As your firstborn, I can easily say that I enjoyed the most and best of you. You were such a feisty young woman with all good intentions. Singlehandedly, you worked so hard to provide the basics of life's comforts for your family. I remember you walking miles in St. Kitts: to & from your various domestic jobs; we walked to the Anglican Church where you were an active member teaching us about faith and morality; we went with family friends to their churches, learning  religious freedom & tolerance; we would walk to see the Christmas lights & seasonal decorations, the lighting of the Christmas tree in The Town Square & singing Christmas carols (makes me nostalgic to date). You did your best to see that we had a good education, sending me to the US as a young teenager for more & better opportunities 

After I became an RN & got married, I asked you to join me in Cameroon with my 2 young sisters. How brave you were to give up the life you knew in St. Kitts to travel across the Atlantic to unknown parts. You had such faith in me! You came to love your life in Cameroon, managing the household and your grandchildren which gave me peace of mind to build my career, knowing that you were there. Thank you! The fun we had together as we tried to pronounce the names, tried pidgin and French, reveled in the different cultures & ways of doing things; loving the sometimes-familiar music. Mother, it was not always smooth or easy but you overcame a lot. Your winning personality, laughter & ready smile is known throughout Bali & beyond. You were well loved as much as you loved others freely.  You gave your youth, energy & time to your children, to me in particular & then to my family over & over. Thank you!
Your life of service has come to an end but your spirit lives on in us.
I hope that over the years I not only told you but did show you just how much I loved and appreciated you. Thank you, Mother, I Love you! Rest in Peace till we meet again.
Patsy

As your firstborn, I can easily say that I enjoyed the most and best of you. You were such a feisty young woman with all good intentions. You singlehandedly worked so hard to provide the basics of life's comforts for your family. I remember you walking miles in St. Kitts: to & from your various domestic jobs; we walked to the Anglican Church where you were an active member, teaching us about faith and morality; you sent us with family friends to their churches learning religious freedom & tolerance; we would walk into town to see the Christmas lights, seasonal decorations, the lighting of the Christmas tree in The Town Square & singing Christmas carols (makes me nostalgic to this day). You did your best to see that we had a good education, sending me to the US as a young teenager for more and better opportunities for.  After I became an RN and got married, I asked you to join me in Cameroon with my 2 young sisters. How brave you were to give up the life you knew in St. Kitts to travel across the Atlantic to unknown parts. You had such faith in me! You came to love your life in Cameroon, managing the household and your grandchildren which gave me peace of mind to build my career, knowing that you were there. Thank you!
The fun we had together as we tried to pronounce the names, tried pidgin and French, reveled in the different cultures and ways of doing things, loving and dancing to the sometimes familiar music.  Mother, it was not always smooth & easy but you overcame a lot, your winning personality, laughter & ready smile is known throughout Bali & beyond. You were well loved as much as you loved others freely. You gave your youth, energy & time to your children, to me in particular & then to my family over and over. Thank you! Your life of service has come to an end but your spirit lives on in us. I hope that over the years I not only told you but did show you just how much I loved & appreciated you. Mother, I Love you! Rest in Peace till we meet again. Patsy.

Holland Michigan is what most consider as one of the coldest places in the US, but it was also home to one of the warmest souls who ever lived, my Grandma Enid. She brought the warmth of the Caribbean sun wherever she went, and touched the heart of everyone she encountered.

Although I didn't have the pleasure of growing up with her, or spending a lot of time with her, the moments we did shar were always high-spirited and special. I remember vividly her scolding me in the most amusing way when I caught her sneaking a slice of cake at our family reunion. She proved to me that she set her own rules, irrespective of other people's opinions, and I admired her for it! We lived miles apart but whenever we spoke, it was as if there was no distance between us at all. She always remembered my voice, asked me about school, relayed all the great food she ate, told me how the other grandkids were doing, and of course complained about the Michigan weather then proceeded to ask me when I was coming to visit.

I will miss my grandma dearly, her voice, her embrace, her humor, and most importantly, the love she had for her family.

I love you grandma. Sleep in peace.
Your granddaughter, Vanessa Woods.

From birth until my teenage years,  my Mother  did her best raising us with limited means. She would dispense discipline that I later came to understand as necessary for living - I remember several occasions when I was reprimanded that I now appreciate. She taught us responsibility for each other: my brother Andrew  and I were entrusted with our little sisters' care after school was done; we were encouraged to visit with our uncles and grandmother. We maintained contact when Mother left with Patsy to live in Cameroon, but it was made easier when she returned to the US - she always said I was her favorite son whenever we talked, always inquiring about my kids, laughed with me, listened to me. Mother, may your soul rest in peace especially after such a long respectful life, full of laughter, manners and discipline. Walk good, and may you dwell in the house of the Almighty, beholding his beauty for eternity. Thank you for life and the great lessons you instilled in me. I will miss you for who you were, what you stood for, and all the things you did. Love, Cheers, and my utmost gratitude and respect, always. Your son, Alton Woods.

Dearest Lela, Nellie, Auntie Pat and the entire family,

I'm sad to learn of Granny's passing. I have the fondest memories of her from the times Diana and I visited you all in Bobende. She was ever so sweet and warm - truly a beautiful soul. May your memories with Granny bring you comfort and peace. I pray that The Lord wraps your family firmly in His grip and gives you strength.

Much love, hugs and blessings.
Frida Mosenge Sells

My darling Granny, I am thankful for the time we spent together last September. I was looking forward to seeing you again but God has a reason for calling you home. Your laughter was always infectious, you taught me to laugh through life's difficult moments. You fiercely loved us all and never hesitated to teach life's lessons when the moment arose. I will continue to celebrate memories of you till we meet again.

I sit here in Tampa, pondering on how much I miss talking to you because there are so many things we did not get to say. 

Sis, I know how much we cared for each other and each time I think of you I know you will be missed.  Although your life on

Earth has past, in Heaven it starts anew …………… you will live for all eternity just as God has promised you

 

I reflect on the times I visited you at St Peters, spending hours eating fruits and talking about everything under the sun.  As children

we were practically joined at the hip, I being your baby brother with 15 years apart.  We grew up and grew apart as most siblings do.

We had our set of friends and our own set of goals for our lives, but that still did not change the fact that there was nothing I would

not have done for you, like running 2 miles to inform Nurse Hendrickson that you were about to give birth, and there was nothing

you would not have done for me either, like teaching me how to iron.

 

The legacy we have from you is that you taught us love and how to fight. Your gave us strength, you gave us might, a stronger person

would be hard to find and in your heart you were always kind. You fought for us all in one way or another, not just as a sister, wife,

or mother but for all of us you gave your best.  Now the time has come for you to rest, so go in peace; you have earned your sleep. 

Your love in our hearts we will eternally keep.


Love you Sis

Vincent & Lucille and Family

My Nanna. There are not enough words to express how grateful I am that God saw it fit to share you with me. For the better part of my youth, you were there for me and taught me so many lessons that I carry with me today. You and I shared a special bond that only grew as I got older and appreciated you even more, as I understood all that you gave to help make me who I am. Everyone who knew me had at least heard of you, but mostly they knew that you had a very special place in my heart. I was heartbroken during your decline, but only because you were no longer yourself. I am more so now, but only because I can no longer call you during the day and hear you say “My Baby!” I’m glad you saw me married and met Bryan, but sorry you never got to tend to Josiah like you’d wanted to (I was so looking forward to that ‘cute overload’) but your spirits met when I got to see you the last time you were yourself. I’m confident he felt your warmth and love just as we did. He will get to know you through all the stories I have from my childhood, as well as the videos I made sure to get of you every chance I got to visit. Nanna, I miss you so much. Be good up there! I love you always and forever.

Nellie. 

Mommy, you were a special mother to us. I remember when you were in Cameroon you treated everyone who came around u as ur biological child. I can still picture that ur beautiful   smiling face u always wear. Mommy my heart bleeds when l hear of your passing away but l can’t question God because l know heaven has gained a soul. Sleep well dear mother until we meet to part no more.
            Mary Tilong from Cameroon.

We from Sokolo Green gate, Limbe
Have fond memories of "MOTHER" while she lived at Bobenbe.
We trust God that, she's resting at His bosom. 
May her gentle soul rest in perfect peace. 

Bertha Ebanga Tabe
& Children

Aunt Enid, though you have lived a long and fruitful life, it seems like yesterday, when we were very young children visiting you at your home in Buckley’s Estate, St. Kitts on weekends. We recall your deep chuckle as you related a story, your infectious smile which lingered even if you had to admonish us. 

Then we recall the void left in our hearts when you migrated to Cameroon in Africa.  Then your earthly adventure took you to the United States. It would be many moons before we connected again in Michigan and at the family reunion on St. Kitts.  In our reunion we laughed, cried, and reminisced to our heart fill.   

The memories we shared have etched an indelible mark in our hearts forever.  Rest in Peace our sweet aunt Enid.

 Bernard, Sharon, and Jasmine Welsh

Mother l first met you on March 20,1979 when I was barely over 12 years old. While you were taking care of your grand kids, you accepted me wholeheartedly as your son. You played that double role from Mondoni, through Tiko, Limbe, all in Cameroon and here, Holland Michigan lasting over a period of 42 years.

Your heart’s desire throughout this period was always to cater for and raise your grandchildren, a role you accomplished perfectly earning your fond name Granny.

Mother, l appreciate all the years we have live together, not forgetting your care for me especially when l just came into this country.
Your valuable advice has made me not only a better parent, cook but a near  complete person as a whole.

May you find solace in the bosom of the Almighty.
Farewell mother until it is our turn to join you to part no more.

Clement D. Monie and his family.


Wonderful, Cool and Calm Granny. 

Popularly known as Granny, those early years of interaction were interesting, the sound of your voice as you would be involved in conversations with the adults and when you would call out for the children will still stay with us. Your love, care and cooking and concern over the children were as a mother's mother - GRANNY. You always kept the discussions interesting and exciting, I can see your laughter and the moments when we needed some words of instruction. Thank God for your life  and it will continue to  be in our memories. Peace.


Dear Pat and family,
 
We are so very for your loss and send you our warmest condolences.
 
It is hard loosing a parent... I know this from experience. The sadness and the grief will not vanish easily. But it will get better day by day. Think of the good and happy memories. They bring joy and light and hopefully a smile on your faces. 
 
She is in heaven now even if heaven might not exist somewhere beyond the sky above us. Heaven is a place in our hearts. And this is were our loved and lost ones have their place too. Always.

Hugs from Germany,
 
Anne and family

I had the privilege to meet a very kind and caring mother like you i became very attached to you and added value to myself i became a full member of your family,i remember the little jokes we enjoyed together laughing smiling sorrowing for me when things went wrong,let your name be ever in .my household.there remaineth a rest for the people of God for she who enters his rest has himself also ceased from her work herb 4:9_10 .Go happy soul your days are ended go in God's own paradise now go.Precious in the side of the lord is the death of his sins ps 116:15 .in our hearts forever in prayer distance is not a barrier but physically distance is a barrier for my health and age i will be absent.  SERAH NTUBA Cameroon

Dear Granny,

Many times in life we come across individuals whose light shine so bright it illuminates our own lives. You were one of those people to me. What I will always cherish about you is your never ending jovial nature; whenever I had visited whether in Wisconsin or Michigan, you always seemed happy and even though like every human being you surely dealt with difficult moments, you always had an outward appearance of joviality and exuberance, and this was infectious. You were loving and family oriented, tough and understanding. You left a long lasting impression on me even in the relatively limited time I spent with you. I wish I had come and visit more often but I take comfort in the knowledge that you are finally at rest, free from the troubles of this world. You are where you belong, in the Grace of our Lord. Your legacy will continue to shine through your children and future generations to come. I will continue to hold dear the memory of you for the rest of my days. We will miss you dearly Granny.  

Nketti Edmond Fomunung 


Mother, you were a mom to all who ever met you.
From the day I met you in Tiko as I was visiting with my friend Pat, our love for each other clicked. You continue to make me feel at home in Bobende-Limbe Cameroon.  There was always a crowd in Bobende but you made all feel welcomed.  You adjusted to all the Cameoon cultures, you were loved by your church.  When you returned to America, you choose to come home again (Cameroon) to celebrate your 70th birthday with us. You were hailed as a queen because of the love you shared with all. How happy I was to have that wonderful video call with you last year.  So, Mother, the
'Goodbyes today are not forever,
Goodbyes are not the end
They simply mean, l will miss you until we meet again.'
Koko, your Cameroon daughter.

My bond with started when she visited in Florida for a couple weeks. She consoled me while my fiancé was away at boot camp. Then later she visited our home In Atlanta bringing her dear granddaughter Lela which began another bond. I will always hold all of the fond memories in my heart. May she rest peacefully in the Lilly fields. My condolences to the family. I love you all.
Your niece Andrea Woods Jackson

Popularly known to many of us as “Mother” was one of the finest, hardworking, and kindhearted persons I have ever known.
I first came to know Mother when one of her many grandchildren, Lela Fokumlah, was just a baby and her Cameroon family visited me in Bamenda, Cameroon.

Since then, I had many more chances to spend time in their family house at Mondoni and Bobende, Cameroon.
Mother cared for everyone in the house including guests with a smile on her face.
Mother’s warmth was infectious and welcoming. Mother knew all house guests by their names and made everyone felt special.

Mother cleaned, washed, ironed, cooked, organized, and still had time to spend time with me, a guest and always with a smile on her face. Mother’s delicious lemonade at meal times, especially at breakfast, was something I enjoyed. I learned how to make lemonade from scratch by watching Mother.

Mother’s experience living in the West and Cameroon bridged my food transition from exclusively Cameroon-type cuisine to a sort of blended and/or adaptable diet. When I was coming to the U.S. for the first time, Mother carefully packaged for the journey, Cameroon-type foods that she knew I would need and/or may not quickly find in the US.

In appreciating my picky eating habit, Mother also packaged finger foods for me to eat on the plane if I did not want what was served during the flight.  So, I call her Mother because she did for me what only a loving mother would do for her child.

Mother’s smile and warmth remain on many minds and hearts. She has come to the end of her earthly journey and time to be with her maker.

I sincerely thank her again for selflessly sharing what she had with me and many others.

Thanks be to God to have created her for humanity.

God, we surrender Ms. Enid Thomas’ spirit to your safe keeping in eternity.

Mother, rest in perfect peace until we meet again. Amen.

Doctor Marie N. Fongwa

April 10, 2022


My dear mother, you were such a special mother to all of us. How we are going to miss you!
I remember your days back in Cameroon . We were neighbors in Tiko where you lived with your daughter Pat and her family. Through your friendship with Mbamba Liengu, my grandmother( of late), the Fokumlah and the Balimba family got to know each other, developing a strong and lasting bond until today. This friendship was an interesting one as communication was a big challenge. You didn’t understand pidgin English and Mbamba Liengu couldn’t understand your West Indian ascent yet you both carried on with your conversation to the dismay of all of us. I am certain that this friendship will continue in eternity.

Mother you were such a selfless and hardworking person, full of joy and laughter. You made us feel special each time we visited at Bobende, providing us with delicious meals and making sure we were comfortable. Thank you mother for the care and love you showered on to all of us the Balimba family and to many others. 

May your gentle soul rest in the bosom of the Lord. Amen.



Granny, as we all know her was jovial and had a very characteristic laugh that put  everyone at ease.  Her cuisine and desserts stay in the recesses of my mind. Her Grand-motherly presence will be missed, but her influence will endure. May her soul rest in peace.

I remember granny making us dumplings in Limbe. That was my first time to have them and they were good! She was always good with the kids, cooking and taking care of us! Always smiling and laughing too! I spoke to her on WhatsApp video call sometime last year I think. I was glad to see her again. Rest well granny! With love, Mpoke❤ 

Mother, fair thee well. We will always miss you. You were a mother to all, always smiling and ready to embrace others. 

GRANNY IS GONE
BUT HER LOVE AND CARE
HER HEARTWARMING SMILE
HER INFECTIOUS LAUGHTER 
WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN 
YOU WILL BE GREATLY MISSED 
YOU ARE IN A BETTER PLACE 
AT LAST RESTING 
REST ON GRANNY 
                 MEGNE TANTSE 


It is with deep sadness to know Mami is no more. She was always accommodating, kind and full of laughter each time I visited Bobende with Madam Fokumlah. I wished Mami could stay more but God loves her more. You will be forever in our hearts 🙏.


Babila George,

Limbe, Cameroon


Hi Sis Pat,Hi Nellie; all is not lost.Mother and grandmother lived a life of service to others first.I fondly remember her "always present"either cooking or doing something else in the house at Isokolo,Cameroon.
God has called you back into His bossom.
Nanna we miss you,thank God for the great life He gave you.
May your gentle soul rest in peace.
   Eli  Tanyi   (Limbe   Cameroon)
     


Dear Granny fare thee well and have a peaceful rest. I remember your chocolate cake and your loud and infectious laugh.  Grateful for the short time I knew you. Say hi to my twinnie  Nina. 
Rest in the bosom of the Lord. 

Mrs Woods Thomas. I have known you From since I was A little girl growing up.You were always a pleasant and friendly person .May you Rest in eternal peace ✌️ 🙏 ❤️. Love LOLA 



The first, (and dare I say) the only granny  I actually got to know first hand and experience as a child  growing up. Granny Thomas is engraved into every fabric of my childhood memories in Bobende, Bota, Limbe, Cameroon.  
I still remember all the tasty treats and how generous granny was  with food portions and desserts. Coming to visit was always a treat in itself.  Granny embodied resilience, strength, and radiant beauty within and without.   

Granny has left big giant footsteps in the sand of time for us ( women, mothers, and parents) to follow or draw inspiration. 



Sweet Granny! Your laughter was infectious and brought so much joy. I will miss you but know you are watching over us from above. Love you!


I had the privilege to meet Enid on video calls, that is when I saw her and listen to one beautiful woman , with a smile and glitter in her eyes. I see how her family, friends received her goodness and faith that will carry on forever. Thank you for the honor in crossing your many paths.
           Cheryl  Joy  Nadler
            Friend of family
             Honolulu, Hawaii 

Pat, 
Sending you and your family thoughts of prayers and comfort at this time. May God’s Grace surround you with the peace that passers all understanding. 
Frances,
Hawaii

Aunty Enid was our other mother. She and our mom were sisters and shared the upbringing of her six biological children and  ten of us.  We did not know the difference between our cousins and each other due to the love they both have to us. 
We will miss her laughter, her joy in the simple tasks and her unbridled love for her family. We have so many lasting memories that a lifetime will not erase. 
On behalf of our mom, Muriel ( Mother Coolie) and our siblings, rest in eternal peace, Aunty Enid. Your love and guidance has paved a path of humility for us to follow.
Muriel and family.



Mother leaves behind so many beautiful memories. Her infectious laugh and  warm hugs will be missed. We will cherish the special memories we all shared with her♥️ 
My condolences Auntie Carol and the entire family. May her gentle soul Rest In Peace🙏🏽

Lots of love from Stéphane, Kayeba, Nahla and Jalla. 

To Carol, Bob and the children,
Mother's mortal flesh may be gone from this earthly dwelling as it should but her spirit lives on. We will cherish every moment we dpent with her. I can almost hear her laughter and feel her hug. Just thinking about it brings a smile to my face. May her beautiful soul RIP.
Lilian, on behalf of the Fomunungs of Chattanooga. 

Auntie Enid had an infectious laugh. Whenever we spoke, she would always include the phrase, “I’m  so happy and proud”. She was very proud of her family. This spring celebration of her life will serve in my mind as the spring celebration of her birth as she would sometimes say that she wanted to have a birthday celebration  in April as January was too cold for people to attend. Love you always Auntie. (Gail & “Sonny’s children)

OBITUARY

Enid Woods-Thomas

January 4, 1931 – April 8, 2022

Lakeshore Memorial Services

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