Biography
In Loving Memory of Keshia : A Life of Love and Dedication
Precious [and of great consequence] in the sight of the LORD Is the death of His godly ones [so He watches over them] - Psalm 116:15
Precious [and of great consequence] in the sight of the LORD Is the death of His godly ones [so He watches over them] - Psalm 116:15
From the moment she was born in Kumasi, Ghana, on 22 November 1993, Keshia Adwoa Yeboah Mante radiated a light that touched countless lives. Her parents, Mr. Sampson Brako Mante (deceased) and Ms. Felicity Akua Aframea Oduro, welcomed her into the world with joy, never imagining just how much of an impact their daughter would have in her 30 years. As the eldest child,she embraced her first-born leadership abilities. Even as a twin, Keshia often emerged as the first to assist her mother and care for her siblings. She did not shy away from responsibilities and was always hardworking. From childhood, Keshia loved to bring smiles to people’s faces, and having a twin sister meant that many enjoyed the beauty of their double smiles.
EDUCATION
Keshia’s educational journey began in various schools, including St. Georges in Kumasi Suame, Rule-park in Dansoman, Emmanuel Presby in Dansoman, and Cefelix Academy in Lartebiokorshie. Being a twin made them quite popular, and Keshia was happy to make many friends. She carried this friendly personality with her everywhere, even to high school. In 2012, she and her twin sister enrolled at Presbyterian Senior High School in Mampong, where Keshia developed a keen interest in the Language Arts, particularly French. Upon completion, she chose to become a teacher after close mentorship from Aunty Ivy at Bevy Bilingual School and enrolled at Mount Mary College of Education in Somanya, graduating in 2019. In 2023, she began a degree program in French and German at the University of Media Arts and
Communication but unfortunately could not see to its completion because of her sudden demise.
Her passion for education was not merely a career but truly a calling. As a French teacher, she inspired young minds at Bevy Bilingual School, Savior M/A Basic School, and Divine Mercy R/C Basic School. Her students remember her not only for her teaching skills but also for her warm smile and genuine care.
Enterpreneural Spirit
Keshia was not only an educator but also a budding entrepreneur. In 2020, she founded the AY Shoe Shed and AY Enterprises, selling shoes from her car and providing household items via mobile delivery. Her determination and innovative spirit were evident in every venture she undertook. Keshia’s interpersonal skills and charm earned her the love and respect of all her clients.
Dedication to Ministry
Keshia’s love for children extended beyond the classroom. In 2013, shortly after graduating from high school, Keshia began teaching at the Children’s Service Ministry at Trinity United Church. She was dedicated to leading children to Christ, using fun and engaging methods like songs, dances, choreography, and drama. Keshia’s influence in the lives of hundreds of children is a testament to her unwavering commitment to her faith and to nurturing the next generation. Even on her sickbed, she always wished she could return to church to serve the children. Keshia was indeed a strong pillar in the Children’s Service Ministry, dedicating herself fully to its advancement. Additionally, Keshia served as a member of the welcoming committee at Trinity United Church. Her affable nature and ability to maintain connections with people made her well-suited for this role. Despite often being unseen at the adult service, she had friendly contacts within the main church and fulfilled her responsibilities diligently.
Keshia was a founding member of the Glory Women Prayer Ministries (GWPM), a group dedicated to prayer and the ministration of God’s words, right from its inception in 2015. Her dedication was evident in every aspect of her involvement, and she often served on committees and panels during GWPM programs. Keshia was a person filled with the wisdom of God.
Relationships and Family
Keshia’s super friendly nature made her a beloved friend to many. She was always the first to smile, her kindness and readiness to assist those in need leaving a lasting impression on everyone she met. She enjoyed spending time with loved ones and encouraged activities with friends and family. Her jovial spirit and knack for giving nicknames brought joy to her loved ones. Meeting Keshia often meant receiving a unique nickname or jargon to call each other. At home, Keshia led family devotions, praying and singingmany Presbyterian hymns from memory, which she sang in her special and peculiar high tenor note (which we sometimes made fun of it). She cared deeply for her family and went the extra mile to help whenever needed, warmly welcoming all new family members, including spouses of her siblings and especially her nieces and nephews.
In 2013, Keshia met Samuel Tenkorang
at church during Youth Fellowship activities. Their friendship blossomed into a beautiful relationship in 2018, culminating in their marriage in December 2023. Their love story is a testament to the deep connection and shared faith they cherished. Although their marriage was short-lived, she had great relationships with her in-laws and looked forward to family gatherings. Keshia also had nice nicknames and jargons she shared with them.
Final Moments and Legacy
In her final moments, Keshia remained a woman of unshakable faith. Even amidst her struggles, she continued to pray and solely depended on God. When asked how she was, she would always respond with, “Nyame adom ooo,” meaning “By God’s grace.” After a sudden and short battle with illness, Keshia passed away in the arms of her sister, Natasha, and in the presence of her husband, Sammy, and her mother, Mama Akua, on June 11, 2024. Indeed, her last moments were filled with love.
Keshia Adwoa Yeboah Tenkorang’s life, though brief, was marked by love, dedication, and unwavering faith. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of her students, the children she guided, her family, and all who were fortunate enough to know her. Her light continues to shine, reminding us of the profound impact one life can have.
Rest in peace, dear Keshia. Your smile, your kindness, and your love will never be forgotten.
Nyame nfa wo kra nsie. Sleep well.