Chinwendu Uzoatu, Awka
The remains of Dr. Raphael Udeoye Uzoezie (Nwata na-azo onwe ya) have been laid to rest in his hometown, Igbo-Ukwu, Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State.
The burial, which drew dignitaries from within and outside the state, turned into a celebration of a life well lived. A Pontifical Requiem Mass at Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church, Igbo-Ukwu, was presided over by the Catholic Bishop of Ekwulobia Diocese, His Eminence Peter Eberechukwu Cardinal Okpaleke, assisted by numerous priests.
In his homily, Cardinal Okpaleke reminded the faithful that death is a passage to eternity and “a friend that helps Christians reach their destination.” He described the late Uzoezie as a man of strong faith and commended him and his wife, Dr. Ego Uzoezie, for sponsoring the training of five Catholic priests. He urged the family to uphold their father’s legacy, assuring them of the Church’s prayers.
Parishioners from Annunciation Catholic Church, Awka, and Archbishop A.K. Obiefuna Retreat and Pastoral Centre, Okpuno, described Dr. Uzoezie as a devout Christian and man of integrity.
The Parish Priest of Annunciation Church, Rev. Fr. Ralph Agbanu, said he knew Dr. Uzoezie first as his English teacher in the seminary.
“He was gentle yet firm, a man of discipline and conviction,” he said.
He also praised Dr. Ego Uzoezie for her dedication as former Diocesan Director of the Catholic Women Organization (CWO).
Senator Victor Umeh (OFR), representing Anambra Central Senatorial District, described Dr. and Mrs. Uzoezie as a model couple whose unity and mutual support were central to their success in faith, family, and service.
“Sir Raphael was a pillar of strength and inspiration,” Umeh said, urging the family to sustain the love and unity he built.
In her tribute, Dr. Ego Uzoezie described her husband as her best friend, mentor, and lifelong companion.
Their son, Rt. Hon. Ikem Uzoezie (Ikeoha), a former member of the Anambra State House of Assembly, hailed his father as a teacher and role model who lived with humility, humour, and simplicity.
“You taught us that greatness is not measured by wealth or position but by the values one instills in others,” he said.
Another son, Sir Engr. Kelvin Uzoezie, celebrated his father’s fairness and forthrightness in a poetic tribute, while his daughter, Adauzoh Joe-Obasi, praised him for using his gifts to touch lives.
Dr. Ralph Uzoezie, 81, was remembered as a rare gem — a man of faith, wisdom, and integrity whose legacy will remain evergreen.
Among dignitaries at the ceremony were former Anambra Governor Mr. Peter Obi, HRH Igwe Alexander Ejikemeuwa Azike (Idu III of Igbo-Ukwu) and his cabinet, Senator Uche Ekwunife, Igbo-Ukwu Development Union (Awka branch), Papal Knights and Medalists, Old Awka Diocesan CWO, and Ekwulobia Diocesan Life Members, among others.
