Death be not proud, though some have called thee mighty and dreadful, for thou art not so…”This John Donne poem was most likely on the minds of the family members of Chief Gabriel Babatunde Awoyele Tiyamiyu, an exemplary Nigerian businessman and philanthropist as they mourned his passing to greater glory.
It was obvious that they were sad at the sudden death of their patriarch but they are comforted by the fact that not only has he left footprints on the sands of time, he also served God with so much gusto that he would be resting in bosom of the Lord.
That was reason his family rallied to give the consummate businessman who is the Adeyoruwa of Iperu-Remo, Ogun State and the Alokoso West Region a very grand and befitting burial.
His funeral was a two day affair that began with a Christian Wake coordinated by the Church of the Lord (Prayer Fellowship) where the late Chief Tiyamiyu was a distinguished Baba Ijo. The very sombre occasion was well organised as very inspirational hymns were sang while there was many segments created for prayers.
It was also here that family and friends were invited for testimonies and the deceased was showered with encomiums by various speakers. He was described in endearing terms. Whole some said he was a friendly grassroots politician and community leader, others said he was a cheerful giver who gave without expecting anything in return. He was also said to be a caring father and a man of exceptional integrity.
The following day began at the funeral service which was held at the Chapel of Ebony Vaults & Garden, Ikoyi, Lagos.The service was anchored by Archbishop Moses Olasewo who gave a homily encouraging the congregation to commit to serving God because it was inevitable that everyone will die.
He said that when one is serving God, death is not the end because the children of God were set for another life which is better and more enduring that the one on earth. The service was smooth and was not long before it was rounded off with prayers.
After his interment, guests were hosted to a sumptuous reception at Habour Point, Victoria Island, Lagos and guests were thrilled till late by Faith Band.
