By Samuel Olamide Osifuye
A solemn atmosphere filled the sanctuary of Christ Apostolic Church, Oke-Ibukun, Adekitan District Headquarters, Lagos, on Sunday, June 1, 2025, as friends, family, and church members gathered to celebrate the life and legacy of the late Deaconess Elizabeth Mosunmola Ilori.
The heartfelt commendation service honored the devoted matriarch, who was also the mother of the church’s Choir Master and Organist, Brother Olaniyi Ilori (FCA).
The well-attended event, held at the church's District Headquarters in Mushin, Lagos State, drew notable guests including the District Superintendent, Pastor J.O. Oyepetun; Pastor Testimony Adekola; English Assembly Pastor, Pastor C.D. Revelations; Pastor Julius Elufadeju; Representatives of CAC Akinyele Regional Choir; Music Director of CAC Adekitan, Elder Michael Aladejebi; and the Choir & Orchestra of CAC Macauley, among others.
Guests were uplifted by powerful hymns and soul-stirring musical renditions from the choir, setting the tone for a memorable service of songs and tributes.
In a sermon titled “The Needle Woman”, drawn from Acts 9:36, the District Superintendent of Adekitan District, Pastor J. Ola Oyepetun likened the late Deaconess to the biblical Dorcas, known for her acts of kindness and service.
“Like Dorcas of the Bible, there was no record of her good deeds until her death,” Pastor Oyepetun remarked. “So is the case of Mama, who sewed garments of love and care to cover the shame of anyone that crossed her path. She positively affected numerous lives silently. Many testimonies have been shared since her passing. Her legacy speaks louder now than ever before.”
He encouraged the congregation to examine their own lives and the quality of their Christian walk. Referencing the book of James, he charged against inactive faith:
“Faith without work is dead. If not for the position she held in church, it’s possible no one would have known her, but she was quietly doing good. Your works will find you out when you die.”
He concluded with a powerful exhortation: “Just as Dorcas, Mama used the grace, talents, and gifts she was given for the service of God and humanity. Let us all do likewise.”
Testimonies flowed from neighbors, friends, church members, and family, all painting a picture of a humble woman who lived for Christ and others. Speaker after speaker described Mama Ilori as “a giver” and “a lover of Christ.” Her eldest son, Brother Olaniyi Ilori, who is also the Treasurer of CAC Akinyele Regional Choir, was visibly moved to tears, overcome by the deep expressions of love and respect shared in honor of his mother.
In his vote of thanks, he expressed heartfelt appreciation to the church and attendees. Speaking further, “the passing of my mom was like a reality check for me about life, how one can transit from life to death within a few minutes,” he said. “Thank you to everyone who has stood by our family.”
Born on August 20, 1946, in Imesi-Ile, Osun State, Deaconess Ilori hailed from the royal Fatoye and Oladele families. She began her career in healthcare before training as a teacher. Her academic credentials included an Associate Certificate in Education from the University of Ibadan and an NCE from the National Teachers Institute (NTI).
Over a 35-year teaching career, she taught in several primary schools across Oyo and Lagos States, eventually serving as Head Teacher in multiple schools before retiring in 2009. She was known for her nurturing spirit, both in the classroom and at home, where she became a mother figure to many.
A devout Christian and long-standing member of Christ Apostolic Church, Adekitan, she was ordained a Deaconess in 1990. She held several leadership positions, including President of the Ina-Oloruntan Society and Patroness of the Church Choir. She was also one of the founding members of the church’s marriage committee.
Outside of her Christian commitments, Mama Ilori was an avid football and wrestling fan—fiercely loyal to Chelsea FC—and a founding member of the Imesi-Ile Women Association (IWA).
She passed away peacefully on April 5, 2025. She is survived by her children, grandchildren, siblings, and extended family. Her life remains a shining example of service, humility, and unwavering faith.
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