Tributes

“Beloved, now we are children of God; and it has not yet appeared what we shall be, but we know that when He appears, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is. And everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself, just as He is pure”

(I John 3:2-3).

When we think of Keshia, what comes to mind is a young lady who loves

the Lord Jesus Christ;

When we think of Keshia, we think of a dedicated and a rare Sunday School Teacher who just loves to see children nurtured in theChristian Faith;

When we think of Keshia, we think of her leading our family evening devotions and singing all the verses of “My Jesus I Love Thee” from memory;

When we think of Keshia, we think of a serviceable, respectful, well bred, and a loving Christian young lady that could be trusted in all respects;

When we think of Keshia, we think of a very hard working young woman who took her job as a school teacher very seriously;

When we think of Keshia, we think of a young woman who had “home wisdom” and never forgot to combine her professional career with basic household chores;

When we think of Keshia, we think of an up and coming young woman that one could trust;

When we think of Keshia, we think of a versatile young woman for whom the future was very bright.

We have memories of Keshia when she was a baby; we have memories of Keshia when she was a flower girl at weddings; we have memories of Keshia when she was in elementary school; we have memories of Keshia when she went to Senior High School and when she attended Mount Mary’s College of Education; we have memories of Keshia when she graduated; we have memories of Keshia when we tried to engage her in the French language because she taught French at her school; we have memories of her when we prayed and had Bible Studies at home; we have memories of her when we celebrated birthdays in our “big family”, especially those for children; we have memories of Keshia when she was learning to drive; we have memories of Keshia when she had goodtimes and when she had bad times; we have memories of Keshia when we sat down with her on her 30th birthday, just last November, to discuss her future investment plans; we have memories of Keshia when we gave her in marriage and walked her through the aisle in this very chapel at her wedding, just about seven months ago; but we also have memories of her when she was not well and was in pain a few weeks ago; we have memories of her when we discussed

the possibility of flying her abroad for medical treatment; we have memories of her when she was dying; and we have memories of her as she died with faith in our Lord Jesus Christ, with eternal life in view.

Keshia, to us, you have just travelled and we know with all our hearts that we will see you again in heaven. The greatest testimony you left behind was that you were trustworthy, an exemplar of the Christian faith in all respects (especially for young adults), and a faithful servant of our Lord Jesus Christ. We love you, Keshia; bye for now. We will all meet again in heaven.

Hymn:

“Sing the wondrous love of Jesus, sing His mercy and His grace; in the mansions bright and blessed He’ll prepare for us a place.

Refrain: When we all get to heaven, what a day of rejoicing that will be; when we all see Jesus, we’ll sing and shout the victory”.

“Onward to the prize before us! Soon His beauty we’ll behold; soon the pearly gates will open — we shall tread the streets of gold.” [Refrain]

1. O soul, are you weary and troubled? No light in the darkness you see? There’s light for a look at the Savior, And life more abundant and free!

Refrain:

Turn your eyes upon Jesus,
Look full in His wonderful face,
And the things of earth will grow strangely dim,
In the light of His glory and grace.

2. Thro’ death into life everlasting, He passed, and we follow Him there; O’er us sin no more hath dominion— For more than conqu’rors we are!

3. His Word shall not fail you—He promised;
Believe Him, and all will be well: Then go to a world that is dying,

His perfect salvation to tell!

Sometimes I hear the sound of your voice calling out “Adwoa.” I wish you were still here with us, but you had no choice. Rest from this wicked and evil world.

I want you to know your impact on our lives was immeasurable. I miss you, and I cry. Most people cannot believe you are really gone. My heart is broken, and my spirit moans. “She was too young to die,” I have heard people say. “Why did she have to die this way?”

I try not to be angry. I kneel and pray, asking God to be with us as we face each day. I always try to give Mum extra love and comfort, to make up for her daugh- ter she will forever miss. Adwoa, this void is too huge for me to fill. You have always been the oldest.

Adwoa, “Deɛn na mɛyɛ”? I only look to God in these trying times to see me through. Adwoa, I miss you. Every day I miss you. Every day I will miss you. Put- ting this together makes me more broken because it confirms I’m really not going to see you again. I’m so pained, I’m so devastated. Adwoa, enti wo kɔ ampa? Ɛeeii! Awurade, so me mu na asem yi yɛ den.

All the memories we shared from infancy till now, I will forever cherish in my heart. She would always say, “Natasha deɛ sɛ ɛba no sikasɛm a, na ɔde me panin ma me.” Adwoa! A selfless sister you were to us. Thank you for all the ‘rasta coins’

you showered on us, all the sacrifices you made for us to be comfortable, and all the beautiful people you’ve introduced me to. I’m truly thankful.

My sister loved God; she served God till her last breath. Even on her sickbed, she would pray, read scriptures, and fast. On 10th June, she fought with me because I gave her breakfast so she could take her medication. She asked, “Maa, Ɛnɛ yɛ dabɛn?” and Mum replied, “Monday.” Her response was, “Aaah! Ɛna mo ama me adidi no? Aden na Natasha ɛyɛɛ saa? W’asɛe me fasting no.”

BB, Ken, Naa, May, Ama, YaaYaa, Stan- dard, your twins, Shadow, and Officer are all asking who will be the one to fill the void you’ve left in our hearts? Though we yearn for your physical embrace, that is no longer possible. We are so grateful for the years we had, the support you gave us, and the love that will forever reside in our hearts.

I know you are happy in Heaven be- cause, at the point of your departure, you still had your broad smile. But today, on earth, our hearts still grieve because you are no longer here with us. We will look towards heaven, for we know we will see a star that will suddenly glow big and bright, and it will be you smiling and watching over us.

Da yie, Nyame nfa wo nsie. Adwoa, Due. Due ne amanehunu.

“He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.” - Revelation 21:4”

Sweetheart, though your time with us was far too short, your impact on our lives will be felt forever. In just five brief months, you brought so much joy, love, and light into our family.

Your smile could brighten any room, and your laughter was contagious. Your kindness, compassion, and generosity inspired us all.

As a wife, you were a rock for Sammy, supporting and encouraging him with unwavering devotion. Your love for each other was a beautiful thing to witness.

We take comfort in the memories we shared with you. We will cherish every moment, every laughter, and every conversation.
Rest in peace sweetheart. Your memory will be a blessing to us all.

With love and tears. IN-LAWS

“Do not let your hearts be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me. In my Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also.” John 14:1-3

Miss Keisha Adwoa Mante was reposted from Saviour M/A Basic School to Divine Mercy R/C Basic School, Papase in the Ga West Municipality on 18th January 2021 under the then headmaster Godwin H. Ocloo to teach French

Language. She did all her work diligently as young as she was. She was always first to be in school and made sure that students tidied up the compound and got ready for lessons.

As a devoted Christian from a Presbyterian home, she made sure that Wednesday worship service was held in the school on a weekly basis. Anytime the Reverend Father was around, she organized the learners for Mass.
Young and energetic Keisha was in charge of Girl-Child Education and a coordinator for Children’s Parliament for Action Aid. She played her role well to introduce the French language to students at the upper primary level before they get to the JHS level.

To an exceptional colleague, sister and friend, we pay tribute to your unwavering dedication, expertise and teamwork. Your contributions have been invaluable, and your presence has made our workplace brighter - for instance, securing an NGO to renovate a place for the school library.

We appreciate your willingness to lend a hand, share your knowledge and support us in countless ways. Your positive attitude, kindness and sense of humour have created a lasting impact. We celebrate your achievement, your commitment to excellence and thememories we have shared. You were a true asset to our school and we are grateful for the opportunity to work alongside you.

Damirifua Due! Due!
Adwoa Due !!
Keisha Due ne amanehunu!!

“To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die.” Thomas Campbell

Keisha, you were so full of life. You’re gone too soon, so very young. We hardly take in the fact that your sudden demise has unexpectedly terminated the moments we enjoyed with you. Every moment we shared as a family and the memories I have of you will forever be cherished. Though you are no longer with us, your photos and smiles will forever be a testament to your amazing spirit. You’re sadly missed and will forever remain in our hearts.

Dearly loved. Sleep well.

“Then I heard a voice from Heaven say, ‘’write this: Blessed are the dead who die In the Lord from now on.’’
Yes, says the spirit,
They will rest from their labor,
For their deeds will follow them.’’ (Rev. 14:13)

Adwoa, as we call her, was not just a friend but the most beautiful, caring, lovely, and confident sister we found in a friend. Keisha, Vida, and Dorcas formed a close-knit group bonded by friendship and sisterhood as we all served in the Children’s Ministry. Keshia and Tasha, being twins, shared a special connection that extended beyond mere siblinghood; they were best friends, so we ended up becoming friends with Tasha as well, although she did not serve in the Children’s Ministry. Known for her calm demeanor and strong faith, Keshia stood out among the group, which she named the “FANTASTIC FOUR,” as the most cool- headed and God-fearing. Her favorite quote is (Psalm 119:11: “Your word I have hidden in my heart that I may not sin against you”). Whenever she faced any challenge, she would remind herself of this verse. Her presence always brought a sense of peace and positivity.

In December 2023, Keshia and Tasha celebrated a joyous twin wedding, a momentous occasion that marked a new chapter in their lives. Excitement brimmed as we made plans to treat our friends, the newlyweds and their husbands, to a special outing after allowing them time to savor their honeymoon bliss. However, our plans were unexpectedly halted when tragedy struck. Keisha fell illnot long after the wedding, and despite hopes and prayers for her recovery, she peacefully passed away to join her Maker.

The news of her death deeply saddened our hearts. Our last visit to her home was on a Sunday which was two days after her demise, and even in pain and sadness, we shared moments of laughter and heartwarming conversation—a testament to her enduring spirit and optimism even in challenging times.

The bond forged among us was one of love, support, and shared memories. Adepa! Your presence has left an indelible mark on our lives, and your memories will continue to live on in our hearts. We cherish the moments we had together and the profound impact you’ve had on us. Though parted, we know you’re still with us. The friendship and memories we share will remain a cherished tribute to a remarkable woman who touched our lives deeply.

We love you, Adwoa! But we believe God loves you more. Rest on till we meet on that beautiful shore

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” 2 Timothy 4:7

Auntie Keshia, how can names of Trinity United Church Sunday School or Children’s Ministry teachers be mentioned without you? We were all dumbstruck when the News of your passing started circulating on the morning of June 11, 2024. For most of us, we chose not to believe it. One of us posted this on our platform, which echoed our collective thoughts “I’m speechless. It is indeed difficult for me to accept this information. Is it true? How? I have so many questions to ask. My first question is ‘how about the high level of commitment to the Children’s Ministry?

Does it mean we will not see you again in Sunday school? And that during occasions like picnics and Vacation Bible School you will not be found? And that we will not see you teaching the children again? Again, we will not admire your style of leading the children to sing Action Songs, Keshia? Furthermore, should we forget about your movements from the Under-five room to the storeroom? So many thoughts are running through my mind. I’m picturing you at Sunday School. Oh God have mercy on us and hold our hearts. May the Lord comfort us. My condolences.”

This sums up our tribute to you this morning, our colleague, sister and friend. You are sorely missed already. The children are not left out in this pain and shock.

Auntie Keshia, as we all affectionately called her was a very active teacher who taught in both the Under 5 and Primary classes of the Ministry with much versatility and admiration of all the other teachers.

Her dedication to the Children’s Ministry was evident in her consistence and enthusiasm to her Father’s Business. At service every Sunday, Auntie Keshia brought a sense of joy and energy that was contagious, helping to create a warm and welcoming environment for all the children especially those under-five years old, they loved her to bits. Her humility was just so admirable, very cool, calm and collected zeal to deliver always. She had very special listening skills and this helped her perform her tasks well as well as empathize with her colleague teachers. Her soft voice was so soothing especially to the children Under 5 and to us all.

Being a trained teacher, Auntie Keshia brought her training to bear with a special teaching style which was both engaging and educational. She had a unique ability to connect with children of all ages, making complex Biblical concepts accessible and understandable. Her lessons were always well-prepared and interactive, incorporating crafts, games, and songs that reinforce the day’s message.

Auntie Keshia, we are about to have Vacation Bible School (VBS), how are we

going to do this without you? Who is going to put actions to our songs? It is just too difficult to accept that you are gone. Who are we to question God? But God this is very difficult for us. A very dedicated servant in Your Vineyard. You were always willing to help with the writing of lessons for VBS and identify crafts, songs and many other activities. Our Nativity Day will follow, then Hosannah (Palm Sunday Procession) then Children’s Day, Oh Auntie Keshia! All these can never be the same without you. Lord, our hearts are heavy. We are consoled by the fact that we know you are in a better place. Keshia, you’ve gone too quickly to walk on the Streets of Gold we teach the children about.

When the Church decided to rededicate the Girls and Boys Brigade after years of dormancy, Keshia was one of the people who volunteered her services and enrolled as a Girls Brigade Officer. She served in the Girls Brigade for many years. Whenever there’s work to be done for the Lord, you would certainly see Auntie Keshia. She willingly demonstrated one of our songs; “When He calls me, I will answer.” She was always somewhere working for her Lord and now gone to be with Him forever. Auntie Keshia was always the first go-to- person for most teachers on duty who could not make it to Church for one reason or the other. She never refused, unless

she was on duty herself in another class. She sometimes continuously worked both services because there were not enough teachers.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, you were pivotal in keeping the Ezekiel (Under – Five) class ministered to week after week during our Online Services. You were just fantastic and your presentations on point and engaging even though the children were not in front of you. What a gem? You never complained when you had to record your presentations again when it didn’t meet the technical specifications. Recordings were very difficult for all teachers and so to have to retake or re-record as we called it was something else, but you never grumbled or refused to retake. You would accept in that soft humble voice and your delivery was always better with the palpable joy with which you served your maker. Oh! Auntie Keshia.

News of your wedding was welcomed with such funfair and joy at the Sunday School

and we were there to celebrate this special occasion with you, little did we know that you’ll not be around for us to share in the joy of your First Anniversary.

Our last time together with you as a group was at the Easter Picnic and we cherish those moments so dearly. Oh! if only we had known that was our last time together with you. Oh! Auntie Keshia.

We encourage Sammy your Dearest Husband, your twin sister Tasha, your Mum and the entire Mante and Tenkorang families with the words of MH 511 stanza 5b “Though painful at present, twill cease before long; And then, O how pleasant, The conqueror’s song!”

Auntie Keshia, the children, parents and teachers of Trinity United Church Children’s Ministry say sleep well gallant soldier of the Lord till we meet again at Jesus’ feet. We love you dearly and miss you beyond words. Da yie!