engendered in me, expecting to continue in our budding close friendship. I envy those who have known longer because the short time you let me in, we thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. We light up like children with every little ‘win’. This was barely 6 weeks before your passing.

Your last visit in February was prophetic! As you put it – “to honour and spend time with my mum”. Lucky me that I got to spend that time with you too. In two weeks, my hair and skin got so much love from your easy-to-manage beauty routine. It brought home to me what flawless skill you have in Beauty care.

I so admired your love and sacrifice for your family and church. Your ability to see challenges as your signal to try harder! Your sweet innocence was the butt of many of our jokes. You are truly unique. Rest well sis. Keli and I will miss you dearly. I really don’t know who your brother is going to hassle at 11pm in the night with all sorts!

I say goodbye with plenty to remember you by, and even more to improve my life.

Thank you Sis. Fare thee well.

Victor Anku-Tsede

How do you write a tribute for a person who sat before you just a few days ago, so alive, a breath of fresh air, bubbly and excited? How do you write a tribute about one who a few minutes ago was so full of life?

Linda called out of the blue on a day in February and asked for directions to come visit me at home that day. This was promptly given to her. As at 8pm she still had not arrived and we thought she would not make it. But then she called again and said he was at the gate. Linda was indeed here with her trademark dimpled smile. My wife and I promptly led her in and had a wonderful evening chatting and reminiscing about growing up together in Accra, while she drank green tea.

Recollecting sleep overs, we engaged in a debate as to who had bathed whom, when we were young. Linda insisted that she bathed me as a kid. Of course, I denied it, and indicated it was the other way round. Since none of us was ready to accept the others’ account, we agreed to adjourn the outcome of our debate till later. Oh Linda! We will never know now. We spoke about many things. Our trips to Gbadzeme during Easter and visits to the Aburi Botanical Gardens. We spoke of the days she used to live at the Airport Residential Area and Cantonments and a lot more. All these, brought back very fond memories. I can still hear her laughter ringing in my ear.

What brings you home, my wife and I asked? She replied, “This is my rest time. Me time. My time to reconnect with Accra all by myself. I plan to take the trotro and taxi. I will visit Makola and live the Ghana life she said. I want to eat Waakye, kelewele and kenkey”. She added, I want to spend time with my Mother.

She did well and truly enjoyed her days back home. Her quarrels with Uber drivers who could not locate where she was going were hilarious. Her insistence on good service and customer care by these drivers and people who render service had me grinning all the time.

Oh I have just joined the WhatsApp group of my mates from Achimota, and there are so many messages I have not been able to read them. I can’t make a lot of people out but am catching up quickly. Wonderful memories, she said to me on catching up with long lost friends on WhatsApp.

A few days later, she was at my office, Afelete she said, I need to ensure that all matters concerning my father’s Estate are sorted before I go back. What do I have to do she asked. Some three or more meetings later, including one where she and Yaa Yaa to ask if I was in the office and since I was about to set off, I said yes, only to find that they were parked right in front of my house having first stopped by the office and found I was not in. Boy! Did those two have a good laugh at my expense. The end result was we had letters written which she and Charles delivered.

Her visit to the office was also beneficial to me as she helped resolve an IT problem I was facing with my computer.

“I am off and leave things with Charles till I return… Will call to say bye later. Have a blessed day and I pray you get your hands on the tape and are successful with your case…..”(Alluding to a matter I was dealing with when she was visiting the office). These were her words to me before leaving the shores of Ghana.

Upon her return to London, we kept communication going. She sent funny anecdotes about staying at home, especially those about men wanting an escape from their wives. I asked why all the jokes were directed against women and she replied “it’s because we nag” and we both burst into laughter.

This is the Linda I knew and would like to remember. I had thought we would continue chatting. See her upon her return, because that’s what she promised.

Linda told me she was a Pastor and so I believe she understood and could say with the apostle Paul that “We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord”. 2 Corinthians 5:8

Linda we love, you but the Lord loves you more. Rest in Perfect peace. Wo baba lo. Tor wa fe mor

Tribute by Kofi Yakpo

It must have been in 1978. My mum took a beautiful picture of you, Franklin, Sena, Aku and I in Uncle Seth Kwawu’s house in Burma Camp. You are standing in the front row with that infectious dimpled smile of yours. One of the many encounters back then that have been engraved in my memory, encounters full of childlike laughter and joyfulness.

We only saw each other again once after that, and very briefly so. It pains me deeply that we won’t be sharing such moments with each other again, and that I did not seize the opportunity to do so when it was still possible. But the childhood bliss in your company will stay with me, deeply engraved in my memory and heart.

Requiescat in pace, dear Linda.

Kofi Yakpo

LINDA DELALI KWAU ANAN – A wonderful life

As I reflect on Linda’s life, really, I am reflecting on my life. The profound memories of our childhood. The times we spent together. The amazing fun we had. Being carefree, inquisitive and yearning to learn. Getting to the stage that we fended for ourselves. Then getting older and coming to the realisation that life is somewhat more complicated. But really, always being family.

Today, I’m here to bid my wonderful cousin goodbye. This is a script I just wasn’t prepared for.

Linda is my big cousin, and she was part of my life even before I knew it. As our families were, whether away, in each other’s presence or not, we always knew what the other person was doing and where they were.

I started out my life three years younger than Linda. Being younger, I don’t recall Linda’s physical presence in my very early years. However, she was present in my family life through photos we received while Linda, Franklin and their parents (Uncle Fred and Auntie Esther) were based in Reno, Nevada.

Sometime in 1976, Franklin and Linda were back in my life. They were present. As any family would be, it was a brilliantly joyous time. Those times profoundly stay in my memory as some of the best times of my life. We were young, we were learning, we were learning about each other, we were bonding with each other, we were doing things together, and we had so much fun. Some key memories include us going to bumper cars at Circle, and to Mark Cofie’s for a milkshake and a meal.

Franklin, Linda, Sena and I spent countless weekends together. I would get picked up on Friday night, we would drive to Burma Camp (Juba Villas) and I would return home on Sunday night. One those visits, Linda and Franklin taught me how to write using cursive. We would sit at the dining table, and I was drilled to perfect the style. My signature today is what I developed then.

As a child, and that never changed, Linda was ever so proper. She was attentive to how her hair was done and made sure, when I visited, I looked good too. We would get our hair stretched in those days – hot combed. Being older, Linda soon moved to high school and our lives diverged a little. Later, I moved overseas, and our lives diverged further. Even so, we stayed in each other’s lives. In our teenage years Linda had relocated to London and every couple of years, I got to see Linda in the UK. Ever so lovely, Linda would do my hair. One time, she gave me these gorgeous ginger highlights using a temporary spray on colour. Sometimes, we would just go out exploring. That continued, intermittently, till we were in our thirties.

Linda became a mum and raised her daughter, Adom. Far afield, I received images and emails. Different family events meant we would reconnect. As soon as we had smartphones, I would contact Linda on her birthday – always. We reached out to each other when we needed to. When we both lost a parent within an eight-month period, we talked about the impact and our experiences. I have the last voice message Linda left me on my birthday, and the one I sent on her birthday. Even so, we had a video call so we could see each other and chat.

We had gotten to the phase of life where we should have been reflecting more, talking to each other more, having more fun; and I’m, sadly, here saying goodbye. It hurts terribly. Thankfully, the memories are for life.

Love always and rest easy,
Gillian

Erwin (Eli), Aba, Sela and Eli (Jr) Kwawu

My family and I have been at a loss of words. Not knowing what to say or write. I could not think of a memory as it was painful, I just couldn’t. It’s been almost a month and putting words to paper is still hard.

Linda was a hoot to talk to. Funny, frolicsome and that laugh. I remember that laugh so much and miss it. I showed up in London with my family in tow some years ago and guess who organized an impromptu party with food and drinks at our apartment and invited other extended family members. Linda of course. Always planning and taking care of others.

How did I become popular as a kid, Linda of course? Everyone wanted to be her friend and that meant being my friend first in order to get close to Linda. They all left me after befriending Linda Kwawu but it made for tons of laughter in between.

In our younger years, we were all inseparable. We went everywhere together, we visited each other all the time. Then as we all got older, schooling and travels led us to our separate parts of the world. Linda to England, Franklin, Sena and I to the US, Gillian to Australia, Kofi to Germany etc. That distance did change some things which is normal. I remember using my calling cards to call London as it was too expensive to call directly. I remember the letters sent to impart my business ideas and the responses Linda sent back. Always funny. Linda had a sense of purpose. Always a mother to everyone. Always a friend and always with a prayer.

The glow she had when she talked about Adom and the dreams she was putting into motion. Adom would come visit us State-side and Sela would come to London in order to become a proper British lady. We laughed. Oh how time flies and dreams get extended too long until a part of that dream vanishes. Adom, you are welcome state-side anytime. I hope you teach Sela all the skills that made your mother so proud of you.

Our prayers go out to the extended Anan and Kwawu families, my brothers and sisters. What comes to mind are the words from Ecclesiastes 3.

To everything
there is a season,
a time for every
matter under heaven;
a time to be born,
and a time to die;
a time to plant,
and a time to pluck
up what is planted;
a time to weep,
and a time to laugh,
a time to mourn,
and a time to dance;
a time to keep.

Keep well Adom, Keep well Franklin, Keep well Grandma Esther, keep well friends, Keep well family. Linda planted, plucked, danced, wept, mourned, prayed and enjoyed her seasons. Rest in Perfect Peace Linda.

To everyone else, Life is fragile, short and very precious. With technology, there is no reason, not to Zoom, Skype, WhatsApp each other.

Tribute To Linda by cousin Nanabea Akoto-Britwum

Linda was close to a big sister to me while we were growing up. She was one of my favorite cousins, the fashionista, the best cook and she made the best hair styles and braids. She would fix my hair, give me hand-me down clothes and dote on me. She had such a good memory and would recall and tell many hilarious stories about her twin aunties and other family members when we all met for weekly Sunday lunch or at Auntie Esther’s home in Cantonments.

Linda was kind, strong willed and passionate about what she believed in and set her mind to. She applied this to her profession and Christianity and made an impact on all who knew her well. She was always joyful, had a heartwarming laughter. She loved singing and you would often find her humming pleasantly to herself. She was fun to be around and loved by family and friends.

Life, professional demands, distance got in the way and our worlds but whenever it was possible we picked up where we left off. We exchanged texts and calls every now and then. It was comforting to know she was always there. We looked forward to seeing each other during my visits to London since my college days in the ‘90s. I last saw Linda on May 2019. It was a brief visit that almost did not happen but she put in every effort and finally squeezed it in. We laughed, took pictures and talked. We were so sure we would meet again as usual but God had a different plan.

Linda, it’s been an emotional roller coaster for me since you passed. I am in denial on most days. I am coping better these days celebrating the good you represented and the love you shared. I will take comfort in knowing that heaven gained an angel. You are in God’s hands big sister. Sleep well till we meet again in the Lord.

Tribute to my daughter by Selina Lawrence

Linda My daughter, I will miss our video calls, your vibrant smile and your loving words. My heart is bleeding. I am going to miss you a lot…but I know you’re at a better place now. I love you and I know you were a devoted Christian…

God loves you more! you’re with him now. Rest in perfect peace ️, Selina Lawrence.

A Tribute to An Amazing Sister Linda by “lil sis” Edem Alorvor-Nunekpeku

It’s just over a month now when I had the call asking me if I had heard what happened to my sister and I kept repeating ” it’s not true, not Linda, how noo??..

Linda happens to be my Godmothers daughter whom I was ment to connect with many years since I came to the UK.Fate brought us together when Linda was invited to Light house chapel /Mustard seed in March2017. I remember us introducing ourselves after church service on the 9th of April 2017 bursting with joy and tears to have met alas! this date coincidentally happened to be 3 years of us meeting and remaining  sisters till date.Linda had always been very proud to introduce me to others as her little sister and will call to check up on me when she doesn’t see me at church outreach.

I will often tell her how much she resembles her mother and that I am not surprised at her dedication and commitment in doing God’s works because that is exactly how mama her mother is which she always remark ” really” with her beautiful and hearty laughter.

Linda has always encouraged me to do more in the church and will often say “am not doing much here you know, I did more work for church of England” 

Linda has always been very punctual or even earlier to attend programs even though she joined the church not quite long. We have always promised having a proper sit down to catch up with each other something she strongly query me about because I seem to have been busy whenever we plan a date.

On the 14th of March, we met at our friend’s 10th wedding anniversary, Linda again asked me to plan a day for us to catch up as sisters and I told her this time definitely we will have our special time this April being the Easter holiday which she laughed saying” I know you are going to be busy and I reassured her we shall meet…

If I am to describe my sister Linda, I will say she is a beautiful being God brought into our lives for a moment and to use her personality to demonstrate to us how to serve the Lord. Linda is beautiful all round and love people wholeheartedly. Am not surprised when Linda called me in February that she was visiting her mum because she just missed her.Linda had finished her service on earth and had to honour her visit to mum to bid her farewell to be able to RECEIVE her CROWN in glory.

It’s like a dream hoping that when the lock-down is over, we can reunite again and listen to your angelic voice you are blessed with.Am assuring myself as a believer of Christ that Linda’s home call  has been ordained by her maker. Linda my dear sister, because of the speed you served the Lord, we are assured that you are smiling beautifully at the right hand side of our saviour Jesus Christ.

A treasure is gone!I will not see my dear sister or hear her American/British accent but your voice will forever linger around.

Thanks for  the few years we spent together. At least God brought us together for a purpose. Mama has always been happy that we made up knowing each other as she had wished for many years.Thanks for the beautiful daughter Adom you left with us. Rest peacefully my dear big sister.

Thelma E. Agbadze’s Tribute to auntie Linda

This is one of the hardest things I have ever had to write. It still feels so surreal that you’ve truly left. I don’t want this tribute to be a sad one as it won’t be a true depiction of who you were here on earth.If I had to choose a word to best describe aunty Linda, it’d be LOVING! Aunty Linda was truly a beautiful soul that just had so much love to give.

She genuinely loved and cared for so many and was always there for anyone who came to her with their troubles. She was so easy to talk to, as she somehow always knew if I had an issue and seemed to always understand. She never judged, condemned, and just simply listened with a nod while she smiled, with an occasional, “mhmm”. And her laugh was truly iconic. It was so large and infectious. Many times, she’ll laugh at non-funny jokes, look at me as I’m not laughing, then ask, “do you get it” while nodding, and that always got me laughing. Aunty Linda, although I know God took you or permitted it, it really hurts that you left so impromptu without any prior warnings, (God kinda “dragged” it there tbh).

But I am consoled in knowing that you’re in heaven and I’ll see you again soon. As I am confident that you’re in heaven, I now look forward to going there a lot more than I did before you left. I trust that you’ve been awarded the glorious mansion that you always mentioned whenever we spoke about heaven.

I really can’t wait for our sleep over parties in heaven.Thank you for who you were to me. Thank you for you for the memories. Thank you for calling me and treating me as your first-born daughter. Thank you for the out-pour of love you showered me with. Thank you for praying for me.

Thank you for the beautiful little sister you’ve given me in Adom. And I promise to do my best for her as her older sister. I love you and see you soon.

Michael O. Addo-Yobo

Rest in perfect peace Linda. The Lord knows best!

To the Anan and Kwawu family, please accept my deepest sympathies!

Martin and Adwoa Nantwi

Awww Linda! I still cant believe our maker has called you back so soon to continue your mission so soon.

We grew up together in Cantonments and in Motown, Franklin was one of my closest friends, making you my little sister along with my sister Adwoa.

Even though we were separated geographically, always felt you were round the corner. You were such a good soul and will be missed sorely.

May God give your family the strength and console them as you are in a better place now until we meet again