TRIBUTE TO MY DEAREST AUNTY BRIDGET
Auntiem, you came into my life when I was a pupil at Elelenwa Girls School, where you were a teacher. You have since been in my life, helping to nurture me, to make me who I am today. You have been in my life for nearly seventy years. The love you had for me extended to the Akwada's family and later to your eldest sister Adanne’s family, the Umehs.
Auntiem, I thank you very much for being there for me and my family. You were a second mother to me and my siblings. You took care of our mother, providing her with all she needed monthly. You paid for my sister-in-law to train as a teacher. You took care of my sister Lizzy’s wedding financially and in other ways to make her wedding day a great day to remember. You were always there for her.
When I came home for Lizzy's wedding and walked into your bedroom, there was an outfit hanging in the corner. You said to me, Rose Nwam, that outfit is for you to wear to your Sister's wedding. That was who Auntiem was, always thoughtful and very kind.
My uncle Dem Cooke, whom Auntiem also called Dem Cooke, and his family very fond of Aunty Bridget. My uncle thought the world of her and what Auntiem had achieved, particularly in education. His three daughters and my sister, Lizzy went to Holy Rosary School where Auntiem was the Principal.
Auntiem, when I got back to Nigeria from England with my husband and two children, you welcomed us into your home, which has been our home all these years.
Auntiem, when in London, you cared for my children and grandchildren, always giving them gifts. It was a great pleasure that you were my daughter’s Godmother. The love and trust that Auntiem and I had for each other was very special to us. Auntiem, trusted me that in Summer 1981 she sent her children, Ihuoma, Emeka and Nma to come to London to spend six weeks with me and my family. We all had a great time together and watched Diana, Princess of Wales and Prince Charles's wedding on 29th July 1981. We visited most of London's Landmarks and the Seaside.This trust meant a lot to me and my family. Auntiem was emotional about how well and happy they looked when they returned home. Auntiem, you will always be in my heart.
Auntiem was very intelligent and made education her one goal and priority in her life. She was very, loving, caring, kind and enjoyed giving. She enjoyed sharing whatever she had with others.
I am very happy that I had the privilege to celebrate your 85th birthday on a cruise to Guernsey, along with your nephew, Hilary and his wife, Glad.
Auntiem, your last letter to me was dated 10th January 2025. It read....
'My dearest daughter
Happy New Year with all my blessings and this gift as only a token of my love and appreciation for all you do for me.'
I will cherish this letter for the rest of my life.
Auntiem Bridget
May your soul Rest in Peace with the Lord.
Rose Mgbeke Nwam (as you always addressed me).
You will always be missed by all of us who were privileged to know you and have you in our lives.
Rose Nwosu
London, England
To my one and only Godmother . I was so proud and honoured to be your Goddaughter. You were a fierce, fearless, unstoppable force of nature. A role model to continually look up to. I can only hope and pray that I could one day shine as bright as you. I will forever cherish the conversations that we had. Heaven has gained the best of us. Love and light Aunty. Love you always,
Ada (Nwosu) xxx
London, England
To my Dearest Aunty,
You truly were a remarkable person who always had a positive influence on me.
You will be sorely missed and remembered forever.
Rest in Peaceful Sleep Always.
Love,
Okechukwu Nwosu
London, England
My Dearest Aunty, you were the most inspiring and fun person to be around. My fondest memories of spending time back home, always have you in them. You made everyone around you feel that we could achieve anything we want in life. We miss you and love you, always.
With lots of love,
Enyinnaya Nwosu
London, England
A FAREWELL MESSAGE TO MY DEAR FRIEND AND SISTER:
Today, we remember and celebrate the life of Lady Bridget Nwankwo, a truly extraordinary soul who touched so many hearts with her generosity, kindness, and unwavering support.
Lady Bridget Nwankwo had a rare gift of being there for others. She was a pillar of strength, a kind and patient listener, and a source of comfort to all who needed her. Her compassion knew no bounds, and she gave of herself wholeheartedly, always offering a shoulder to lean on and a heart wide open.
Her presence brought light and love into the lives of everyone lucky enough to know her. Whether it was through her warm smile, her thoughtful words, or her selfless acts, she left a legacy of love that will forever be cherished.
As we grieve this immense loss, we also celebrate the beauty and joy she brought into the world. We are grateful for the moments shared, the lessons learned, and the love that endures. Lady Bridget, you will always be in our hearts. Rest peacefully, knowing you were one in a million.
Christiana Achara
Honoring Aunty Bridget: A Life Well Live:
The Scottish poet Thomas Campbell once said, “To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die.” Aunty Bridget embodied this truth, leaving an enduring legacy of love, wisdom, and service that will forever live in our hearts.
We gather today to honor Lady Bridget Nwankwo, fondly known to us as Aunty Bridget. A trailblazer in education and health, she served as Commissioner of health and education in Imo State and later founded St. Bridget’s Schools in Aba. Yet, to my siblings and me, she was simply Aunty Bridget—warm, generous, and ever-caring.
From childhood visits filled with treats to receiving thoughtful gifts for our milestones, she remained a guiding presence in our lives, teaching us discipline, respect, and hard work. Her passing leaves a void, but her legacy endures.
May Aunty Bridget's soul rest in peace, and may we all find strength in this difficult time.
Ihuoma (Achara)
Celebrating the Life of Aunty Bridget Nwankwo
Today, we honor the beautiful life of Aunty Bridget Nwankwo, a woman whose kindness and love touched countless hearts. As my godmother, she held a special place in my life, and sharing a birthday with her felt like an extra blessing.
Her warmth extended beyond family, embracing everyone she met. I cherish the memory of her 90th birthday celebrated on July 21, 2024, celebrated over Zoom—a true reflection of her enduring spirit. Her thoughtful gift at my graduation remains a treasured symbol of her love.
Though she is no longer with us, her legacy of generosity and joy lives on in the lives she touched. Aunty Bridget was one of a kind, and her memory will forever shine in our hearts.
Rest peacefully, dear Aunty Bridget.
Nnennaya (Achara)
Honoring the Life of Lady Bridget Nwankwo
With a heart both heavy with sorrow and grateful for a life well lived in service to God and others, I pay tribute to the remarkable Lady Bridget Nwankwo.
Auntie Bridget was more than a dear family friend—she was a beacon of kindness, generosity, and love. The deep bond between my late father and her late beloved husband, Uncle Chris, wove our families together in a lasting friendship. I will always be thankful for the Nwankwos’ selfless hospitality, especially during the civil war when they welcomed us into their home, ensuring our safety and comfort.
I hold dear the memories of Auntie B’s weekend visits, always arriving with her signature salad and other treats, filling our home with warmth and joy.
Auntie B, you will always be cherished. Your love and kindness will live on in our hearts. Rest peacefully in God’s embrace until we meet again.
Ngozi (Achara)
Tribute to an Impactful and Generational Blessing
2 Timothy 4:7-8 (KJV)
"I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:
Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing."
Today, I honor the memory of my beloved Auntie Bridget, a true blessing across generations. Your kindness, wisdom, and unwavering love shaped individuals, families, and communities in ways that will never be forgotten. You nurtured and uplifted, leaving behind a legacy of faith, strength, and compassion that continues to inspire.
Thank you for your sacrifices. Thank you for bringing out the best in those around you. Though you are no longer with us, your impact lives on in the countless lives you touched.
Rest in peace, dear Auntie Bridget. You will always be cherished
Uche (Achara)
