Very Rev. Fr. Dr. Donatus Ogumka Okpokpo

A candle lit for Rev. Fr. Donatus Okpokpo.

A candle lit for Rev. Fr. Donatus Okpokpo.

A candle lit for Rev. Fr. Donatus Okpokpo.

*Tribute to My Dear Uncle, Rev. Fr. Donatus Okpokpo Today we bid farewell to my beloved maternal uncle, Rev. Fr.Donatus Okpokpo You were not just a priest to us, but a father, a teacher, and a light in our family. You served God with all your heart, with humility, love, and unwavering faith. Your homilies, your prayers, your laughter, and your counsel will forever remain in our hearts. Though you have gone to be with the Lord you served so faithfully, your legacy of faith and goodness lives on. Rest in perfect peace, Rev .Fr. Until we meet again. We love you, but God loves you more. Kekem Ezegbe Children from Ahaba .

A candle lit for Rev. Fr. Donatus Okpokpo.

*IN LOVING MEMORY OF MY GODFATHER, MY FATHER, MY FORMATOR* *VERY REV. FR. DONATUS OGUMKA OKPOKPO* *A Priest Who Took Mary Home* If I stand here today as a Priest, it is because this man first stood as a father for me. From JSS 2, Rev. Fr. Donatus Ogumka Okpokpo did not just take me as a Godson, he took me as his son. He housed me, formed me, disciplined me, and raised me in his rectory until by God's grace, I became a Priest. What I am today, is his harvest. *Who was Fr. Donatus?* *1. A True Adorer of Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament.* Every day of his priestly life, without fail, he spent ONE HOUR in adoration before the Blessed Sacrament before Mass. We his boys knew - no one disturbs Father during his hour with Jesus. He taught us that priesthood is not activity, but intimacy with the Eucharistic Lord. *2. A Son and Lover of the Blessed Virgin Mary.* He was not just a lover in words, he was an author of her love. He wrote the book *"TAKE MOTHER MARY HOME"* - and truly, he took Mother Mary home, into his heart, into his room, into his parish, and into all of us. He lived the Gospel: _"Behold your Mother." (John 19:27)_ *3. A Man of Peace and Lover of Children.

A candle lit for Rev. Fr. Donatus Okpokpo.

Fr. Don Okpokpo was a pillar to our family and to the thousands of people whose lives he touched. He was a man whose presence brought comfort, whose generosity knew few limits, and whose life was a true reflection of his calling. He lived his oath. He was always willing to give and would gladly give the cloth on his back to someone who had none. His kindness was not simply something he spoke about; it was something he lived every day. He gave of his time, his resources, his wisdom and, most importantly, himself to others. On many occasions, in the most unexpected places, the mere mention of Fr. Okpokpo's name would bring smiles, stories and fond memories. It was always remarkable to discover how far his influence had reached. That, perhaps, is one of the greatest testaments to the life he lived. Fr. Okpokpo did not simply pass through people's lives. He left something behind in them. Father has now left us with a legacy, a legacy of kindness, generosity, faith and service to our fellow man. Fr. Don Okpokpo has completed his earthly journey, but the good he planted in the lives of others will continue to live on. May his soul rest in perfect peace. Amen.

A candle lit for Rev. Fr. Donatus Okpokpo.

Tribute to My Uncle Rev. Father Donatus was a true man of God, a kind and loving soul, and a wonderful person. His faith, humility, and love for others were evident in the way he lived and served God. I am grateful to have known such a beautiful soul. You will be deeply missed, but your memories will forever remain in our hearts. May your gentle soul rest in perfect peace. Amen.

A candle lit for Rev. Fr. Donatus Okpokpo.

Tribute to Rev. Father Donatus Rev. Father Donatus was a caring man who loved everyone, especially his family and those close to him. He loved so deeply and cared genuinely for the people around him. I am grateful for the life he lived here on earth and for the impact he had on the lives of many people. He touched so many lives in his own special way, and I am grateful to have had him as my brother. I will miss him so much. He was someone who was so welcoming and loving. The last time we saw, we embraced ourselves, and that moment will always remain special to me. As his sister, I can say that he impacted my life in so many ways. He was a big part of our family, and he helped to keep us united. His love for his family brought us together in many ways. Rev. Father Donatus, I am grateful for your life, your love, your kindness, and the memories you left with us. You will always be remembered and deeply missed. Rest in peace, my dear brother.

A candle lit for Rev. Fr. Donatus Okpokpo.

Tribute to My Beloved Uncle, Rev Father, Dee Power as i fondly call you, i honour and celebrate the life you lived as a truly remarkable man, my beloved uncle and a devoted servant of God. Your life was dedicated to serving God and His people. Through your ministry, kindness, wisdom, prayers, and compassion, you touched many lives and brought hope, comfort, and guidance to those around you. You were more than a spiritual leader as an uncle. You were a source of love, encouragement, and wisdom to our family. Although your passing has left us with emptiness in our hearts, we are grateful for beautiful memories you left behind. Even though your eartly journey has come to an end, your good works, your prayers, and lives touched by you will continue to speak for you. Dee power, my dearest uncle you will be greatly missed. Rest

A candle lit for Rev. Fr. Donatus Okpokpo.

A candle lit for Rev. Fr. Donatus Okpokpo.

TRIBUTE TO REV. FATHER DONATUS OKPOKPO The Pioneer Set of ’92 of Our Lady of Mercy Primary School, Umuahia, mourns with deep sadness the passing of Rev. Father Donatus Okpokpo, who was the parish priest of St. Finbarr’s Church during our primary school years. Father Okpokpo was a significant part of our childhood memories. As pupils of Our Lady of Mercy Primary School, we attended Masses and participated in various activities and events at St. Finbarr’s. His presence, guidance, and ministry were woven into our experiences during those important formative years. Though many years have passed since our primary school days, the memories of that time and the role Father Okpokpo played remain with us. We remember him with gratitude and fondness as someone who was part of our shared childhood journey. We extend our heartfelt condolences to our dear mate, Eberechi, and the entire Okpokpo family. May God grant you strength, comfort, and peace during this difficult time. We honour his memory and pray that God grants him eternal rest. May his soul rest in perfect peace. Amen. 🕊️🙏 With fond memories and heartfelt condolences,

A candle lit for Rev. Fr. Donatus Okpokpo.

A candle lit for Rev. Fr. Donatus Okpokpo.

TRIBUTE TO MY GODFATHER, REV. FR. DONATUS OKPOKPO Father, you were not just a Priest to me, you were a guide, and my spiritual anchor. As a Reverend Father, you served God and humanity with unwavering faith, humility and love. As my Godfather, you stood by me, prayed for me, and helped in my journey to the Gospel Ministry with your wisdom and counsel. Your life was a true reflection of Christ's love - selfless, compassionate, and devoted to the very end. Though your cassock is laid down, your legacy of faith lives on. Rest in the bosom of the Lord, my dear Godfather, till we meet to part no more. Adieu, Padre! Very Reverend Father Donatus Okpokpo. Your God son, Pastor Declan Chinemezim Ekpe

A candle lit for Rev. Fr. Donatus Okpokpo.

I am lost without him RIP

A candle lit for Rev. Fr. Donatus Okpokpo.

A candle lit for Rev. Fr. Donatus Okpokpo.

A candle lit for Rev. Fr. Donatus Okpokpo.

A candle lit for Rev. Fr. Donatus Okpokpo.

A candle lit for Rev. Fr. Donatus Okpokpo.

A candle lit for Rev. Fr. Donatus Okpokpo.

I remember the last time I saw you father still feels like yesterday the short time I met you feels I have known you forever. Keep resting father.

A candle lit for Rev. Fr. Donatus Okpokpo.

A LOVED ONE CAN NEVER BE OLD ENOUGH TO DIE This is the actual feeling. Even when a loved one is aged, we still want him/her to live more on earth. Very Rev Fr. Donatus Ogumka Okpokpo, you died at 80, and it still feels like you died young. Probably, because you were so energetic before your brief ill health. It feels like the death of a very young priest. But the actual feeling of someone who lost a father-figure in his life. People ask of your age, and when I told them, they would reply with, "You were old ooo." And I responded with, "A LOVED ONE CAN NEVER BE OLD ENOUGH TO DIE." Fr. Okpokpo, you loved me like a true father. Thank you for everything you did for me. You were a very happy priest. The happiness and joy that emanated from you were very contagious and unalloyed. You were very easygoing and accessible. You were a gentleman to the core and a good priest of God. You were so welcoming. When our LORD JESUS and Blessed Virgin Mary are with you at death moment, then death becomes sweet and worth experiencing. May the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary win you God's mercy. May your soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in

Father I am saddened by the news of your death. You were not only my Uncle but a father. I remember spending my holidays at Alayi and Olokoro with you. You loved me like a daughter and the last time you saw me at Amizi you reminded me of my late mum you told a story about her that I have never forgotten. Though you're gone Father but your smiles, cheerfulness and above all your memories will remain forever with me. Rest on Father. Rest on my dearest Uncle.

A candle lit for Rev. Fr. Donatus Okpokpo.

Padre Forever you will live in my heart,gone but not forgotten 😭

A candle lit for Rev. Fr. Donatus Okpokpo.

A candle lit for Rev. Fr. Donatus Okpokpo.

A candle lit for Rev. Fr. Donatus Okpokpo.

A Pillar of Faith: it is with a heavy heart, but with total submission to the will of God, that we say goodbye to you, dearest Uncle. To the world, you were a Reverend Father—a spiritual guide, a dispenser of God’s grace, and a dedicated shepherd of souls. But to the family and everyone that comes in contact with you, you were simply "Uncle," our anchor, our counselor, and our quiet strength You seamlessly blended your sacred duty with your family responsibilities. The same hands that offered the Holy Sacrifice at the altar were the hands that held ours during our lowest moments. You taught us the true meaning of faith, not just through your sermons, but through your humility, your patience, and your immense capacity to love unconditionally. Your cassock may be folded and your voice silent, but the legacy of your priesthood and your fatherly love lives on in our hearts. Thank you for being a lighthouse in the family's storms You fought the good fight, you finished the race, and you kept the faith. Rest now in the bosom of the Good Shepherd you served so well.

You call me Johnny, you raised me from a child to become a man that I am today, I saw you pray, I saw you training people that are not connected to you, I saw the life of Christ that you preach and I am a witness that you live a very good life. I heard the news of your departure to be with the Lord and I cried but I remembered your words years ago you said to me JOHNNY I don't want to be old as that and you 👉 your finger to whom you are referring to. I now fully understand the reason you left. I love you Fr and will forever love U

A Tribute to my beloved Very Rev. Fr. Donatus Okpokpo Today, we honor and remember a truly devoted priest whose life was a blessing to so many. Through his faith, kindness, wisdom, and service, he touched countless lives and brought comfort and hope to those around him. His dedication to God and to his community was an inspiration. He served not only as a priest, but also as a counselor, teacher, friend, and source of strength during both joyful and difficult times. Although his presence will be deeply missed, the love, prayers, guidance, and memories he leaves behind will remain in our hearts. His legacy of faith and service will continue to live on through all those he touched. May God grant him eternal rest, and may his soul rest in perfect peace. Amen.

A candle lit for Rev. Fr. Donatus Okpokpo.

TRIBUTE TO REV. FR. DONATUS OKPOKPO We received with shock the news of the passing of Rev. Fr., Donatus Okpokpo a Distinguished Son of Amizi . While our paths did not cross closely, his life of service, humility and commitment to his priestly vocation speaks volumes. He was a light to the Church and an honour to our people. We pray for the repose of his soul and for strength for his family and the Diocese in this difficult time. Adieu, Padre. Rev Fr. Donatus Okpokpo …

A candle lit for Rev. Fr. Donatus Okpokpo.

A candle lit for Rev. Fr. Donatus Okpokpo.

Father, words can never truly express how much your passing hurts. You were not only a devoted priest, but also a beloved uncle whose presence brought warmth, wisdom, and love into our lives. You gave your life in service to God and His people, and your beautiful legacy will forever live on in our hearts. I will forever cherish your love, your prayers, and the memories we shared. Rest peacefully, Father. Your memory will forever be a blessing.

A candle lit for Rev. Fr. Donatus Okpokpo.

Rev fr. D Okpokpo was more than a priest to me , he was a father, mentor, guide and a source of strength. Living with him was a blessing, he supported and monitored me with love and wisdom. He was my go to person for almost everything growing up and during the burial of my late dad. His love and warmth touched not only my life but the entire family. It is difficult to imagine our family without his presence, care and generosity. Thank you, Father for being there for me and for being such a wonderful father figure. You will be deeply missed but your love and legacy will remain in our hearts forever.

A candle lit for Rev. Fr. Donatus Okpokpo.

A candle lit for Rev. Fr. Donatus Okpokpo.

Thank you for being part of my story. Thank you for the guidance you gave me and for the impact you made while you were here. I may not have been your daughter by blood, but I was blessed to experience your fatherly love and guidance. Your earthly journey has ended, but your impact remains. Until we meet again in the feet of Christ, rest well father.

A candle lit for Rev. Fr. Donatus Okpokpo.

A candle lit for Rev. Fr. Donatus Okpokpo.

A Tribute to My Beloved Uncle To my dear Uncle, a devoted Priest in the order of Melchizedek and a truly special soul, thank you for being a source of faith, wisdom, kindness, and love. Your gentle presence and selfless service have touched so many lives, including mine, in ways words can hardly express. You were not only a priest to your community, but also a beloved uncle, mentor, and above all a Father to me. Your prayers, guidance, and warmth will remain in my heart always. May God reward your faithful service and grant you eternal rest. You will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever cherished.

A candle lit for Rev. Fr. Donatus Okpokpo.

My Hero,My Daddy, I never knew I will be writing a tribute for you this year because we were preparing for birthday Celebration by December which I was looking forward to and making preparations to celebrate you in my own little way. I call you my Daddy because that is what you are to me, you nurtured me from my childhood as your daughter not as your niece.I tried to work my transfer to Umuahia with your assistance so that I can take care of you as a daughter should take care of her father but it is Unfortunate death never allowed me to do that I can't question God he knows the best. I will always choose you as my father and will miss the name Eby girl which you always call me. I am Heart broken rest on in the blossom of the Lord my hero till we meet to part no more.

A TRIBUTE TO MY BELOVED UNCLE, REV. FR. DONATUS OKPOKPO Some people pass through our lives, while others leave footprints that remain forever. Rev. Fr. Donatus Okpokpo was one of those rare souls. To me, he was not just a Reverend Father. He was my uncle, my brother, my adviser, and a spiritual builder who constantly offered guidance, wisdom, encouragement, and prayers. His words brought clarity, his counsel brought direction, and his faith inspired those around him. Through his priestly ministry and his personal relationship with people, he built lives, strengthened faith, and touched hearts in ways that words cannot fully express. His departure has left a deep and painful void in my heart. Yet, I am consoled by the beautiful legacy of faith, love, wisdom, and service he leaves behind. Dear Uncle Donatus, thank you for being a blessing to me and to so many others. Your voice may be silent now, but your words, your prayers, and the values you imparted will continue to speak through the lives you touched. May the Lord whom you served so faithfully welcome you into His eternal glory and grant you everlasting rest. Rest peacefully, father. Chimezie Ekpe

A candle lit for Rev. Fr. Donatus Okpokpo.

A candle lit for Rev. Fr. Donatus Okpokpo.

A life well lived! A Life That Inspired! Rev. Dr. Fr. Donatus Okpokpo, my mentor, priest and father figure, your passing leaves a space in my heart that words can hardly describe. I first knew you as an altar boy, but our relationship grew far beyond the sanctuary. You welcomed me into your life and home at St. Finbarr’s Parish, Umuahia, where I lived with you throughout my formative years. Those years became a foundation upon which much of my life was built. Through your words, discipline, kindness, prayers and example, you taught me lessons beyond the classroom. You corrected me when needed, encouraged me when I needed courage, and guided me as I learned to find my way. Thank you for picking me up as an altar boy and allowing me to grow under your guidance. Thank you for your counsel, discipline, patience and countless moments that became priceless memories. Though you have gone to your eternal rest, your influence remains alive in me. I will always remember you with gratitude and deep affection. May God receive you into His eternal kingdom and reward you for the lives you touched. Rest peacefully, my dear mentor and father in faith., Amen 🙏

A candle lit for Rev. Fr. Donatus Okpokpo.

Father, it’s been a week since the Creator called you back home. It still hasn’t fully dawned on me that you are no longer with us. I will always cherish the memories we were able to make together. Father, I will forever miss you.

A candle lit for Rev. Fr. Donatus Okpokpo.

To Fr Don okpokpo who wore three caps in my life, As my mentor,you taught me order and responsibility. As my my brother, you taught me loyalty and love. As my priest, you teach me faith and sacrifice. Not many people can hold a family together and feed souls at the altar but you did it with grace. You are a gift to okpokpo family, Amizi, Ikwuano, Abia and the church , I will miss you fr Don , may your gentle soul rest in peace Amen.

A candle lit for Rev. Fr. Donatus Okpokpo.

Father, It’s hard to believe you’re gone. You were a good man, a devoted priest, and a loving uncle. You were such a kind and selfless person. You took care of so many people and treated them like they were your own. That is something that will never be forgotten. You fought so hard and held on for so long, and I truly admire the strength you showed throughout it all. Thank you for the lives you touched and the love you gave. You will be greatly missed and forever remembered. May your soul rest in perfect peace. 🕊️❤️

A candle lit for Rev. Fr. Donatus Okpokpo.

A candle lit for Rev. Fr. Donatus Okpokpo.

Its really hard to believe that fr. Okpokpo is no more. I can't question God. Coming home for your funeral at this time was never part of our plans. We had bigger plans for your birthday and golden jubilee celebrations. Journey home in peace my hero. Thanking you for making me a member of the Okpokpo family. My story can never be complete without you. Just like the Biblical Elli and Samuel, God called me through you. About twenty six ago, you saw a star in me and took me in. You so much believed in me and gave me a lot of opportunities. Thank you for your love. You gave me a pet name "Pet" for Peter. Thank you so much fr for the good legacies you left behind. I will accompany you with my prayers. May God and the Angels welcome you home.

With profound sorrow and deep reverence, we mourn the transition of a towering pillar, a beloved uncle, a faithful friend of our family, and a dedicated shepherd of God’s people—Very Rev. Fr. Donatus Okpokpo. Fr. Donatus was far more than a priest; he was a giant of compassion, a fountain of wisdom, and a refuge for all who knew him. To our family, he was an unwavering anchor of support whose love knew no bounds. He was a man who truly meant well, translating his goodwill into tangible, transformative acts of sacrifice. When the opportunity arose for me to pursue my higher education at the University of San Francisco, California, Fr. Donatus stepped forward without hesitation, offering to cover my flight ticket. Though the visa was ultimately not granted, his willingness to invest in my future remains etched in my heart forever. That single act embodied his entire life: an unyielding desire to lift others up, to break barriers for the young, and to turn dreams into reality. As a mentor, he was incomparable. He was exceptionally generous with his advice, offering guidance that was always grounded in truth, grace, and foresight. His

A candle lit for Rev. Fr. Donatus Okpokpo.

Fr. Okpokpo was with us during the 2025 Christmas season in the village. One of the evenings he told us the story of his life and how he survived the Nigerian - Biafra civil war. It was an interesting story and the take away was the importance of understanding languages. He understood and spoke hausa and that saved his life. The day Fr. arrived Amizi his village after the civil war, everyone including his father did not believe. There was a party that lasted for many days. He told us many things about our traditions including TVÓkónkó and Ekpe. A man that loved his people. I never knew the evening we spent in December 2025 was the last one. Dee. We miss you. Rest in peace.

A candle lit for Rev. Fr. Donatus Okpokpo.

To a loving and kind father In-law,though death did not allow us to spend much time together,the little time I spent with you was worth it. You touched so many lives by your countless acts of kindness. For the institution you worked for, you lived an exemplary life,May you find rest in the Bossom of the Lord. Rest in Peace Father.

Very Rev. Fr. Donatus Ogumka Gods power Okpokpo (DOGO) your life on earth was a life of sacrifice, you affected many lives positively, you were a father to the core. Rest in the bossom of the Lord, till we meet to part no more.

A candle lit for Rev. Fr. Donatus Okpokpo.

A candle lit for Rev. Fr. Donatus Okpokpo.

"To those who knew him, he was a Catholic Priest, a Rev Father with integrity, quiet strength, and deep compassion. But to me, he was much more than a Rev Father. He was my father-in-law—he was a mentor, a second dad, and a trusted friend. From the very first day I joined this family, he welcomed me with an open heart, unending patience, and warmth.He taught us so much through the way he lived his life—by his hard work, his humility, and his deep devotions to the church. His wise words and gentle humor brought comfort during hard times and joy during the good ones.Though there is a painful void in our lives now, his legacy lives on in the church and family he built, the values he instilled, and the countless lives he touched. Thank you for everything you gave us, and for loving me as your own. Your grand children will miss you. Rest in peace.

A candle lit for Rev. Fr. Donatus Okpokpo.

It still feels difficult to believe that you are gone. I keep thinking about the last conversation we had. At the time, it was simply a conversation between us. I had no idea it would be the last time I would speak with you. Now, that moment means so much more to me, and I am so grateful that we had it. I will always carry it with me. I will remember you not only as a priest and a man who dedicated his life to serving God and others, but as my uncle. I will remember the conversations, the familiar moments, and the person behind all the titles and responsibilities. You will be deeply missed, Uncle. Rest peacefully, Father. Your memory will always remain with us. 🕊️

A candle lit for Rev. Fr. Donatus Okpokpo.