My indefatigable and loving Dad; M.M Okoye exited the stage on Wednesday, March 3, 2021. To Daddy, life was music… pure and undiluted. The passion was so strong that he didn’t rest till he was able to hone his skills at the prestigious University of Nigeria (UNN), where he secured a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Education Music (1965) and went on to make such huge impact in Church Music in his heyday at All Saints Cathedral, Abakaliki and St. James, Nanka.
A dedicated teacher, educationist, retired Supervising Principal, accomplished Organist, Musician, Choir Master and Composer, Daddy loved music and made our home a theatre of sorts. “Music was his life and his life was Music… a medley of melodies”, as aptly captured by my Cousin Chyoma.
I still recount events in the past with some of his favourite musical masterpieces that he filled the home with. Was it; Who is Sylvia (Franz Schubert), Minuet in G (J.S. Bach), Minuet in G (Beethoven), Sonata in C (Mozart), Handel’s Messiah, Fur Elise (Beethoven), Jesu Joy of Man’s Desiring (J.S. Bach) etc… They each hold special memories. Even when our legs weren’t long enough to reach the pedals of that wooden organ at home, we strained to push the pedals so we could play like him.
His legacy lives on… the music lives on with the children, grand children and many more he taught and influenced. To think that he was recently honoured by the Old Boys of Oraukwu Grammar School, one of the schools where he left his mark, as if they knew he was about to leave.
His impactful career spanned various schools in the Old Anambra State; St. Mary’s Nri, St. Thomas Ebenebe & Practicing School Awka (1950-1953), St. Lawrence Ndiowu (1955-1956), St. James Central School Nanka & Anglican Grammar School Oraukwu (1959-1961), Alor High School -Vice Principal (1972-1977), Nnodo Boys High School, Abakaliki -Pioneer Principal (1977-1982), Boys Secondary School, Umuhuali, Nkalagu – Principal (1982-1985), Izzi High School, Ishieke, Abakaliki – Principal (1985-1986), State Education Commission, Abakaliki Zone – Supervising Principal/ Principal Grade 1 (1986-1987).
At 96, he was strong, unbowed, articulate, sharp-witted, vibrant and full of life. His knowledge and persona shone forth to anyone opportuned to mingle with him. Nanka indeed has lost an Icon.
Daddy, I am truly privileged to be your Son. I grew up under the tutelage of a man of purpose and high ideals. The House of M.M is a strong Nation because of your unshaken faith in Christ.
Though your peculiar, boisterous laughter rings no more, we are comforted by the knowledge that you now rest with Jesus.
Adieu Michael Momezie Okoye (Each Beat)
What a LEGEND!
This is truly a celebration of life!
Many thanks Buki
May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace in the bossom of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.
Many Thanks Joy. God Bless You
Kene, your Dad lived a fulfilled life and moreover one dedicated to the service of Christ.
My joy is that he now rest at the bosom of our Lord and saviour Jesus Christ. Amen
Byeee MM.
Many Thanks Dozie. We deeply appreciate