REVISED DRAFT_FB__FUNERAL_BROCHURE

DADAVI EDITH YAWA AKUMAH

BURIAL APRIL 14, 2018, TANYIGBE ETOE

CONTENTS

A) BIOGRAPHY OF DADAVI EDITH
B) FAMILY TRIBUTES
1) Children (Doris/Denis)
2) Grandchildren
3) Niece /Nephew (Esime /Dela)
4) Tumi Debra Viwo (Ayigakorloe)
5) Daughter In Law (Cindy)
6) Son In Law (Dr. Aglobitse)
7) Brother In Law (Dr. Penni)

C) TRIBUTES
8) Adeblevi Stool Father (Mordzi Bebi)
9) Tanyigbe SHS Best Student Winners (Diana)
10) Ex‐Assemblywoman (Daavi Mawuli)
11) Foster Child (Bea Hia)
12) NgoryiFia (Rtd. Gen Anyidoho)
13) Classmate (Togbe Sunu II)
14) Maj-Gen (Rtd) Anyidoho Viwo (Akpe)
15) Ghana Registered Midwives Association
D) BURIAL SERVICE PROGRAM
E) SONGS

Dadavi – You Did Your Best

Edith Yawa Akumah
Biography

“What you leave behind is not what is
engraved in stone monuments, but what is
woven into the lives of others.”

Pericles (Greek, 495 BC – 429 BC).

BIRTH, EDUCATION Dadavi completed Standard 7 and proceeded to Accra Techni-
AND TEENAGE LIFE cal Institute where she stayed with her auntie Flora Abro (who
is in her nineties now). Edith Yawa couldn’t complete her Accra
Lady Ɖԑbu’s foster father Gbagbo had betrothed Ɖԑbu to Tech education as she got pregnant. She busied herself with
Goklui-Xԑɖé. So the Ayigakorloe Elders would not just agree Agbelikaklo trade etc, but her father Chief Dziko Abro ruled out
that Ɖԑbu got pregnant for Dziko of Adeblevi. This brought a any despair. The couple mortgaged Dziko’s coffee farm to a
great controversy, indeed a physical fight between Adeblevi and local trader of Etoe, and all the proceeds invested in Yawa to
the Ayigakorloe clans of Avonyi. get back to school. (In honour of this single act, Dziko-Ɖebu
Children in 2012 instituted the Annual Dziko-Ɖebu Education
The fact that Tsita Dzikotor decreed, that “Ɖebu’s Ayigakorloe Award for Overall Best Student at Tanyigbe SSS).
folks are very fertile family, hence Dziko mustn’t lose her”,
energized Chief KomiYawoe who himself repulsed the Ayigakor-
loe advancers mercilessly when they came with the plan to
whisk the pregnant Ɖԑbu back to Avonyi. Uneasy calm
prevailed, however, and Ɖԑbu later gave birth to Yawa on March
20, 1941. Seven other siblings were born after her.

Little Yawa followed her seniors Fianko-Kofi and Fianko-Bebi to
the Etoe Schools. When Zion got rooted at Etoe, her father
Dziko got all three baptized, christening them Enos, Erica and
Edith. As a youth she recalled her bellicose nature during
Fiaga Togbe Adasitor funeral in 1955, the Asongfos entered
Adeblevi-Chief Dziko Abro’s compound and slaughtered her
ram. 14-year-old Yawa violently attacked Asongfowo Amevor
Tsetse, TefeKorsi (who were all armed) all the way from Adeble-
vi till Anyigbe where she finally got the slaughtered ram back,
No joke!!

Rest In Peace; Dadavi Edith Yawa Akumah 02

CAREER PATH AND SERVICE Parents
Grandparents
Dadavi proceeded to NTC, Akyem Oda, qualifying as a Commu-
nity Health Nurse where she was posted to Agotime Kpetoe.
Her popularity soared with her love for the community,
everyone else calling her “Daavi Gbigã”.

Dadavi was only 25 but typical of her Mom Ɖԑbu, she came
back to Tanyigbe and packed Tanyigbe school-Leavers to try
their luck at her new place. Efo Anto Leo, Late Florence
Kpatey, Late Comfort Dzandu were later joined by Hiadzi
Charity, Ex-Assemblywoman Gladys Kpodo, late Yaw Prempeh
as the starters.

At Kpetoe, Dadavi won the Adaklu Anyigbe Local Council
Preventive Health Education Award, which she again won when
at Kpedze, by the Dzolokpuita Council. Wherever Dadavi
served, you can be sure to see Tanyigbe School-Leav-
ers/Youths “imported” to hustle at her location. Dadavi loved
reading! The Kpetoe home was a library. Drum Publications
“Film, featuring the Spearman, Fearless Fang”, “Boom”, etc she
subscribed weekly, fifty years ago. EK Mickson’s books “When
The Heart Decides”, ”Who Killed Lucy”, “Woman Is Poison” all
lined the library plus Ewe Books such as “Togbui Kpeglo” she
always bought, which raised the reading standards of all who
lived with her.

Since there were very few ladies pursuing the nursing career in
the neighbourhood, Dadavi was affectionately called “Dokitan-
yornuo” by the folks wherever she served. Her visit to Tanyigbe
when on leave would draw people from surrounding towns who
would like to consult the “Dokitanyornuo”. Later she was
transferred to Tema Comm 2 (BBC) and after some years,
Dadavi proceeded further to Kumasi Midwifery College, from
where she was posted to Doffor Podoe to open the new Clinic
and later, to Ashaiman. At Ashaiman the Rulers of Tanyigbe
prevailed upon Dadavi to consider coming back home to help
establish the Tanyigbe health Post. A patriot as she was,
Dadavi accepted the call and returned home, opening the
“Clinic” in a near-completed building offered to the people of
Tanyigbe by Late KK Dra. The Clinic did not progress easily but
it finally firmed itself and became the pioneer health institution
along the Ho-Palime main Road.

When along the way, her own Maternity Home that Dadavi tried
setting up did not survive, she was reabsorbed into the Ghana
Health Service and posted to Ada, where she served till her
retirement in 2001.

Rest In Peace; Dadavi Edith Yawa Akumah 03

FAMILY / SOCIAL In the Adԑblekodzóe ‘Kuma Family Dadavi was the rock and the
AND TRADITIONAL ROLES: lion. Noone dared encroaching on the Family legacies, regard-
less of who you are. Despite her inability to walk around, she
Dadavi got married to her Middle School classmate Daniel still adopted children, but which resulted in a field day with the
Kormivi Gbortsu and the couple gave birth to Doris, Dickson hard disciplinary standards. Last “daughter” sadly got pregnant
(the late) and Dennis. Their first-born Doris Abra is now Dr. Mrs at 16 in 2017, while Epé made it to SSS. Now, their Mom is
Aglobitse of the UNFPA who was also recently enstooled gone.
Mama Hokor of Dzafe-Ho. Dick passed away just after graduat- In her later years, being someone with the known ailments as
ing from Accra College of Education, whilst “last-baby” Dennis listed, Dadavi’s health condition was well monitored and
plies his trade in the Gulf. Coincidentally, Denis said he had managed, thanks to the Medical folks surrounding the family.
communion with his Mum only on Jan 18. It is necessary to note 1st Aid abound with her in quantities, but on Sunday January
that the “Health Service” that Dadavi piloted radiated in Dziko 28, when all was gone to Church, when there was no one to
Abro’s home. Her siblings and daughter all married Doctors and call, it happened. DEATH has no respect
Nurses! Dadavi’s grandchild indeed is also a Europe-qualified
Doctor; another a Pharmacist. Following the breakdown of this Billy Sunday (American - Clergyman 1862 - 1935) said
marriage, she tried another union with Fred Attoh, but that also
was shortlived. “Live so that when the final summon
comes you will leave something more
At Adeblevi, Dadavi was assigned by the Elders as Regent for behind you than an epitaph on a tombstone
Aunt NyornuFia Abrodzuia Adeblefala II who was ageing. She or an obituary in a newspaper”
did this, teaming up with Nana Danku and Mamaga Cate till her
own health could not support walking to Tanyigbe Chiefs’ Dadavi, you did your best.
Meetings at Anyigbe, hence that role was transferred to her REST IN PEACE.
Sister, the late Benedicta Afua. Dadavi was endowed with
handicraft/art talents and beautifully barbered both boys and
girls. Her knitting skills remain unchallenged. She applied
these skills in Undertakers’ role (Amesása) to supplement her
income during her retirement.
At the Etoe Zion Church, Dadavi sang for the Hadziha in her
prime time in late 1950s/early 1960s and on retirement, was
elected and served as the Church’s Secretary.
In Etoe Community, the call was always on Dadavi whenever
advanced pregnancies were having complications. Having
developed Hypertension and also Diabetes, and being
overweight, her health tended to cloud her great support and
rather keen involvement in Etoe Football Team and also the
Akayԑ Group “Ayeeaye” yet she did not relent, but don’t forget,
she was the most vocal. Dadavi’s greatest role traditionally,
she used to proudly say, was the Rulers of Tanyigbe electing
her, a 25year-old girl in 1966 as a member of the Committee
(serving under Etoe-Fia Shiagbor Anto) that planned the
homecoming of the late Fiaga Kwasi Adiko from exile.

Rest In Peace; Dadavi Edith Yawa Akumah 04

FROM THE CHILDREN – ABRA dress properly as a Queen. Had I my will Daavi.

Had I my will, Daavi If I had my will, I would argue with you more than a thousand
times over. I would eavesdrop and hear as you tell others, “She
If I had my will, I would allow you to give birth to me a thousand is just like me though”. “No I am not like you”, I would blurt,
times in the world of the unknown so you would be calling me forgetting I was snooping. But no matter how many times I
mommy and I would be calling you Daavi. Had I my will Daavi. denied it, the fact remains that I have all your attributes. If I
could, I will plead with death to give you a little bit of time for me
If I had my will, I would re-wind our conversation on Friday 26 to enjoy you fully, and admit to you that I am really just like you.
January 2018. You did not tell me you would be leaving me in Had I my will Daavi. If I had my will, I would ask that you come
the dark. You did not finish telling me the plans you had about back to me because whenever I was angry after someone got
organizing a party for Akpe and Doris since you were not at on my nerves, you would comfort and humour me by asking,
their graduation. You asked me to explain to you what First “Who made her angry? Don’t they know that she is the daughter
Class meant and when I did, you said, “You see why I am proud of Edith Yawa Akuma?”… As if you had the power to beat them
of my grandchildren?” You asked for your 2018 diary because all up on my behalf. Then you would go on to give me all the
it had become a norm that you get one on yearly basis. Did I latest gist from the village. “Have you heard this? Have you
bring it to you? No. Not yet. So Daavi, please wake up. Get up heard that”, now I know it was your way of calming me. So If I
because I have brought your diary. I know you like documenting had my will, I would shed all the tears I could, so death would
everything and you taught me to do same. Please forgive me if sympathize with me and leave you with me. I would call you out
I delayed. Your memory is the diary that I will carry with me for doing something wrong and you would become very angry
everyday and always. Daavi I am hurting please, say with me, so I would have to call Worfa Enos Adiko or Fo Amoa
something for me to know you are still around me. If I had my Yao and ask them to apologise on my behalf. But here I stand
will I would bring you back for one more day so we could finish speechless, with heavy eyelids. Had I my will Daavi.
our conversation and I could give you your diary. Had I my will
Daavi.

If I had my will, I would start all over; giving birth to your
grandchildren so you would come over and nurse me like a
baby. To confess, I really enjoyed the pampering. I flash back to
King’s birth and how you prayed and wanted him to come on
your birthday, but he came a day earlier. If I had my will, Daavi,
I would bring you back to stay with the children while I travel. I
would rewind time to the 9/11 disaster when I was in the US,
and you displayed some drama because you were worried
about my well-being. You would turn the rules I instituted in the
house up-side-down just like you did anytime you visited. I
would hold you tight so you do not leave me. Had I my will
Daavi.

If I had my will, I would ask for one more thing; that I am exempt-
ed from this horrific trance and accept the reality. So I could
start practicing your dressing skills which you tried inculcating
in me. So I could dress the children as Queens and Kings as
you often did for your grandchildren, and also with me when I
was young. In fact, even in my adulthood, you still taught me
how to dress and my most recent memory is last September
when you left Etoe to come to Dzafe just to teach me how to

Rest In Peace; Dadavi Edith Yawa Akumah 05

If I had my will, I would reverse life’s nature, which is a brief one, so FROM SON, DENNIS
you could live eternally and keep requesting that Mark and I bring you
old newspapers. Then when they were brought, you would read them Oh Death, you are so wicked!!!
and call me, “Mommy, have you heard this and have you heard that?”
(Forgetting they were old newspapers). Then I would ask, “Where You have hit us in a cold blood again. Dadavi as we all used to
you did you hear it from? Daavi”, and you will answer, “I read it in the call you, on that fateful day, before your shocking news, my
papers”, as if it were recent news. I will respond, “Ohh Daavi, this is Daily Scripture prior to my duties was Psalm 18:1-6.
old news o.” And you will insist, “But you did not know so I am now
telling you”. Had I my will Daavi. As a mom of young children I'm sometimes susceptible to
panic. My first reaction is to call you on that fateful morning and
If I had my will, I would come over to you as I read this homage and I asked if you were okay, and I again asked you what I needed
I would ask you: “Daavi, are you really dead?” No you are not. I know to do about my body pains that made me come home for
you are not because you were always awake even when I called in the treatment. There you answered me “Dennis, your unwellness is
wee hours of the night in fear of death, and would say “Mommy, I will really a worry to me but with God I know you will be healed. You
not close my eyes lest I die and leave you alone.” So what happened? again encouraged me by saying 'David was in a great danger.
Why did you close your eyes this time? Afraid, close to death, and in anguish, he called on the Lord”.
Had I my will Daavi, if I had my will, I would walk straight up to
heaven’s gate and bring you home before you disappear behind the Well I got relief from your Godly advise then I said to you mom
pearly gates. I would use my tears to build the stairway, and my I will call you again after close of work for us to continue. In the
memories, a lane for the journey. evening, I got back from work and then decided to call my uncle
for us to discuss some issues, and thereafter he placed a confer-
They say where there is a will there is a way. I have my will, but my ence call between the three of us to talk and with a shock to us
dear mom this time, I have no way your death was announced to us in a very painful way. Da’vi,
am short of words! This is not the way you have to leave us in
Daavi, my generous and gorgeous mother. the middle of nowhere. I was with you at Tanyigbe on the 19th
You will forever be alive to me. This I know. January before my departure on the 20th as you requested;
Daavi, Yahweh has you in His keeping but I have you in my heart. which was not the actual plan between the two of us but you
insisted I should come over for you to say your last prayer on
To my great Mom, with Love. me before my departure, on that same day our Zion church
Pastor and a few members of the church paid you a surprise
visit to give you Holy Communion which you insisted I should
also receive and I did. How would I know it was a good-bye
sign you were showing to me. We had a long conversation till
late in the evening yet you still didn't want me to go. I then said
to you “Da’vi why are you acting so strangely”? I need to get
back and organise myself before my flight. You then held my
two hands and prayed with me before I left. When I was at the
Airport the next day at the boarding gate I remember you called
me for the second time and said to me, you just wanted to say
'goodbye and safe journey', thereafter I replied “Da’vi stay
blessed, and God be with you all”.

Daavi you and Papadan never let me lack anything. You were a
mother of all, you are indeed my hero. But God's ways we
humans can't challenge it. Since you decided to leave us at the
middle of nowhere, now you are no longer with us, and your
secret recipe is gone with you, we will miss you and it's sad to
lose your recipe. It would be far more tragic if we were to fail to
preserve the legacy of your faith entrusted to us.

Daavi! It is well with my soul.
R.I. P Daavi. We will all miss you dearly.

Rest In Peace; Dadavi Edith Yawa Akumah 06

GRANDCHILDREN - 1 who cared for them more than she cared for herself.
Who else is going to tell us bedtime stories? Stories about
The Story of Our Daavi thieves, the history of Tanyigbe and the power of dogs to see
ghosts. Who else is going to do our homework or write our
Have you recently read a storybook? Or watched a movie? You punishments for us while we sleep from fatigue in the night?
remember the way the old granny treated and cared for her Who will be awake to reassure us that all is well when one of
grandchildren? We saw it too. We remember it too. Except this us wakes up with nightmares in the middle of the night?
was no storybook or movie. This was our Dadavi. On such nights you were always there. It was almost as if you
Of all tributes written for our grandparents, this has been the were afraid to blink or go to bed, in fear of not seeing us again.
hardest we’ve ever had to write. Our hearts and minds are filled But alas! We blinked on the night of 27th January and woke up
with memories, memories that even if given the whole day, we to hear that we would not see you again.
could not exhaust.... You were always there, Daavi. Every time we visited Tanyigbe,
A parent more than a grandparent. You were one of the first we came straight to Etoe to see you. First Papa Dan left us.
faces who welcomed all of us into the world. You were always Now who will we be coming to see? This void will be a hard one
there. You cared for us, bathed us, nurtured us, and pampered to fill…
us beyond measure. You used to hide us anytime our parents Dadavi, we are here o, but we have not eaten; please come
wanted to punish us for doing something wrong. Meanwhile, and give us food to fatten us. Kafui is here; she is coming to
you fasted, refusing to eat, whiles crying, to prevent any evil test your blood sugar level; tell her of all the sicknesses and the
from coming to us. villagers worrying you. King Solomon is here; tell him he is
A best friend to all of us. You never missed a birthday or any growing fat but you are happy; laugh at his beard and tell him
milestone in any of our lives, even when distance separated us. to shave it. Doreen is here; tell her to learn hard, focus on her
You banned anyone from calling you “Mama” because you were studies and profession; tell her not to mind the young boys.
“Under 17”. We would shout, “Bottom high!” and you respond, Konadu is here; tell her that she is your Miss Ghana and that
“Bottom low!” she’ll be a talkative lawyer. Fafa is here; tell her that she is the
You were not rich and did not own the world, but we were never fairest of them all and she inherited your heart of gold. Ama
hungry nor naked when left with you. You were more than Ghana is here; tell her how she is stubborn and strong like her
willing to spend your little earnings on buying us clothes, toys father; tell her that she’s a Princess so no one should shout on
and sweets. her. Even little Elorm is here; get up and tell her one of your
Your heart of gold was what taught Kafui to fight bravely and favourite stories.
tenaciously not only to save lives but also for the ones she Please get up. Tell us one last story before you go. A story
loves. It was what encouraged King every day of his life that he about a brave grandmother who sacrificed so much to see her
was unique and loved and he could achieve anything he grandchildren become successful.
wanted to. It was what took Doris in without batting an eyelid, Or let us tell you a story. A story about 7 grandchildren who will
right from birth and even when her father, your first son passed miss their grandmother for many years to come… when we
on to the next life, so you could mould her into the woman she graduate from school, when we get our first salaries, when we
is today. It was what rushed to save Akpene’s life from the cold get married, when we have your great-grandchildren…
clutches of death when she was just a baby. It was what Dadavi, mamayoviwouo lԑ fi… tso ne mi bor story la na wԑ…
pushed Emefa to academic excellence to put a smile on your This story has not yet ended… safe journey Daavi… Till we
face and that of her parents. And it is how Eyram and Elorm wil meet again…Greet Papa Dan for us… May God keep you
remember you: always warm, so sweet and kind, and someone under His arm.

Rest In Peace; Dadavi Edith Yawa Akumah 07

GRANDCHILDREN - II the night before what time to come pick the band key of food for
Daddy. This vacuum will remain empty forever as no one can
Tribute to Dadavi. A loving grandmother take it up. A job only you can do well.
My kente expert, beads specialist, morale booster, my slow but
‘When my strength and wisdom fail me, sure grandma, where are you?
remind me Lord, that you are always Kafui’s wedding will not be perf ct without you? Who will inspect
closest’......anonymous Kafui’s beads and Kente!???
Who will take your place? Who can do only what you do best?
Daavi,it is with the saddest heart that we write this tribute in God be with you Dadavi, Rest well, Fly high and Journey on!
your memory. You have been a wonderful grandma to all of us We will never forget you, never ever !
and this can’t be replaced. We play back memories of you,
when we were very young and lived in Dzodze. Yours was food Maud:
for the children. When we come to Tanyigbe, Mummy will leave I am lost of words but my engagement kept flashing back and
us with you so we can play and eat. You fed us so well that we giving me sweet memories. Memories of the little girls dressed
never wanted to leave. in the traditional way with me as a queen. The beads all over.
We shall keep those photos with the beads for the generations
We recalled our marriages. First Tatyana, on that day, your joy to at least have an imaginary view of their grand mother.
knew no bounds.
Daavi, we say may father Abraham receive you in His bosom!
Tanty: We dedicate every yam festival from now on to your memory !
You wore me the best beads and Kente, and decorated Kafui we love you Daavi, thanks for everything !
and Akpene as my sisters right by my side. Even though you Hede nyuie amoonor!!!!
could hardly stand, you danced borborbor for me just to show
how happy you were for me. I am forever grateful. Again I recall
your excitement when I had a Son, four years ago. In your
words, you said;’ God is indeed alive’.
These are moments I will never trade for gold. You loved us all
equally, protected us all anyhow you can.

Daavi,what I will miss most about you is your cooking. Who will
cook for Daddy early in the mornings? You and I always plans

Rest In Peace; Dadavi Edith Yawa Akumah 08

TO AN AUNTIE, MOTHER them from you from abrokyire. Literally rubbing it in their faces
AND GRANDMOTHER - DAAVI of how proud you were to have siblings, children and family
(BOTTOM HIGH) living abroad. Poking jokes at them by saying (in Ewe) 'As for
my family, how brainy we can be, that's is why we travel back
Life... and forth and that's why people tend to envy so much’ with
funny facial gestures.
It's taken me three days to fully process the sad truth... even as “Da’avi, have you eaten and taken your meds”? “Esime, get
I sit on my bed at 1:19am on this Thursday morning... so many away from me! When did you even graduate from medical
questions and thoughts run through my mind. school that I didn't know? You standing over there asking
Da’avi as everyone affectionately called you, irrespective of questions like the way your father does, have you eaten before
their relation and age... coming to disturb me about eating, taking my medication and
how fizzy drinks only makes diabetes worse”? We'll end up
You were one beautiful tough soul. A woman of so much laughing and talking about some traditional meds someone told
strength and power. My moments with you may have been brief you about and those that abrokyire-torwo (referring to Nordeku
but enough to last forever. Growing up with you in Ada... guiding and Papa) sent to you.
me in writing letters to Papa, early morning cleaning, school,
Nigerian movies, Ludo and snake & ladder games, weekend Da’avi, I know you tried in your own ways to unify us. I know you
kenkey and Tefufu, ensuring we had more than enough to eat had sincere thoughts for us and loved us very much. Your
till our bellies couldn't take anymore which made us wet our approach in doing this may have been a bit firm, old fashioned
beds sometimes, our late night stories... and may have stepped on some toes which brought about
some disagreements but hey, this is family and that's what
In recent years, you were the only reason I'll accept to go to family is all about. Full of equally strong-willed people... it's in
Tanyigbe because there was always something exciting to look our genes I guess. Now it really doesn't matter anymore...
forward to... how you'll encourage us to come for Tedufe and
take part in Azaa and other cultural events happening. You I know that you're gone, it's hard to accept, but now I've
were so passionate about culture and told me stories of how understood. Nothing lasts forever, even if it's good or bad. Now
your mum (Debu) and Papa Dziko actively participated in you're up in heaven, in that I take solace. At this time you're
cultural events in Tanyigbe... You'll want to dress us up or robe standing at those big golden gates up in heaven where your
us in traditional beads each time we came to Tanyigbe. new life awaits. I know you're looking down on us wanting us to
be strong, and I know you have been all along.
My last moments with you on my last visit to Tanyigbe, you I'll miss you when I think of all the times we had with you. For
displayed the gifts I got for you in the hall for everyone to see... now you've gone up high in the sky because this is your time to
telling anyone who came in and admired them that Esime got say goodbye .You don’t need to fight anymore just let go and let
God. While you were here on earth you did your job. You did
your part to keep family together, that’s why you will remain in
our hearts always and forever.

Da’avi, you were not only an auntie but also the grandmother
that I never really had.

Forever in our hearts. Rest well, Rest in Peace

Love, Esime

Rest In Peace; Dadavi Edith Yawa Akumah 09

DELA JULIAN PENNI TRIBUTE TO DADAVI ALIAS BOTTOM HIGH

Dadavi was the one person that connected all of us children
when we were growing up. My older sister Selorm would also
agree that she instilled life values and lessons into us. I learned
how important a strong work ethic is and how remaining positive
and determination can help us get through life’s biggest
challenges.

As an adult with children of my own, I recognised and appreci-
ate how she sacrificed and dedicated her own time to care for
us in the absence of our parents. She fulfilled both the position
of mother and a father figure.

Dadavi was all about people and most importantly, children.
Even though she often had her hands full with the children, she
was always willing to help others with their children or any other
task they may have needed assistance with.

She was kind hearted and as tough as a rock. A very popular
lady who helped in any way she could. She had a powerful
presence and more than capable of standing up for herself
among a society of ruling men.

I can say that I am so blessed and lucky to have been able to
spend my younger years with Dadavi. She did so much for me
as a child and for the rest of my family.

I will cherish all of the great memories I had and will carry her
values with me. She had so many wonderful qualities and I
hope that everyone who knew her will remember how special
she was. How I wish I had the chance to visit Ghana more
frequently to share sober moments with her in her pension, to
show her my own kids. Now, that moment is sadly gone!

You will be missed by all and your memory will live in us all
forever.

Rest In Peace; Dadavi Edith Yawa Akumah 10

TRIBUTE FROM
DAUGHTER IN LAW

One of the finest women I have ever met is my mother in- law, Daavi, as we fondly called
her. You were great woman everyone would like to have as a mother. You love your
children so dearly and you extended that motherly love to us your-in-laws. You told me that
it was your onus as a mother to frequently check on us and you judiciously did it till your
last breath.

Daavi, your generosity knew no bounds. Your generous nature was not limited to your
family alone. You extended to anyone that came your way regardless of the time. Your
home was a sanctuary for the needy: you fed the hungry, cloth the naked, comfort the
dishearted, and provided for the destitute. Your home was never vacant. People were
always around you because of your kind-hearted nature. This is one important value I
learnt from you and I have inculcated it in my children we have lost an important treasure
in the family.

God does not make mistakes and no one can question him because He is called unques-
tionable God. For this purpose, I take comfort in Einstein Albert's quote "And yet we
should not grieve for those who have gone from us in the primes of their lives after happy
and fruitful years of activity, and who have been privileged to accomplish in full measure
of their task in life".

It is my prayer that you are ushered through the pearly gates into that bright celestial city
where there is no more sorrow, nor pain, nor sin nor death.

Daavi, I will miss you greatly.

Rest In Peace; Dadavi Edith Yawa Akumah 11







Rest In Peace; Dadavi Edith Yawa Akumah 15

TO DAVI EDITH YAWA AKUMAH death as a result among other things she also died and will
FROM THE TUMI DEBRAH FAMILY be buried next month.

It has been said that "those who strive do not live to enjoy the As we go through this, the emotions of bidding farewell to
fruits of their labour". Sadly this has been the case of our you may the good Lord fill the void that you are leaving in
beloved Davi Edith Yawa Akumah who we affectionately called our hearts with his comforting touch.
Davi Yawa. May you rest in everlasting peace in God's presence in the
What shall we say at this critical moment of live as a family, mansion He has promised us all.
would it be possible for us to question God for the death of our
beloved Davi Yawa ! No no no ! He knows better. Hede nyuie eye nadzudzor le nutifafame.
Davi was a pleasant , strong willed and determined person , full
of energy and very independent. Due to her dedication to duty,
tenacity of purpose and her strong willed nature she always
tried to achieve whatever she set her mind and heart to do.

Davi Yawa you were a true family builder and unifier. You filled
the vacuum created by the death of your grandmother Atatsu
Korsibe alias Akufe alias Naa Debunor. You always asked did
you eat? The second statement to flow was ' l would send one
of these little ones to you soon. Yes Davi definitely would send
a delicious meal to you in no time even more than you can eat.
That made most of us who are on special diets comfortable
when it becomes necessary to visit home. As for pieces of
advice and family history she was always ready to deliver.

To us, you were three (3) very intimate sisters Debrah Adzuavi
Flora, Gbagbo Adzoyo Christine and you Davi Yawa all brought
up together in Togbe Gbagbo's house. To prove this when your
untimely death was pronounced, your nephew PK. Gbagbo said
the other two (2) sisters left behind were also to follow suit. Yes
Flora could not withstand the pains and grieves of your

Rest In Peace; Dadavi Edith Yawa Akumah 16

TRIBUTE FROM SON IN-LAW Visits to my mother in-law anytime, were incomplete without the
serving of food. She made sure our stomachs were taken care
I met Daavi (Dadavi) for the first time in February 1986, soon of very well even if she was not in the kitchen herself. She was
after training as a Doctor outside the country, whilst on my way very receptive and would offer us fresh food produce to take
to Atikpui to look for my “lost” secondary school friend. I was in home with us whenever we visited her. She would buy gifts for
the company of her daughter (now my better half), whom I had all her grandchildren, which we were required to take to them if
met earlier. Daavi came across as a very nice and receptive they had been unable to come and visit her themselves.
person, even though I was later told that she usually tolerated Daavi became diabetic somewhere in the early 2000’s when
no prospective husbands of her daughter. We soon became she reported passing lots of urine at night, and consequently
good friends who could sit and chat on so many common developed some blisters on her right leg. She could not believe
topics. She always offered food and drinks anytime I visited her. it when she was told about her condition and was medically
Thenceforth, we flowed along very well. advised to stay off a lot of foods including sugar and alcohol.
Right from our engagement and marriage ceremonies, she Her siblings and children attempted educating her on her new
always showed much love to all my relatives, anytime both lifestyle. She finally accepted it and began to observe all
families came together; our families enjoyed her hospitality. I do advice. Human nature being such that one cannot adhere to
reminisce how Daavi put cultural content into my wedding day, lifestyle changes for long, Daavi soon relaxed her strict dietary
bringing along the Tanyigbe Etoe Ayeeaye Akayԑ group to and lifestyle regimens and suffered a few hypoglycaemic
perform. Accompanying Daavi was also the late Paramount episodes as a consequence. She learnt her lesson and started
Chief of Tanyigbe, Toge Kwasi Adiko V to adhere to medical advice once more. However, her
During every pregnancy of her only daughter, Daavi very often movements were restricted because of her arthritic knees and
came to stay with us until the birth. She would always sleep with she struggled to keep to her weight control activities.
her grandchildren, telling them many folklore and showering Daavi had been relatively stable since the last quarter of last
gifts on them always. She always stuck strongly to her opinions year. She complained of severe debilitating chest pains in the
during discussions and often argued so forcefully that, she was morning of Sunday, 28th January 2018. I was called later in the
commonly construed to be a strong and difficult person. day to be informed that she had been rushed to hospital only to
Daavi was a hardworking midwife during her active days. We be declared dead on arrival.
visited her regularly at Ashaiman Health Centre and later Ada I have lost not only a mother, but a good friend and confidant.
Health Centre where she worked till her retirement. She would May her soul rest in happiness in the bosom of the Lord.
take us round the facilities and introduce us with pride to her AMEN!!!
colleagues and even the doctors she worked with. After retiring
from Government service, she continued to put her skills at the
disposal of the local folks, helping in childbirth and other
treatments required of any experienced health worker.

Rest In Peace; Dadavi Edith Yawa Akumah 17

Brother In-Law Dr Nack Penni’s Tribute, Consultant ENT Surgeon; UK

Daavi Edith was a remarkable woman and I have known her Daavi Edith is a well-travelled and connected professional lady.
longer than the sister. It was about 1963 Easter that she It saddens me that the timing of the funeral does not make it
organised a netball match at the Middle School campus possible for me to be in Ghana to attend and at least show my
between Tanyigbe Girls residing at home and those from final respect to a remarkable woman.
outside Tanyigbe. I was a spectator with my good friend Tita
Kodjoe (Vincent Akumah). Two ladies stood out on the court; I wish God’s comfort for us all. Daavi Edith, I can only say
one a little lady, Tinevi who could not stop scoring and the other “Thank You”.
a much bigger lady with a noticeable behind who would not
allow any goals in. KOMI PENNI.
Kodjo bragged to me later that the bigger lady was her sister
but that she had a younger sister who was a Cinderella. His
description of the younger sister was not lost to me and I remem-
bered it when in the 1970s I was asked to take Tusa Kosia to
Tema to stay with Daavi Edith as a house-help. There the
Cinderella description of Kodjo came back when I saw a red
faced girl in the house. Without even knowing it, she was the
Cupid who found me a wife.

When our first born was born Daavi Edith offered to look after
the baby because according to Daavi, her sister Aku and I
weren’t fully settled yet. Later I left Ghana for Ireland for further
studies; and my wife Aku soon had to follow. Daavi Edith again
came to our rescue by responsibly nurturing our two infants for
the five years we were away. The then infants are now Barrister
at Law and Licensed Architect.

Indeed there were times when I wondered whether Daavi Edith
was my mother, my sister in-law or my mother in-law or, should
I say, even my wife. At my mother`s funeral she actually came
to stay a couple of days in Atidze. Whenever I visited home, she
would send me cooked food, sometimes twice a day. At last
year`s Yam Festival, she bought my yams for me and at the
recent funeral of our sister in-law, Daavi Edith would send us
breakfast from Adeblevi every morning, other cooked food for
any visitors I might be having, as well as a quantity of palm
wine. She had done more than could be expected from a
sister-in-law.

Yes, I remember her as the original Nurse who would deliver
the well-intentioned health education lecture at Easter (picnic)
in the good old days, when nurses were real nurses.
When in her later years we realized that she became
housebound, Aku bought a lot of relevant gadgets which we
started shipping home to help her with independent move
around and living. Unfortunately the goods got home only after
our departure resulting in her not able to use them. Some of the
gadgets are still here in the UK, yet to be shipped to Ghana.

Rest In Peace; Dadavi Edith Yawa Akumah 18

ADEBLEVI STOOL FATHER (Mordzi Bebi) TO EDITH YAWA AKUMAH

Enye dzikpekpe gã, vevesese geɖee kple hûɖeɖe be mele
ameɖoɖanya siawo ŋlɔm na ameyinugbe si mikatã mieyɔna be
Daavi Yawa.

Esi wodzim menɔ sue hafi fofonye ku ta la, nɔnyetsitsiawo
vakplɔm yi wo ɖokuiwo gbɔ le Dzaƒe. Esia wɔe be miaƒe
tɔgbevi me nya aɖewo nɔ ɣaɣla ɖem ɣeyiɣi didi aɖe.

Masɔmasɔ aɖewo vadze tɔgbevia me ɖe nyaɣlaɖ'ame siwo ŋuti
me ƒonu le la ta, eye wòva ɖe nye kple Daavi Yawa ƒe nuɖeka-
nyenye ɖe go. Ewɔe be, tso esime metrɔ va aƒe kelilitɔe tso
Kpalime la nye me ga ɖea afɔ le eŋu o. Étsɔ le tɔgbevi la me ƒe
anyinɔnɔ le ɖoɖo nu me vevie eye wò zina ɖe nyateƒea dzi le
ɣeawo katã ɣi.
Mede megbe le ŋunye le nyaléɖonyateƒe ƒe afɔ siwo meɖea ŋu
kuraa o, eye esiata mexɔe se be makpɔ ta na afɔɖeɖeawo
kpuie ɖe eya kple nye didiwo nu.
Ɣeyiɣi aɖe woe enye esi vayi la, nye lãme mega teŋu ɖe mɔ
nam mevakpɔ nɛ ɖa o, togbɔ be miesea mianɔewo ŋkɔ
enuenu. Nutsotso siwo ɖo gbɔnye la meɖo dɔlénya bubu aɖeke
ɖo ɖem o, ke boŋ eƒe kukpata koe va tum.
Ei, aleae xexeame kpe enye esia?

Daavi Yawa, Mawugã ŋutɔ nakplɔ wò naɖo eƒe akɔnu.
Hede nyuie!!

DZIKO AND DEBU EDUCATION AWARD
WINNERS, TANYIGBE SHS – Diana Amable

“No one actually dies until the ripples they cause in the world die away”.
Terry Pratchett

Even if all trees were pens and the vast lands writing pads, we, the award winners
of Dziko and Debu EDUCATION Awards scheme cannot fully express our gratitude
to you. Your humanitarian acts have given birth to the success of many. You gave us
the true definition of success. Yes, success to you is not all about living a luxurious
life, rather, it is about helping others achieve their goals in life. Meeting you to show
our love and appreciation had been our dream, little did we know that monster was
lying in ambush to snatch you away from us.
In the Hopelessness of the hopeless, you were there to give them hope.
In the sadness of the helpless, you were there to give help.
In the agony of the needy, you were there to give meaning to their lives.
Your eternal journey to yonder is certainly glorious.
Indeed, until the ripples you have caused in our lives die away, we say you are not
dead.
It is said that when someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a
treasure. Your memory shall forever remain a precious treasure in our hearts until
we meet again.
Rest in perfect peace.

Rest EIndiPtheaYacew;aDAakduamvaihEBdiiotghraYpahwya Akumah 179

FROM FORMER ASSEMBLY WOMAN;
TOKOKOE / TANYIGBE ELECTORAL AREA, (Gladys Mawuli Kpodo)

And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes and there shall In 2006, when I showed interest in the District Assembly
be no more death, neither sorrow nor crying neither shall there Elections, she supported me strongly. She was always in the car
be any more pain for the former things have passed away/ Rev. with me on my campaign trails in the Tokokoe-Tanyigbe Elector-
21:4 al race which I went on to win, and to serve my people.

Alas! A great tree has fallen, our hope and expectations dashed Any time I was at home, I made sure I visited her before going
but our consolation is that the giver of all things will replenish us back to Accra.
and fortify us in turbulent times such as this. The vacuum created by your departure cannot be filled but I can
only say, “Daavi Akpe Na Wò”!
Daavi as we affectionately call her was the brain behind my
success in life. Daavi was frank, caring and loving and a humani- Daavi, Dzudzor, Dzudzor,
tarian. Dzudzor, le nutifafa me
Miaga kpe.
As an elder sister she tried to solve other people’s problems as
well.
I had completed my Middle School education in 1967 and was
thinking of the way forward when she took me, Mr Antor Leo,
Madam Charity Hiadzi, Madam Comfort Dzandu of blessed
memory to Agortime Kpetoe to work while she was a nurse
there. Through her encouragement I was able to build up small
capital and through that I wrote the Teachers Training entrance
exam, passed and left for the Training College. After completion
I taught for some years and she advised me to further my
education. I took the advice and went for my Diploma; and later
Degree courses in Winneba University.

Foster Child (Beatrice Hia, Retired Nurse)

For me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. Philippians 1: 22

Da’avi as most of us respectfully called you, I wish the news of your demise was a bad
dream which would be over once the dreamer woke up. But it is never to be, seeing your
mortals lying in front of us now, proving the bitter reality to me after all.

You accepted and fostered me at a crucial period in my life, thus going through my
education and training for my nursing course, at Tema General Hospital, incidentally in
same career field of yours.
You were that kind and selfless with no discrimination of any sort that made anyone
around thought I was a younger sister, daughter or a blood relation to you.
From you, I learnt and know how body language and facial expressions speak volumes,
correct wrong doings or mistakes.
My stay with you was a blessing not only in understanding home management but also
as a professional nurse. You spoke volumes to me to be hard working, selfless, respect-
ful and passionate in life which is still working for me. I have just retired and resting in
the comfort of my own little home in Ashaiman.

Thank you for calling me “my daughter” and I will always be thankful that I got the chance
to call you “my mother” up to date.

May the good Lord grant you eternal rest.

Amen

Rest In Peace; Dadavi Edith Yawa Akumah 20

IN MEMORY OF SISTER EDITH YAWA AKUMAH (DAVI YAWA) — Henry

Hark! hark, my soul, Angelic songs are swelling, into the Nursing Profession. You and I were born extroverts so
O’er earth’s green fields and ocean’s waves beat shore we spoke our minds freely on issues that many of our age did
How sweet the truth those blessed strains are telling not have the courage to do. Your late father admired my role
Of that new life when sin shall be no more among little children and gave me the title of “Deviwo fe
Angels of Jesus, angels of light amega”-meaning the leader of the little children. Through thick
Singing to welcome the pilgrims of the night! and thin, as we developed through life, we remained together
Frederick W Faber (1814-1863) always mutually supporting. The last time you sent lunch to my
house was just about a few days to this sudden end! You learnt
Ooh! Davi Yawa, you have also gone the same way? Certainly, from a group of people that I had come home and as always
your voice on the phone on Tuesday 25 January 2018, was not you were anxious about my welfare.
the usual one. I called just to give you an up-date on the funeral
preparations for my cousin Cornelius and my niece Cecilia Davi Yawa, as we continued to advance in age, we knew we
because you repeatedly demanded that I should not forget that would have to follow those that left before us but little did both
you were ever ready to play your part in assisting during the of us know that you were going to leave this early and suddenly!
farewell activities of both family members. Your voice was I shall dearly miss you and your wise counseling during tradition-
unusually low and I immediately requested my nephew Teacher al events.
Korsi to go to your house and find out about your health. He I have no words to express my sorrow at the news of your
returned to inform me that you said you were alright except the death. You ably played your part and I wish you a perfect peace
usual problem of not being able to walk. You asked Korsi to tell in the bosom of your Maker.
me not to worry and that you were doing well. Your sudden
departure has however confirmed my fears on that day! Dor agbe, Davi Yawa hede nyuie, Mawu nanor kpli wò.

You and I grew up in an open community where everyone was
each other’s keeper. We went to elementary school together as
contemporaries even though being the older, I was two classes
ahead of you. Your excellent academic work among boys in the
classroom was admired by all. You trained as a Nurse and
served in many communities including our home-town Tanyigbe
where you inspired other young ladies of those years to enter

Rest EIndiPtheaYacew;aDAakduamvaihEBdiiotghraYpahwya Akumah 1271

PAYING TRIBUTE TO A FALLEN CLASSMATE, FROM TOGBE SUNU II

It has never been an easy thing to speak departing words to a loved one who has passed away. But considering that death is inevitable,
I stand here to pay tribute to a great compatriot, my own classmate, sister, aunt, and noble Tanyigbe citizen Edith Yawa Akuma.

When I was enthroned fifty-one years ago as the MegbeFia of Tanyigbe and Ruler of Tanyigbe Dzafe, one of the Chiefs who came
closer to me to offer me a shoulder to lean on was Edith’s father Togbe Dziko, Chief of Adeblevi. I also worked with her Aunt NyornuFia
AbroDzuia all the years till she passed away recently.

Edith and I were classmates alongside Martin Anyidoho, Philip Gamese and Togbe Abiwu. The Class included PapaDan who eventual-
ly married her. I do not have any doubts that Edith was endowed with attributes from both parents and even her Grandfather Dzikotor:

o I know Edith as a very strong-willed person.
o As a great patriot of Tanyigbe.
o As someone in whom our cultural practices are deeply rooted.
o As someone highly talented in the arts and crafts.
o As someone very down-to-earth.
o I know Edith as a wonderful lover of all manner of people, and who cares for them.
o I can vouch for Edith as someone with extra-strong family values who speaks the truth.
o I know Edith and their home, to be very academically sharp, yes, oh, how good reader she was, especially Ewegbe and

English.
It will be a delight for any of you here to get hold of Edith’s beautiful handwriting and see it for yourself!

In her retirement, we would sit once a while to discuss family issues,
our olden days; and Tanyigbe’s progress. The good of all is that Edith
married in the Gbortsu Family of my Azyuԑ Clan of Tanyigbe Dzafe and
produced offsprings into our Clan. She was pivotal in organizing the
“Aviha” Group of Etoe to the admiration of all.

With above in mind, I do not have any doubts that Edith’s children in
our Clan are bearing the same rich attributes; this being some of the
main reasons why I approved of my Elders decision to capture her
Daughter Doris and make her the first NgoryiFia of Dzafe. When for no
apparent reason Doris resigned this new role, we again captured her.

Edith played an instrumental role in convincing her daughter to accept
our re-capture. Had Edith not agreed/consented, we wouldn’t have her
daughter accept to be our Mama Hokor. PapaDan once remarked that
he had a way to remain in overseas, but he declined just to get back to
Edith.

Edith, as long as there is memory, you will live in our hearts. I pray God
to grant you a perfect place in his bosom until we meet again that day.

Babaa na wò.

Rest In Peace; Dadavi Edith Yawa Akumah 22

FROM CHILDREN OF RTD GEN ANYIDOHO

Davi Edith, was simply a strong woman who loved all deeply, a real pillar of our
community. A mother to all, she remained to the end.
An inspiring soul, who was always there for both the young and the old.
As a true family oriented woman, her home was open to everyone and her
generosity knew no bounds. She had a special affection for the ANYIDOHO
siblings and her warm welcoming voice still rings loud in our individual ears.
Davi, we pray the good Lord grants you a perfect rest with the saints invisible.
We, truly, shall miss you.
REST IN PEACE—Agbomli Kwami Kofi-Kpe

Rest In Peace; Dadavi Edith Yawa Akumah 23

GHANA REGISTERED MIDWIVES ASSOCIATION

Rest In Peace; Dadavi Edith Yawa Akumah 24



SONGS

Edith Yawa Akumah Biography 17