Omowonuola Gift Obatusa

With profound sadness, we honor the life of Omowonuola Gift Obatusa, who left us too soon on August 1, 2023, at the age of 24. Gift, as she was affectionately known, was the beloved firstborn of Judith Kambia Obatusa, the surviving twin who became a beacon of love and light in her family’s life.

A Loving Heart

Gift's love was her defining quality, especially towards her younger sister Simisola Beauty and her two brothers, Sijuola Israel and Eniola Happiness. She was the heart of her family, creating joy in every corner she touched. Whether it was playing at Playland with her siblings or having family dinners at the Cactus Club, Gift crafted memorable, loving experiences for her family. Her brothers will forever cherish her cuddles, and her sister Simisola will always feel the warmth of Gift’s protective embrace.

A Creative Soul

Gift was an extraordinary stylist, possessing an impeccable fashion sense that was more than a career; it was her way of sharing her love and care with others, helping them to feel beautiful and confident.

Her Voice and Faith

With a singing voice that could move hearts—the best in her family—Gift used her gift to express her deep faith in Lord Jesus, her steadfast belief that He would guide her through all of life’s troubles.

Her Struggle and Strength

Living in Canada, Gift faced significant and painful challenges. She endured racism, societal indifference, and personal traumas that caused her deep, enduring mental anguish. "Canada has not been good to me," she would say, summarizing a complex and painful experience in a land that should have been her home. Yet, in the face of this immense pain, Gift focused on the good in others, refusing to meet judgment with judgment. Her social intelligence was exceptional, enabling her to engage deeply with issues of racism and culture, and to provide enlightening perspectives in discussions.

A Resilient Spirit

Despite her struggles, Gift was a fierce protector, seeking to shield her family from her pain, to ensure that they saw more of life's joys than its sorrows. Even as she experienced unbearable suffering, she remained hardworking and dedicated—an inspiration evident since her youth, like when, at 14 years old, she immaculately cleaned the entire house to help her father impress a visiting boss.

Her Legacy of Love and Understanding

As we mourn our beloved Gift, we also celebrate the love she gave, the lives she touched, and the enduring wisdom she imparted. Gift Obatusa’s legacy is one of love, grace, and profound empathy, and her spirit will forever inspire those fortunate enough to have known her.

In her memory, let us all be a little kinder, love a little deeper, and judge a little less.

May her soul rest in eternal peace, free from the pain she endured in life, and may her spirit continue to guide and watch over us with love.

Funeral Service will be held on Friday, August 25, 2023 at 10:00 am at Eagle Ridge Bible Fellowship Church (1160 Lansdowne Drive, Coquitlam BC)

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.firstmemorialportcoquitlam.com for the Obatusa family.