The remains of Mama Therese Ugbolue, beloved mother of Professor Samuel Ugbolue, have been laid to rest amid tributes and heartfelt celebrations of a life well lived.
Mama Ugbolue, who transitioned peacefully to eternal glory on Friday, October 20, 2025, at the remarkable age of 98, was buried in her husband’s country home in Issele-Uku after a solemn and spirit-filled funeral service at Issele Baptist Church, Issele-Uku, Aniocha North Local Government Area of Delta State.
The funeral service, officiated by a team of clergy led by Rev. S. S. Ejeogwu, drew family members, in-laws, friends, and well-wishers from across Nigeria and the Diaspora. It was a gathering marked by gratitude, reverence, and celebration of a matriarch whose life touched many.
In his homily, Rev. Ejeogwu offered words of hope and consolation to the bereaved family, drawing from Isaiah 54:10. He reminded them of God’s unfailing kindness, declaring, “The mountains shall depart, but My kindness shall not depart.” He paid glowing tribute to the late Mother Theresa Sunday Ugbolue, describing her as a woman who lived a full and impactful life, leaving behind a legacy of faith and love. He encouraged the family to hold firmly to the comfort of God’s peace and cherish her memory as a blessing.
Delivering an emotional tribute, Prof. Samuel Ugbolue described his mother as “a living testament to the Beatitudes of Matthew 5.” He recalled her life of prayer, humility, and unwavering trust in God, which radiated the love of Christ in her daily walk.
He recounted how Mother Theresa, who operated a thriving stall at the Issele-Uku Afor Market for over six decades, transformed ordinary market days into moments of fellowship and kindness. “She turned her humble stall into a sanctuary where customers became friends,” he wrote, noting that her presence brought warmth and generosity to all who encountered her.
Prof. Ugbolue further highlighted her role as a respected leader among the Agwachime women, known for offering wise counsel, comfort, and support to both her church and the wider community. Her compassion, humility, and devotion to service, he said, extended far beyond her immediate family.
He added that even in her late 90s, Mother Theresa remained remarkably active, prayerful, and mentally alert, joining a family video call on October 16, 2025, just days before her peaceful transition, sharing laughter and love with her children and grandchildren.
Mama Therese Ugbolue is survived by five children, 16 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren, and many cousins, nephews, nieces, and friends whose lives she touched deeply.
Guests were later hosted to a warm reception at the Omado Primary School field in Issele-Uku, where memories of Mama Theresa’s kindness and legacy continued to flow.
