• The late Theresa Udombon
“…Sorrow is love bereaved. Nothing can happen which ought not to arise. God never is before His time and never is behind. Oh give thanks, a glorious exit, a glorious entry”.
By Nsikak Okon
On Saturday, November 4, 2023, a multitude of mourners, sympathizers, friends, and associates of the Bassey Udombon family of Ita Uruan community gathered to bid farewell to their beloved matriarch, Deaconess Theresa Bassey Udombon.
The solemn funeral rites, led by the Kingdom Life Church, took place at the deceased residence in Shelter Afrique Extension. Bishop (Dr) Ernest Enoidem, the minister in charge, delivered a heartfelt sermon, urging the bereaved family and attendees to trust in God and embody the virtues of a godly life, ensuring eternal peace after death.
Deaconess Theresa Udombon, aged 86, hailed from the village of Ita Uruan, in Uruan local government area of Akwa Ibom State. According to her biography read at the occasion, the late Theresa Udombon was a pillar of strength who instilled her children with invaluable life lessons and ensured they received quality education.
Her journey began at the Church of Scotland Mission (CSM) school in Mbiaya Uruan, where she obtained her First School Leaving Certificate in 1957. She later earned a Grade Two Certificate from Teachers Training College, Ididep, in the old Itu Local Government Area.
After the untimely passing of her husband, Mother Theresa embraced widowhood, and dedicated her life to teaching. She imparted knowledge and wisdom in various schools, including Saint Andrew African School, Idu Uruan, in 1959, and Holy Child School, Ifiayong Usuk, Uruan, in 1992. Her illustrious career culminated with her retirement from the State Primary Education Board (SUPEB), Akwa Ibom State, in 1994.
Described as sociable and loving, Mother Theresa actively engaged in community affairs, radiating peace wherever she went. Her son, Mr. Emmanuel Udombon, shared a poignant moment when he and his siblings were praying for their grandmother’s well-being at the exact moment she passed. It felt like a divine connection, a fellowship of love and prayer.
Bishop Akaninyene Udombon, her second son, remembered his mother’s unwavering faith in God. Even in sickness, he said his mother insisted on prayer before seeking medical intervention.
Her love was said to have extended beyond her immediate family, embracing even those who didn’t reciprocate. She was said to have had a genuine affinity for people, always ready to lend a helping hand.
Prof. Bassey Ndon, her only brother, cherished their close bond. He said they lived in close proximity, and visited each other regularly. Ndon chuckled as he mentioned how her absence had allowed weeds to overrun his farm, as she was the one tending to it with great care.
Dr. Hope Emmanuel Udombon, her daughter-in-law, paid tribute to Mother Theresa’s unwavering support, strength, and dedication to her calling from God.
The funeral service was a testament to Mother Theresa’s impact on the lives she touched. Clergymen, businessmen and women, and guests came together to honor her memory.
Prayers were offered for her soul, accompanied by soul-stirring choir performances and a joyous celebration of her life through dance, while tributes and condolences poured in from various groups and individuals; a testament to the lasting legacy she left behind.
Few of the many officiating ministers at the ceremony included Apostle (Prof) Isaiah Issong, Archbishop Udeme Simon, Apostle Usen Ananambiet, and Prof. (Rev) Enobong Joshua, among others.
