By Mfonobong Ukpong
The Clerk of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Mrs. Nsikak-Abasi Orok, has bid a final farewell to her grandmother, Late Deaconess Elizabeth Jumbo A. Udoh, who was laid to rest over the weekend.
The funeral service, held over the weekend at the deceased’s residence in Awa Ndon, Onna Local Government Area, was a celebration of a remarkable life spanning 105 years. Family, friends, and well-wishers gathered to honor the legacy of the late matriarch, who was revered as a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.
Born in 1919 to the family of Late Mr. and Mrs. Jonah Nkodo Etukudo Essien of Awa Iman, Deaconess Elizabeth was married to the late Reverend Jumbo Udo of Nung Odiong in Awa Ndon. A devout Christian, she remained a dedicated member of Christ Royal Kingdom Church International until her passing on October 19, 2024.
The funeral service was officiated by Pastor (Mrs.) Mfon Nyeneime Jumbo, alongside Pastor Prince John, Prophet Ernest Paul, Pastor Asuquo Sunday, Prophet Samuel Ime, Evangelist Uduak Mkpong, and several other ministers of the gospel.
Delivering a sermon titled “Fight a Good Fight of Faith” from 2 Timothy 4:7, Prophet Ernest Paul urged the congregation to live purposefully and uphold their faith. He described the late Deaconess as a woman of unwavering devotion whose life of service and righteousness will be fondly remembered.
He further emphasized the importance of accepting Jesus Christ, stating, “You must receive Jesus Christ as your Saviour and Lord to fight the fight of faith successfully.”
In a tribute, one of her grandchildren, Mrs. Nsikan Abasi Orok who is the clerk of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly said the late Deaconess Elizabeth Udoh lived a fulfilled life.
Deaconess Elizabeth’s remains were laid to rest in her family compound.
The funeral was graced by notable dignitaries, including the Deputy Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly and his wife, Rt. (Hon.) and Mrs. Kufreabasi Edidem; House Leader, Hon. Sunday Johnny (Onna); Rt. (Hon.) Otobong Bob; Hon. Jerry Otu (Ikot Ekpene/Obot Akara), among others.
Late Deaconess Elizabeth is survived by three children, 24 grandchildren, 39 great-grandchildren, and a host of relatives who continue to cherish her legacy of love, faith, and kindness.
