… Celebrated as Woman of Faith, Service and Compassion
Tributes poured in on Thursday as family members, church leaders, friends, journalists and prominent figures gathered at Methodist Church Nigeria, Oke-Ado, Ibadan, to celebrate the life and legacy of Dame Eunice Moyo Oreoluwa Kayode, described as a woman whose life was defined by faith, service to humanity and unwavering commitment to God.
Delivering the homily at the commendation service, retired Archbishop Kehinde Stephen of the Methodist Church Nigeria portrayed the late Dame Kayode, fondly known as *Mama Omotayo*, as a complete woman whose earthly journey was marked by remarkable accomplishments and selfless devotion to both God and society.
According to Archbishop Stephen, the deceased lived a life worthy of emulation and, by biblical standards, had earned her place in eternity through her works and steadfast Christian commitment.
“She served God consistently and not as a spectator. She came as a fighter of faith,” the cleric said, drawing from 2 Timothy 4:7. “She fought the good fight, finished the race and kept the faith.”
Archbishop Stephen recalled that Dame Kayode was a nurse by profession who, in 1976, established the renowned Omotayo Maternity, a health institution dedicated to maternal and child healthcare. The clinic subsequently earned national and international recognition, becoming a symbol of compassionate healthcare delivery and elevating her reputation as a woman who devoted her life to the service of God and humanity.
He urged mourners to celebrate rather than grieve, describing her as a woman blessed with an infectious sense of humour, warmth and generosity.
“We have gathered here not to mourn but to celebrate her,” he told the congregation. “She was gifted, skilful, accommodating and deeply caring.”
The Archbishop also highlighted her personal interests, noting that she enjoyed playing the piano, listening to Christian music and taking photographs.
Beyond her contributions to healthcare and the church, Dame Kayode was remembered as a passionate sports enthusiast whose love for football spanned decades.
Archbishop Stephen recounted her lifelong affection for sports, which began during her primary school years. Reflecting on the timing of her passing, he noted what he described as a remarkable coincidence.
“She loved sports right from primary school,” he said. “What a coincidence that she passed on as the World Cup starts today in the United States of America.”
Her passion for football was particularly evident in her unwavering support for Shooting Stars Sports Club, formerly known as IICC Shooting Stars. Her dedication to the club earned her a position on its board, and she was part of the management team that celebrated the club’s triumph in the 1992 CAF competition.
Her involvement in football administration also extended to the former Nigerian Football Association, where she served on the Female Football Committee. For many years, members of Nigeria’s women’s national football team, the Super Falcons, regarded her as a mother figure as she travelled across Africa to support the team during competitions.
In recognition of her contributions to healthcare, sports and national development, Dame Kayode was honoured by the Federal Government with the prestigious national award of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR).
The one-hour commendation service attracted a large gathering of family members, church faithful, friends, journalists and captains of industry, all united in celebrating a woman whose impact transcended healthcare, sports and religious service.
Funeral activities will continue in Ilesa, Osun State, with a Service of Songs scheduled for Friday, June 12, while the funeral service will take place on Saturday, June 13, at Otapete Methodist Church. Thereafter, her remains will be laid to rest.
For many who gathered in Ibadan, Dame Eunice Moyo Oreoluwa Kayode leaves behind not only cherished memories but also a lasting legacy of faith, compassion, excellence and dedicated service to humanity.
