It was a celebration of life as men and women of goodwill gathered around the family of Olowoyeye to bury their deceased Father, Pa. Martin Sunday Olowoyeye.

In a circular sent from the Chancery, dated June 10, 2024, the news of the demise of Pa. Olowoyeye @ 89 years was announced. A news all received with complete trust and gratitude to God for a life well lived.

The funeral rites took place at St. Ignatius, Loyola, Old-Ife Road on the 24-25, July 2024. Fr. Darlington Agubosim, who gave the homily unequivocally reminded the people of God of the inevitability of death.

It is a reality we cannot shy away from, it will come when it will come. What is however important is that we make ourselves prepared so that whenever it comes, it will not be a shock but a loving friend.

He commiserated with the family on the passing away of their father and beckoned on them to be of good faith and trust in the abiding presence of God who is always with us till the end of time.

“Death is the gateway to a peaceful life with God. What makes death sweet is knowing where we are going....” Fulton Sheen. At times when we celebrate funeral, it is an opportunity to think about our end.

What will be my lot? The gospel reading from Mt. 25:1-13 speaks about the wise and foolish virgins. The homilist noted that our actions/choices have consequences. The deceased, says Fr. Darlington proved himself wise as He prepared for his death.

He recounted that the deceased was a very jovial man who left everyone who came in contact with him happier than they came. He was a happy man himself, full of life. He was a faithful man, a disciplinarian who trained his children in the way of the Lord.

He was a contented man who despite being a customs officer would not involve in shady dealings. He believed and trusted that what the Lord will give you, He will give you. He encouraged the family to rejoice for they have a saints praying for them in heaven. 

The homilist admonished all present to live a virtuous life and that all our choices come with consequences. We will all leave the stage a day we do not know. The way we lay our bed so shall we lay on it. There is nothing we brought to life and there is nothing we shall take from life. Build up your heaven on earth. 

To the children, He called on them to keep the legacy of their Father. Death will end everything but only our relationship with God will last forever. 

Mr. Anthony Olowoyeye, one of the children of the deceased spoke on behalf of the family, rendering their sentiments of thanks to all present. Present at the funeral were His, Grace Most Rev. Gabriel Abegunrin; Archbishop Emeritus of Ibadan, Alaba Job; His Lordship Most. Rev. Dr. Peter Odetoyinbo, Bishop of Abeokuta Diocese, a host of priests from within and outside the Diocese, family members, friends and well-wishers. 

Fr. Olowoyeye Martin, the Son of the deceased joined in thanking very specially the Bishops, priests, HCA/PMS family and all who came from the parishes He had and currently works. 

Archbishop Gabriel joined his voices in offering words of consolation to the family of the deceased. He noted how his experiences with the deceased were filled with good memories of laughter and joy. He encouraged the children not to be far from home and the Church. 

The remains of Late Pa. Martin Sunday Olowoyeye were interred at St. Cyprian Catholic Church' cemetery, Oke-Offa, Ibadan. 

The deceased was survived by wife and children. May his soul rests in peace. Amen