In Loving Memory of
Oliseka Anthony Jose
March 15, 1957 – June 4, 2025
Celebration of Life
June 20, 2025
Live Stream for the following events will commence at 10:30 AM Central Time
Please note that the live stream will pause between locations.
St. James Catholic Church, Liberty, MO
Visitation at 10:00 AM
Funeral/Memorial at 12:00 PM
Interment will be in Resurrection Cemetery in Kansas City, MO. at approximately 1:45 PM
Reception at St. James Catholic Church, Liberty, MO at 3:00 PM
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Oliseka Anthony Jose Obituary
Oliseka Anthony Jose, 68, of Kansas City, MO, passed away on Wednesday, June 4, 2025.
Oliseka was born Friday, March 15, 1957, the son of late Mr. David Joseph Okpala and late Mrs. Cecilia Mgbeze Okpala (née Obine), and hails from Aragba Ughelli North LGA of Delta State.
Oliseka attended St. George’s Grammar School in Obinomba and Government College Ughelli for his higher school. He graduated from the University of Ibadan, Nigeria in 1981 with a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture. He then earned a Master of Science in Agronomy (Crop Science) from the University of Ibadan in 1984 and was working on his PhD final dissertation before relocating to the United States with his family in 2007. In 2013, he earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Fort Hayes University in Hayes, Kansas. At the time of his passing, he was 5 months away from earning a Master of Bioinformatics from Western Governors University in Millcreek, Utah.
Oliseka married Tsoya Mary Jose (née Athekame) on Saturday, August 12, 1989, in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria.
Oliseka had various careers during his life. He previously worked as an agronomist specializing in palm oil research with Nigeria Institute for Palm Oil Research (NIFOR) and made an initial career change as a case manager after immigrating to the U.S. Most recently, he worked as a registered nurse at the Department of Veterans Affairs for the past 10 years, where he was nominated for the prestigious Daisy award which honors nurses for their extraordinary care and compassion, shortly before his passing.
Oliseka especially loved learning, teaching, singing, dancing, shopping at Ross, taking care of his patients, and gardening. He grew over 12 different crops in his backyard, including kale, corn, berries, and peppers, and enjoyed trading produce with friends and sending pictures of his harvest to his children. He was a co-founder of the African Catholic Community of Kansas and their associated choir. He often sang in the choir and would teach them new songs to incorporate in their monthly masses.
Oliseka was a sports enthusiast. As a youth and young adult, he played soccer, basketball, volleyball, lawn tennis, table tennis, badminton, and swam. He qualified for the Nigerian national soccer team Olympic trials but chose to forego the opportunity to continue his education. Prior to his passing, you could always find him on a long walk that lasted up to 8 miles, often walking 18,000 steps before noon. You could also find him late at night falling asleep on the couch while watching NBA or track & field recap videos after studying.
Oliseka was a member of St. James Catholic Church in Liberty, Missouri for over 15 years, the Knights of Columbus Catholic fraternal service organization, and African Christian Fellowship (ACF) of Kansas City.
Favorite memories of Oliseka include accompanying his then 22-year-old daughter on a cross country road trip from Memphis, TN to Los Angeles, CA when she was relocating for school, his 25th wedding anniversary trip to Las Vegas, his 66th birthday trip to Puerto Vallarta, dancing to Jerusalema with his daughters at the annual ACF picnic, showing off his garden harvest, forcing his daughters to keep up with him on his long morning walks, and sending pictures of clothes he found for them while shopping.
Remaining to cherish Oliseka’s memory are his wife, Tsoya; daughters, Ekaolise Divine Jose (25) and Ashinedu Marriet Jose (21); adopted daughter, Remaigbe Ikenoba; brothers, Charlton and Myke Jose; sisters, Marie Ishiekwene, Patricia Jose, Vero Lynn Uzoaru, Philo Ikoko, and Edith Oriri; and other family members and friends.
Visitation will be held Friday, June 20, 2025, at 10am at St. James Catholic Church in Liberty, MO. Funeral/Memorial services will be held Friday, June 20, 2025, at 12pm at St. James Catholic Church in Liberty, MO. Interment will be in Resurrection Cemetery in Kansas City, MO.
The family would like to thank everybody for their continuous support, encouragement, and prayers during this time and for the lifetime of memories that you added to both his and our lives during his lifetime.
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Little did I know about you but am an adopted brother to the family by your beloved brother Charlton José. May your soul rest in peace uncle. We will meet at the Lord’s feet. Good night uncle
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Uncle T, a Ma.n of unwavering kindness, I will always remember your unwavering kindness and love toward myself , husband and children, your memory will live on. Gone but not forgotten. We are forever grateful for your presence, your memory is a blessing to us, we will miss your warmth and love, continue to rest in peace
Jide&Helen Oguntuase
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May God bless you and grant you eternal rest 🙏
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Though his time with us was far too short, we find comfort in the promise of eternal life. He has joined the great cloud of witnesses, and we hold onto the hope of reuniting with him one day. Continue to rest in the Lord’s loving care, Sir.
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Farewell Uncle Tee as you were popularly called. It is still hard for me to believe that you have passed 💔
You were gifted not only with intelligence but with a voice that could lift hearts and stir spirits. I will always remember our days together in the choir at St. Augustine’s Catholic Church in NIFOR in the early ’90s. Those were golden days, and your presence made them brighter.
You were not just talented but kind, encouraging, always lifting others, always believing in the best in everyone around you. Whether in song or in conversation, Uncle Tee had a way of making you feel seen, heard, and inspired. You were part of my growing up and success story. I am grateful for those times and for the blessing of knowing you since 1988
Rest in perfect peace, Uncle Tony. You have run your race well. May the choirs of heaven welcome you with the same joy you gave us here on earth.
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May your gentle soul rest in perfect peace, in Jesus’ Name, Amen.
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Eternal light shine upon you (uncle “t”), may your soul and souls of all the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in peace. Amen.
The news of your death came as a shock to me.
You showed your love for God through giving your time and resources to the church throughout your life time. May God protect and keep your family united.
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Eternal rest grant unto him oh Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May the Almighty God receive his soul and comfort the family
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May the grace of God, the love of Christ, and the sweet fellowship of the Holy Spirit continue to rest and abide with you forever. May God continue to hold Aunty Mary and the girls in His arms and comfort them during this time.
With love,
Christopher & Ufuoma Akwaja
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It is still hard to believe that you are gone. The few times l met you remain etched in my memory. You truly loved God and lived His example. May God grant sis Mary and the children the fortitude to bear the loss.
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My beloved sister, I am still in shock and finding it difficult to believe that this is happening. But I am glad uncle lived a fulfilled life, and I believe God wanted him home, hence his passage. Please be strong for the children and other family members who are looking up to you. I pray our Father grant you the fortitude to bear the irreplaceable loss. Uncle T, adieu!!!
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Your demise is still a rude shock to me and to so many but we take solace in God knowing that you’re in a better place.
May your good and gentle soul rest in perfect peace in the bossom of the Lord 🙏🙌
My dear sister Mary and the children, may the Holy Spirit comfort you all and give you the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss in Jesus Name 🙏🙌
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“If you O Lord should mark our guilt Lord who would survive, but with you is found forgiveness for this we revere you” (Psalm 129).
Eternal rest grant to our brother Tony Jose and let Perpetual light shine upon him Amen. May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace Amen 🙏
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Tony and I enjoyed smooth jazz, which he began to appreciate besides Rock music sometime in 1985, after listening to a piece, specifically Bellavia by Chuck Mangione in my car. He loved that track so much that it became his favourite. Before then, his favourite music was Peter Frampton’s come alive. Though he had always listened to some jazz pieces well before then, he gradually began to like to listen to other pieces by Chuck Mangione like Maui Waui, Children of Sanchez and Feels So Good. We subsequently shared and enjoyed other pieces like Soulful Strut, Caste Your Fate to the Wind by George Benson, Skokiaan by Herb Alpert, Nite Crawler, Southern Comfort by the Crusaders, many tracks by Weather Report, Stanley Turrentine, Earl Klugh and Sadao Watanabe. These were just expressions of his love for music, which was kindled by his gift for singing and participation in Church Choir.
Tony was gifted in many ways and crowned all by his hard work, sacrificial life and love for all, always putting others first, ever trustworthy, with insightful counsel on all occasions. We spent quality time together, which benefitted and enriched our lives in many ways that people cannot understand.
Tony, I miss a brother in your departure from this earth.
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May his gentle soul rest in the bossom of the Lord🙏🙏amen. My condolences to the family 🙏🙏
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May his soul rest in peace and may God comfort his family in Jesus name Amen 🙏
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MY the good Lord grant your soul perfect rest in peace. You came saw and conquer. Your good works and legacies can attest to why we will always remember you. Rest on brother till we meet to part no more.
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Rest on in the bosom of the almighty uncle Jose. I might not have had much encounter with you but my mom speak so good of you. You will be greatly missed by everyone.
So long Sir.
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Good night and rest peacefully till we meet on the resurrection morning uncle Tee
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I hoped to meet you in person as I have felt your presence as a bossom friend of my father for so long but death snatched you to quickly.
You are loved and will forever be missed.
Rest on Uncle Tony.
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May your gentle soul rest in peace.
Farewell
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We give God Praise for Bro Tony’s life and legacy! Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints. May His soul rest in Peace till we meet to part more! Our condolences to Sister Mary and the family.
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Rest in peace uncle Anthony Jose. You lived a good life and have returned to the Lord whom you served whole heartedly. Till we meet again Adio. The Lord will take good care of your family, they will not lack and will remain united..
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Hmmm, Uncle Tee as I fondly called you. I couldn’t accept your demise and still a rude shock to see you, in a casket today. It is well. You were so kind, hospitable, caring and selfless to humanity. You were a rare gem. Your legacies will forever etched in our hearts.
Thank you for being an awesome Christian. I take solace in your beautiful memories with the fact that you are now with the Saints ✨️
Adieu Uncle Tee. Rest on peacefully.
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Keeping your family in prayer dur8ng this time and beyond. Your short time on earth will be cherished and you will be missed. Your work here is done, rest well my friend! Carinne Purnell
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May his soul restbin perfect peace. May our lord also give the entire family of Jose and Obine the strength to bear this irreplaceable loss. 🙏🏿
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So, truly OLISEKA JOSE TONY OKPALA, you are really gone?
May God Almighty, let HIS LIGHT SHINE UPON AND GRANT YOU ETERNAL REST IN JESUS NAME.
May your Soul and the souls of all the Faithful Departed rest in peace.
ADIEU! ADIEU!! ADIEU!!!
It is well, in JESUS NAME.
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May God grant the departed soul eternal rest!. God will grant the family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss. It is well my sister!
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I never had an opportunity to meet you. you but Knowing your wife sis. Mary as l call her was knowing you.. She personified the love of God in every way. I believe it was same for you. May God at this time strengthen your wife and children left behind. Rest on sir.
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Dear sister Mary and children, take heart in the Lord Jesus Christ Amen. We met at the ACF National Conference held in Baltimore MD in 2023. We clicked immediately and took pictures. We listened to our brother’s testimony on God’s intervention for him at his place of work. Sister Mary, I know we communicated few times after the conference. My beloved sister, may our God continue to comfort you and your family Amen.
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My love and prayers go out to the Jose Family ! May he rest in Perfect peace and the Lord comfort and continue to strengthen you all !
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My brother Tony, I call you my younger brother because we know’ you as a brother and Son in Athekam’s family before we knew you as an inlaw.
We love you but God love’s you most. We will miss you.
May your gentle soul continue to rest in peace Amen
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Dear Sister Tsoya Mary Jose,
We were deeply saddened to hear of the passing of your beloved husband, Uncle Jose. Please accept our heartfelt condolences.
As he is laid to rest today in the United States, we pray that the Lord Himself will comfort you, strengthen you, and surround you with His peace. May the memories you shared bring you solace, and may his soul rest in perfect peace.
You are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
With deepest sympathy,
Brother Daniel Aigbodion and Family
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Rest in peace dear uncle T. May God almighty comfort your wife and children in Jesus mighty name. We love you but God loves you more. Thank God for the life you lived.
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Farewell uncle Tee..
Its still very hard that you are gone.
God loves you more.
Rest on sweet uncle.
Adieu
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Another Angel gained by the Heavens. You lived such an exemplary life.
Rest on big bros.
You will surely be missed.
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Farewell uncle Tee..
God loves you more.
Rest on sweet uncle.
Adieu
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Mr. T. you have done your bit. You had the call of God on your life and you did not disappoint. Your life was spent serving both God and humanity and we, your friends and family say well done and farewell.
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Rest on uncle Tony
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So sad, to hear that that Tony is no more. The news of his passing hit everyone like a bolt from the blues. He was a fine gentleman with every calmness that anyone would look for in a brother.
May his beautiful Soul Rest In Peace. Amen.
Adieu, Tony.
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Our dear brother Oliseka, we are going to really miss you. You brought so much love and joy to many. Knowing you, Mary, Eka and Ashi has made our lives richer. Your bright light will shine forever. We love you! The Acha Goris family
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From Saint Philip -Neri Catholic Church Jattu in Edo State, Nigeria.
God grant eternal rest to his soul;
My condolence to his wife, children, family and parishioners of Saint James Catholic Church, Liberty Mo.
He was such a good man, and so his family.
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A gentle soul a gentle person. Real personification of a gentle giant.. May heaven welcome you to eternal rest.
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O Lord, grant Eternal Rest unto my departed dearest Brother in-Law Oliseka Anthony Joseph and let your Perpetual Light shine upon him 🙏. A Great Soul never dies. It brings us together again and again. Brother, Rest in God’s Perfect Blossom through Jesus Christ and Our Blessed Virgin Mother Mary/Saint Joseph. AAAMEN🙏…….
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May his soul rest in perfect peace and may God console his immediate family and the entire Jose family in this difficult period..
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Oliseka joined the Saints !
He is resting in PerfectPeace!
My deepest condolences to his family , children and siblings.
Keeping the family in prayers with Love ..
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May your soul rest in perfect peace and may the Lord keep a good space for you in his throne!!! May the Lord’s judgement be merciful upon you. Rest in peace dear brother In law
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As we gather not just to mourn the passing of someone we dearly loved, but to celebrate the beautiful life they lived. Though our hearts are heavy and sad they are also full—with gratitude for every moment, every memory, every laugh and lesson shared.
Let us honor him by living our lives with the same grace and compassion they showed us. May their memory continue to guide us, comfort us, and bless us with peace.
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Today we gather not just to mourn the passing of someone we dearly loved, but to celebrate the beautiful life they lived. Though our hearts are heavy, they are also full—with gratitude for every moment, every memory, every laugh and lesson shared.
Let us honor him by living our lives with the same grace and compassion they showed us. May their memory continue to guide us, comfort us, and bless us with peace.
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We miss you my brother, but God loves more and heaven has gained another Angel. Your love and work for ACF family will not be forgotten. Rest in peace.
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Words cannot express my sadness at the loss of such great soul. In times of trials and challenge, grief and loss, we are called to lift our eyes to God, for he is our help, our hope, and our strength.
Rest well in the bosom of the Lord, Uncle Tony!
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I still remembered the first time we met in Kansas City. You were a kind,calm and lovely person.
May your beautiful soul rest in perfect peace. Amen.
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Fond memories of you will always be your commitment to the St Augustine chior, NIFOR as chior master , when there were no sofisticated equipments., you made it work and made mass fun. You were always very soft spoken.
Going through your biography has been inspiring, your hard work, dedication and commitment to everything you set out to do.
Rest in peace Uncle Tee
. Amen
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Uncle Tee, as we fondly called him was not only a beloved uncle but also my Godfather. I have so many cherished memories of his visits, he always brought joy and laughter with him.
His sense of humor was unforgettable, and he had a way of making every moment feel lighter and more fun. One memory that always brings a smile is his fondness for the head of the fish, it was his favorite, and we all knew to save it for him.
Uncle Tee, your warmth and presence will be deeply missed but we are comforted knowing you are now among the angels, singing joyfully with the choirs of heaven.
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Uncle T, it is difficult to accept that you are no longer with us. Though your journey on this earth has come to an end, your presence lives on in the life you lived and in the hearts you touched. Farewell, and may your soul find peace in the loving embrace of our Lord.
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This pain is deep, the hurt intense, hearts broken with grief-laddened emotions. But in total submission to God, we pray for the peaceful repose of your soul.
As you are committed to Mother Earth today, go well, be at peace, soar on angels wings as you bask in heaven’s eternal bliss.
Yours was a life well lived and I pray your good deeds while on Earth light your path as the angels guide you home to God’s abode. Out of sight wouldn’t be out of mind, for we take solace in cherished memories and are consoled by the fact that you have gone home to your maker.
You were indeed God’s ideal man.
Rest easy and in calm peace Sir Jose.
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Finally, the reality of your demise has set in! Rest in Peace Uncle T.
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Dear Uncle “T”, it is still like a dream that you have been called home by our loving Father. You were an embodiment of love, joy, kindness, peace and always ready to make sacrifices to ensure that others are happy. You were an extremely good person and my family cherishes the wonderful relationship we had with you. God must have had a very important assignment for you beyond. Dear brother, rest peacefully with the Saints in the bosom of our Lord. I don’t know if the pain of your demise will ever diminish because you will be forever missed.
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TRIBUTE TO UNCLE TEE.
Dear Uncle Tee,
We are pained in our hearts, but trusting God for his decision.
Never was it known that you will depart this world in this manner, and at this time.
We appreciate your ever wise cancelling, words of encouragement, positive thoughts, and supportive nature in every area of life.
Your inspiration on us will never leave us. No one can fill that vacuum your death has created, and I am grateful to God for knowing you.
Rest on, Uncle Tee, rest on till we meet to path no more.
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Tony, it is hard to stop the script that started playing in my mind since you transitioned to Glory. The script encapsulates all the good time we had hanging out in your apartment at NIFOR. Your goodness at heart makes a positive impression on anyone that meets you.. My consolation is that by the grace of Jesus Christ, we will meet again.
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Late oliseka – a rare gem. I am still in shock since the news of your death was revealed to me. It is hard to believe and unacceptable to accept that you are no more. O’God, what is the purpose of life, but I later realised that it’s appointed unto man once to die for salvation. So, as God shows Himself to good men, they die and transit to the bosom of the Lord. Auntie Mary, Please do not mourn like the heathen – your late husband devoted his life to serving God, and humanity. He is with God who made the heaven and earth.
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May the good Lord accept his dear soul and grant him eternity, AMEN! 🙏 May He console Sis Mary and his children at this trying time, AMEN!!🙏🙏 Our prayers are with you
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May his Gentle soul rest in Perfect Peace.
Amen
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If Tony had lived for another 15- 20 years, that would have been a perfect way to go…
It’s well with the families and friends he left behind.
It was a great privilege to have known and worked as Scientists with Tony at NIFOR.
From 1982- 2007.
We were still in touch when our respective families relocated to the US
In fact we spoke about 2 or so weeks before I heard the shocking news of his passing on to glory.
May his soul rest in peace
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It is hard to believe that you are gone. Thank you for being an amazing father and guide. May God rest your soul and grant everyone divine consolation Amen.
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Our heart felt condolences to the Jose Okpala family. May Tony’s gentle soul rest in peace. 🪦🙏.
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Oliseka was a gentle man, a Godly man. His quiet, yet strong demeaner, commanded respect from all he encountered. He was a man who showed respect and received respect. It was an honor for me to have worked with Oliseka at the KCMO VA Medical Center. His presence will be greatly missed. Oliseka, may you rest in blessed peace, in the arms of our mighty and loving God. To the family of Oliseka, I offer you, my most heartfelt condolences. I pray our Father will continue to cover you in His love, blessings and protection. May He restore your joy, and grant you comfort and peace. God bless you.
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This still feels like a dream. But we cannot question God. Rest in Peace our beloved Uncle T.
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Uncle, your passing was sudden. Still find it hard to believe you are no longer on this side of the divide. Your devotion to Aunty and the girls is memorable. Till we meet at Jesus feet, rest on sir!
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All glory and honor to our God for the life of brother Anthony Jose. May the Lord’s presence continue to reign in the family in Jesus name, amen. Christ’s presence always.
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Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul and the souls of the faithful departed rest in peace. Amen.
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Tony, rest in peace with the Lord.
Don’t stop praying for the family you left behind wherever you are.
Good bye my in-law
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We will all miss you Uncle T! The tallest uncle I have ever had. Rest in perfect peace in God’s presence 🙏
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You were a light in our lives—steady, warm, and constant. The kind of presence that made everything feel okay, even when life felt uncertain. Your laughter brought joy to our gatherings. Your advice carried wisdom beyond words. Your care was genuine, never forced, and always felt.
You loved quietly but deeply. You gave without keeping count. You stood by us in both our victories and our storms. And even though you’re no longer with us in this physical world, your love, your values, and your legacy will live on in each of us.
There are so many things I wish I had said to you. So many more moments I thought we’d share. But even though our time together has been cut short, I thank God for every memory, every hug, every lesson, and every smile.
As we say goodbye, we carry you with us—in our hearts, in our stories, and in how we choose to live going forward. You may be gone from our sight, but never from our lives. You will forever be remembered, cherished, and missed beyond words.
Rest in peace, dear uncle Tee. Thank you for being ours.
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T
My sincere condolences to the entire family.
This sad event came as a rude shock to us all.
Who are we to question God.
May God in his infinite Goodness continue to console you all especially His beloved wife and Children. Amen.
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Uncle Tee’s demise came as a rude shock to us. We never expected it but God knows why it happened. He was a big brother to is as both families have been together for decades. We thank him for all he did for us. May he rest in peace. Amen!
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My big Brother. It was so disheartening to hear that you have left us, at a time that we the Okpala family needed you most.
You saw the importance of “unity” in a family and you decided to bring us together in peace and harmony, you assisted those in need financially and made sure dialogue and differences were settled amicably.
You will forever be remembered as a man of peace and unity.
What you have laid down and the prints you scribbled will be followed, we will always remember you on all your good will and aspirations for the family.
May God grant you eternal rest. Amen and Amen
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Oliseka may you rest in the bosom of the Almighty God 🙏
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May your gentle soul rest in peace. We bless God for your short but very impactful life.
To the Okpala-Jose family, may God grant you the fortitude to bear this loss.
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I am forever grateful for all you did for me as a young businessman, your transferred your business line to me at the point of your relocation from Nigeria.
At the point when we lost our dad, you gave us all the support your could, you became our support system.
Thanks for all you made possible.
All i can wish you right now is a merciful judgment and enteral rest in God’s bosom.
Rest in peace Uncle Tee.
we love and miss you.
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Tony, it is hard to believe that this is your funeral. We are all heartbroken but are comforted that you lived a life of purpose, for your family, friends and associates. We lost a precious and true member of our family. Rest in the bosom of the Lord, Uncle T
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Mr.Tee. when Charlton woke me up and informed me of your passing, I was in denial.. When the reality hit me , I wept. I sat back and reminisced about your struggles, your aspirations and your drive to always be the best you can.. I reflected on your love for God and for family and friends.
Tony, you were indeed a great man.You were self effacing; You were self sacrificing..You always looked out for the good of others.
You touched so many lives in so many positive ways and departing , you have left giant footprints on the sands of time.
Adieu my friend, my brother in-law par excellence.
Chisonum Ikoko
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Mr.Tee. when Charlton woke me up and informed me of your passing, I was in denial.. When the reality hit me , I wept. I sat back and reminisced about your struggles, your aspirations and your drive to always be the best you can.. I reflected on your love for God and for family and friends.
Tony, you were indeed a great man.You were self effacing; You were self sacrificing..You always looked out for the good of others.
You touched so many lives in so many positive ways and departing , you have left giant footprints on the sands of time.
Adieu my friend, my brother in-law par excellence.
Chisonum Ikoko
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Praying for strength and God’s comfort for my dear Mary and the Jose Family during this difficult time.
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Life is a mystery that is only known to God. Rest in peace, our friend and Brother. It is well!
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MAY HIS SOUL REST IN PEACE. AMEN
FOR HIS FAMILY HE LEFT BEHIND, GOD WILL CONSOLE AND PROTECT THEM. AMEN 🙏
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Tony you left us so soon. But God knows the best. Your memory live with us for a very long time.
My brother rest in peace until we meet on the other side
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May the soul of Jose and the souls of all the faithful departed rest in peace.
Nose will be greatly missed by those he touched and came across briefly like me as our brief meeting was very impactful.
May the immediate family espcially the wife Mary take consolation in the word of God that life is transient. RIP.
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Rest on for your memories will always be with us .Good night 😥😢😢
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My dearest Eka and family,
Please accept my deepest condolences. I am praying for you all.
I remember meeting Mr. Jose when he met Eka in Memphis and I remember the three of us praying in my living room before they went on their journey. In a few minutes I can see his beautiful heart! He was such a kind, humble, and well-educated man. Now I know where Eka gets it from! I love you all.
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A Tribute to uncle T.It still seems like a dream to all of ùs……WE all still cannot come to terms with the reality that you are no more. Although you weren’t here for long, you left us all with great memories. I and some of my siblings had a singing section sometime last year,it got to a point that your memory flashed back when we sang a particular hymn that required a “Baseband we all screamed”Uncle T”.that’s how much you where loved and cherished..we loved you,but God loves you best.Adieu uncle T,u till we meet to part no more.the Iyere’s
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Big Uncle as I fondly call you, this is truly heartbreaking and really difficult to process, your demise has brought me to reality. But we take solace in the lord. That will meet again at the feet of Jesus. May your soul find rest in the lord.
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May his soul find rest in the lord.
Like I have always say to you my big sister, it’s well with you God almighty will continue to hold you and the children with his right hand as the days go by ijn Amen. It’s well, it’s well. I will miss his words of encouragement and love towards my family.
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We the entire family of Monday Ojumah at Obiaruku condole the entire family of Okpala for the departure of are great Uncle Tony, accept our condolence as we continue to pray that the God we serve is the strength to all Uncle Tony descendants and we also appreciate all and sundry that contributed to the success of this burial ceremony. Finally, may his gentle soul rest in respect peace.
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It’s been sad for me to hear that you are good never believe that the first time we melet is going to be the last time we see. . Just can’t believe it but, God knows bless. May you rest in peace. Uncle.
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Your death came as a shock. Uncle T, your journey on this earth has ended but the impact will forever last a lifetime. May you find eternal peace
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Words fail me to express my sadness & shock at your sudden passing.
You were much admired for your gentleness, patience, passion for excellence and unwavering commitment to the things of God & His Church.
We can only pray that God, who comforted & strengthened Job, will do same for your dear wife & children; through the intercession of Our Lady, Mother of sorrows.
May the BVM, Help of Christians, intercede for you with our Lord. And may the angels lead you into paradise to take your place among the choirs of heaven.
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I did not know him for too long. When his wife, Mary introduced him to me, our conversation was easy as we spoke of my family member he knew in Warri. We spoke about sports in Nigeria in the 70s and early 80s. I was looking forward to catching up again during the next African Christian Fellowship (ACF) National conference in St. Louis during
July 4th holiday. God knows best.
May our Almighty God grant him eternal rest and continue to comfort his family and be their peace.
@
Here is to the fruitful life of a peaceful,jovial family man late Mr Anthony Jose who loved God with passion.
The passing was not well made but God knows the best.
Sleep on beloved until the resurrection morning when we shall meet to part no more.
God have mercy on him and grant soul eternal rest in Heaven.Amen
We miss him greatly.
@
A Tribute to Our Uncle Tee
Losing Uncle Tee came as a shock—one we are still trying to come to terms with. It feels unreal to speak of him in the past tense, because to us, he was full of life, light, and laughter.
We will miss his words of wisdom and encouragement. His absence is deeply felt, but so is the impact of his love and legacy.
Rest on, Uncle Tee. You were truly one of a kind.
@
I have been too numb to think of in the past and no longer in the present. Too numb to speak. But, turns out; it is what it is.
You were a brother indeed! Rest well big brother, Rest well.
Goodnight bro!
@
You’ve never just been my cousin,you’ve always been so much more. You were my protector when life felt too big, my cheerleader when I doubted myself, You filled the space of a brother with so much love, strength, and presence.Your words carried weight, your actions carried love, and your heart carried all of us.
I still can’t believe you’re gone. I still reach for my phone to call you, still hear your laugh in my head. You were supposed to be here longer. But even in this pain, I’m grateful for the memories, the bond, and the love that death can’t erase.
May your soul rest in perfect peace.
Amen
@
It is well, May Daddy’s gentle soul rest in perfect peace, and may God’s comfort surround us today and always.
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You were so loved at the Kansas City VA, by your veterans and your friends and coworkers. My heart is broken you are gone but your memories live in the halls of our unit and remain in our hearts. I know you are with Jesus and watching over all of us. You were always caring about all of us from your listening ears to your prayer texts to your work family. Until we meet again my friend, rest in peace.
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Highly dedicated and a great achiever of no mean standing!
His legacies will be memorably remembered.
May the Good Lord grant him eternal rest and give the entire family the strength and fortitude to pull through at this trying period
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Great family friend Anthony is regarded as a big brother. First son of my parents age long family friends. Saw him last when I was a teenager. I remember he was so tall, friendly and forever smiling and ofcourse dark, handsome and soft spoken. He had this air of gentle kindness. Ofcourse life drifted every one apart and it was so sad to hear of his demise. RIP BRO. OH COMPASSIONATE LORD JESUS, GRANT HIM REST,AMEN..
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THE PASSING AWAY OF AN EVER-BELOVED BROTHER AND PRIMORDIAL FRIEND: MR. OKPALA, OLISEKA JOSE TONY.
The least unexpected news of the demise of my Ever-beloved Brother and Primordial friend reached me in the early hours of Thursday, 5th June, 2025, with a Thunderbolt that kept me whirling in Vertigo. It was unbelievable and disheartening bcos we scheduled to have a discussion that very Weekend. I was completely devastated and disoriented for a good while.
Tonnie, as I am used to calling him, was too kind to a fault. He was humble, always beaming with smiles, absolutely and wholly benevolent; we traded so much confidence between us that, his death was never fathomed to be so closed/near.
It was his subtle smiles and persuasion that caused me to play football matches for Tafawa Balewa Hall – PG Hall, University of Ibadan (UI) IN 1984 – along side with then Mr. Prince Unekwe , now a Professor of Pharmacology, Federal University of Sokoto, Sokoto State, Nigeria. Mr. Tonnie, was our Goalkeeper
Mr. Tonnie Jose OLISEKA, was an epitome of Brotherhood and Friendship. Between us, was the “Bond of Prince Jonathan and David”. I am still at a loss concerning his untimely exit from this world. I still could not comprehend this death of his.
HABA! Tonnie, GONE SO SOON? You went over there on your own accord but did not return to us ; why?
God Almighty, however, knows why?
We can not grudge God Almighty; for HE GIVETH and HE TAKETH.
May his Soul And the Souls of all the Faithful Departed, through the Mercy of God rest in peace. May HE also grant us all the requisite fortitude to bear this irreparable loss, IN JESUS NAME.
ADIEU! ADIEU!! ADIEU!!!
Dr. Francis Onome & Mrs. Joyce Ogheneochuko OTOBO And Ever-beloved family.
@
While still struggling to get over my situation, the shock of your demise came.
My dear brother Tee, the vacuum you have created in the David Jose family can only be filled by God Almighty and i know that He will never fail us.
I and my children cherish the memories we shared during your short stay on earth. We pray that God Almighty continue to grant you merciful judgement and those of us you left behind, the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.
REST IN PERFECT PEACE BELOVED BROTHER.
@
Rest in peace my dear, dear brother-in-law. Rest in peace my sister Mary’s childhood sweetheart and beloved soulmate ❤️. The best brother-in-law one could ever wish for. Go well into the peace of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, for we take solace in the sure hope that you are with the Saints and that we shall meet again, rejoicing at our Lord and Saviour’s feet. For you loved greatly, you are greatly loved and are greatly missed.
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May your gentle soul rest in peace, sir.
May God’s perpetual light keep shining upon you and May you join the choirs of angels in heaven where music you love never ends.
Rest in peace, sir.
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I my beloved brother it is so painful to know you have go e to be with the Lord. Words cannot express your who you cruelly are and our loss butthegood Lord loved you more. Rest on man of peace .you created a vacuum that cannot be replaced.. Rest in peace in the blossom of the LORD. Adieu Tony my brother
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Uncle Tee as We fondly call you. The news of your death hit hard.
You shapened my life as a Youth. You were my Choirmaster, and always encouraged us in praising God. Your best song in your dialect you taught me over 23 years is still on my lips… Chukwu nalu bene bene oooo, elishine yenu muyeka bene oooo…
Keep singing with the Angels.
Keep watching over your lovely Wife and beautiful Daughters you were so proud of.
God rest your soul Amen
@
May your gentle soul rest in perfect peace, in Jesus’ Name, Amen. Nio
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Uncle Jose you’re very welcoming and kind. A quiet and gentle soul. We were so inspired when we heard about your career switch and are privileged to have known you. We are thankful for all the many ways you loved God, your family and others. Thanks for being an example of steadfastness, a gentle spirit and faith.
May your soul rest in perfect peace. We pray for continued comfort and peace to Aunt Mary and the family.
@
You could tell Uncle Oliseka had a gentle soul from the moment you met him. I always enjoyed our conversations and it was heart warming to see him dance to Jerusalema with all the kids and youths at ACF. He truly loved Jesus and represented Christ in the best way possible.
May his gentle soul rest in peace, knowing he lived a good life and was deeply loved by his family and friends in Jesus Name, Amen.
@
Uncle Tee was so kind, so wonderful and full of life. His memories will surely live in the hearts of those that knew and loved him. May God comfort the entire family and give them peace in this painful time.
May your gentle and kind soul rest in perfect peace, amen!
@
Our big brother, words fail us as we pen this words down. We will hold onto the beautiful memories we have of you. We are assured that you are resting in the bosom of the Lord and watching over your lovely wife and beautiful children. Till we meet to part no more, rest in perfect peace. Mr Sunny &Dr. Stella Idehen and The entire Akhidime Family.
@
May his gentle soul rest well. May condolence to the family
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Brother Tony
I can’t believe I am saying goodbye forever before saying ” nice to see you again,” but God knows best. Goodbye an awesome husband, great father and a wonderful, giving soul. Tony you were a joy to all who had the opportunity of knowing you. Rest on brother till we all meet to part no more.
@
A quiet, peaceful and generous soul. Lover of God.
The few times I visited their home at Benin city were pleasant.
You will be missed.
May the Lord grant you eternal rest.
I pray for Aunty Mary, your daughters that they will be comforted..
May your soul rest in peace Amen
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A quiet gentle soul.
I pray your soul rest in peace.
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From Government College Ughelli Nigeria to Kansas City, Tony had been consistent…a lover of God and all that is godly; one with a huge appetite for adventure and academic advancement; a believer in a disciplined, and almost childlike enjoyment of the simple things that life offers; and one patient with both life and family..
How could anyone believe that life would end in this dramatic fashion when we were mostly unprepared.
Just like to thank Mary and the children for the unfailing and supportive love shown to their husband and father over the years. May Tony’s God bless, protect and provide for you in his absence.
May God forgive Tony. Show him mercy. And grant him everlasting life in his new home.
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It is well, May is soul rest in peace i meet him once when him and his wife hosts us for ACF conference in Kansas city his a lovely person we will miss you always rip in peace brother. From Madison Wisconsin.
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TRIBUTE FROM Dr. & Mrs. Charles I AISAGBONHI
Toni worked as a staff of NIFOR together with us, in the 80’s before he left us and relocated with his family to the US.
We lived together as close Neighbours in NIFOR, where each family looked after the welfare of each other.
Toni and our late brother, Dr. Fred. Orighoye Appiah, both initiated and kick started the NIFOR Palm Spring Multiputpose cooperative society, which enabled participating members of staff, embark on meaningful family projects, like vehicle purchases and housing projects.
We also remember him as a notable research officer who was granted the International Foundation for Science Research grant (IFS). He intercropped Food crops with Oil palm trees and Nitrogen fixing Leguminous trees at various spacings, in his experimental trials in NIFOR Fields.
The “masses”, will remember him as the farmer who made cassava tubers readily available and affordable to them as one of their important staple food in their diets.
He helped build up the St Augustine Catholic church choir, as a very enthusiastic choir master,
teaching the choir such songs
as ” My hope is built on nothing less
(On Christ the solid Rock I stand)”,
“Hail Queen of Heaven”
in the various tones or parts; and several other Hymns, in St.Augustine Catholic church, NIFOR.
He who sings to praise, worship and glorify God, prays twice, as one of our notable adage reminds us. We are thus consoled that God has accepted his soul in heaven.
We miss him. We all feel his departure from us. May God console his darling wife, Tsoya; his children Eka and Achinedu. May his soul rest in Peace in Jesus Christ’s bosom. AMEN
@
Tony was a colleague at the Nigerian Institute for Oil Palm Research (NIFOR) in Benin in the 80s and early 90s. We were all friends then and lived like a family of young researchers in the Institute.
He was a very empathetic person. He drove alone all the way from Benin to Enugwu- Ukwu to attend my mother’s funeral in 1992 despite the fact that I had left NIFOR at the time.
We attended the same Catholic Church in NIFOR and he was the Head of the Choir at a time, leading them to win many laurels at choir competitions within and outside the State. I am not surprised he continued with this in the US.
Tony and his lovely wife Mary, took charge of my son Chimaobi, as soon as he came to the US some years ago. They made him a member of their family and became his father and mother there, continously checking on him and counselling him.
That Tony was a kind and compassionate person is an understatement, for want of more appropriate words. His passing was like a thunderbolt for everyone that knew him.
He built a warm loving family that one does not know how to console, for the pain of the loss of such a man must be indescribable. It is only God that can console them, and we pray Him to cover them with his healing grace and fortify them with the strength to continue. May God grant Tony, eternal rest. May he rest in peace. Amen.
@
Uncle T. is what we fondly call you. This is truly heartbreaking and difficult to process. But we take solace to the fact that you were a dedicated child of God and hence will be in the heavenly mansion our Lord Jesus promised.
May Almighty God comfort your beloved family you left behind.
@
Tannie,
The news of your demise took me down like a storm.I never had a chance to tell you goodbye.May the Lord receive you ,grant you eternal rest and confort the family you left behind..It is well.
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It is well, may his soul rest in peace. May Almighty God comfort the entire family.
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Late Mr. Toni Okpala-Jose was a good man. I got to know Uncle T when I joined the services of the Nigerian Institute for Oil Palm Research in 1990 as a young Research Officer in Training and haven been posted to Agronomy Division
He was very friendly and guided me along with some of his colleagues then, to becoming a thorough bred Scientist I am today. I remain very grateful for his contributions till date..
May his gentle soul fiñd Peace with God.
Amen.
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Uncle Tony, I still find it difficult to believe you have left us. Just in January you called to comfort me on the loss of my mum and brother last November and supported us for the burials. You were my godfather for the sacrament of confirmation at NIFOR and I always admired your dedication to God especially singing in the choir of St Augustine Catholic Church NIFOR. The tallest man in the Church . It is not how long one lives that matters but the impact made. We celebrate your life Uncle T. Your legacies live on. Rest peacefully with the Lord whom you served with all your heart. Adio uncle Tony
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Anthony Okpala ( as he was then known) was a classmate at Government College, Ughelli, Delta State. We both proceeded to the University of Ibadan thereafter, for our undergraduate studies. We lost touch after he left NIFOR for the US.
Tony was such a sweet soul. May his soul and the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Adieu Tony!!
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We were neighbors at the Nigerian Institute for Oil Palm Research. Our families were closely related and we knew him as uncle T.
Uncle T was a hardworking Scientist and a Community oriented individual who laboured not only for himself but for everybody. We was one of the first to report at work. In the early mornings, he manages his experiments and resumes at the office to manage the affairs of our cooperative society, which he jointly founded with a few others. He also had a piggery outside the NIFOR campus where he spends time on a daily basis. His days were usually fully booked and had no time for cheap talks. He liked investments and whatever will add value to peoples lives. He stood for the truth at all times and was very protective of his friends.
His relocation from NIFOR to the U.S. was painful for his friends, but meeting him during his visits to Nigeria was a consolation.
The news of his death came with rude shock. It was too early for him because knowing him, he had a tonne of contributions ear marked for implementation. It is a sad moment for me and my family as his memories are the remains for us to treasure.
Uncle T, we know you are in a better place because you loved those around you and loved your God with all your heart, soul and body. May the Lord grant eternal rest to your soul, Amen.
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Glory be to God for living to put smile on the faces of all the people you come across. May God comfort your family and the church of God in Jesus name.
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In Memory of Late Tony Jose
I, Dr Mrs Esohe Ilori (Nee Uwumarongie), pay tribute to Late Tony Jose, a distinguished agronomist whose invaluable contributions to the Nigerian Institute for Oil Palm Research (NIFOR) greatly advanced the field of agricultural science. His deep expertise, commitment to excellence, and tireless dedication to research significantly enriched the institute’s work and left an enduring mark on the oil palm industry in Nigeria.
Beyond his professional achievements, Mr. Jose was a man of integrity, humility, and profound kindness. As a close family friend, he brought warmth, wisdom, and genuine friendship into our lives. His counsel, encouragement, and unwavering support will always be remembered and cherished.
Though he is no longer with us, his legacy lives on through the many lives he touched and the body of work he laves behind. We honor his memory with deep respect and gratitude.
@
Words fail me! Was previledged to share in the Joy of your wedding in 1989.
My consolation is that Tony touched lives and served God rejoicefully.
Mary, stay strong for we cannot question God’s authority, may the Holy Spirit comfort and console the entire family, Amen
Sleep well great man, until the resurrection morning when we shall meet to part no more..