On Friday, January 17, 2025, the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ibowon, Lagos State, witnessed a solemn yet uplifting event as the remains of late Madam Felicia Idowu Famoroti were committed to the earth. Born on October 14, 1933, this remarkable woman, known for her amiable and accommodating nature, passed away on November 22, 2024, at the age of 91.

Madam Famoroti was the mother of the late Reverend Father Cosmos Famoroti, a beloved priest of the Catholic Diocese of Abeokuta, who passed away in 2011. Her funeral Mass drew an impressive assembly of clergy and laity, with 30 priests from Lagos Archdiocese, Abeokuta, Ijebu-Ode, Ekiti, Osogbo, and Oyo Dioceses concelebrating the liturgy. The Mass, officiated by the Very Rev. Father Emmanuel Oriyomi, the Vicar General of Abeokuta Diocese, commenced at 10:00 a.m. and lasted for two hours.

During the homily, Rev. Father Edward Oladele, a classmate of the late Father Cosmos, spoke movingly about the life of Madam Famoroti. He expressed gratitude on behalf of the family for the overwhelming support shown to her after the death of her son. He highlighted her unwavering hospitality, noting that she never neglected anyone, especially the priests.

Father Oladele reflected on the readings of the day, emphasizing the meaning of righteousness and the ability to bring good out of challenging situations. “Despite all odds, the righteous will laugh again,” he assured the congregation. He urged those present not to live a life of sadness, as Madam Famoroti exemplified hope and joy, despite her losses. Known for her accommodating spirit, she embraced over 200 children in her community, serving as a mother figure to many.

“Mama believed in the power of the Rosary and was deeply prayerful,” Father Oladele noted, charging everyone to emulate her virtues by living a life of faith and gratitude instead of complaint.

Following Communion, the parish priest extended a warm welcome to all attendees and expressed appreciation for their contributions to the success of the burial. Representatives from parishes where Father Cosmos had worked, priests, religious, and laity, were all commended for their presence and support.

Fr. Thaddeus Ajayi, speaking on behalf of Father Cosmos’ classmates, thanked everyone for honoring their late friend’s mother. The Vicar General, Very Rev. Father Dr. Emmanuel Oriyomi, paid glowing tributes to the departed, celebrating her honesty, sincerity, and integrity, which had positively impacted countless lives.

The family and friends of Madam Famoroti led the congregation in a heartfelt thanksgiving, marking the end of the liturgy. The reception and entertainment that followed were spread across various sections of the town, allowing people from all walks of life to celebrate the legacy of a truly remarkable woman.

Madam Felicia Idowu Famoroti’s life was a testament to faith, resilience, and love. Her memory will remain evergreen in the hearts of those she touched. May her soul rest in perfect peace.

 Rev. Fr. Cosmas Olufemi Famoroti was until his death Vocation Director for Catholic Diocese of Abeokuta. The members of Late Father Famoroti last Parish as a parish Priest (St. Peter Catholic Church, Ota) were well represented, with good number of the members of Confraternity of Christian Mothers and general Laity members of all the Churches under St. Peter during his time in the parish.