Ga State begins funeral rites for Abola queenmother
The Ga State has begun the funeral rites for the Queenmother of the Abola Traditional Area, Naa Okaitsoe III, with the opening of a book of condolence yesterday in her memory.
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Naa Okaitsoe III, also known in private life as Mrs Mary Hyde-Greassli, reigned as the paramount queenmother of the Abola Traditional Area for 33 years, having been enstooled in 1991, until her passing at age 85.
The Ga Mantse, Nii Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, was the first to sign the book of condolence after which other sub-chiefs also signed to show their respects and reminisce the life of the late queenmother, renowned for her role in promoting Ga tradition and custom, advocating youth development and as a key figure in GaDangme leadership.
The Chief of Adjenkotoku, Oko Adzani Tackie-Yarboi VII, also signed the book after which he paid tribute to the memory of the queenmother.
The Head of the family, Nii Okai Turkson, paid tribute to her life and contributions.
Naa Okaitsoe III was lauded for seamlessly blending tradition with modern values and for her active role in the All Saints Anglican Church, Adabraka which earned her numerous awards in Ghana and abroad.
Oko Tackie-Yarboi said Naa Okaitsoe served as a queenmother for the entire Ga State and not only the Abola Traditional Area.
He said she left a good legacy for the Ga Traditional Area and, therefore, deserved a befitting burial and “we are ready to do that”.
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“The funeral committee will communicate to the general public the activities that will take place during the funeral ceremony”, Oko Tackie-Yarboi added.
Naa Okaitsoe’s remains will lie in state at the forecourt of the Ga Traditional Council at North Kaneshie on Friday, November 1, this year, followed by burial the following day at the same venue.
Nii Okai said a thanksgiving service would be held on Sunday, November 3, this year at the All Saints Anglican Church, Adabraka.
The family said Naa Okaitsoe’s contributions to the cultural and social fabric of the Ga people would be remembered, as she left behind a legacy of strength, dignity and service.