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By Correspondent in Lagos.
Grief hangs heavy in the hearts of family, friends and associates as preparations gather pace for the final farewell of Mrs Oluwakemi Oyeteju James, beloved wife of veteran journalist and former Editor of Ovation International Magazine, Mr. Michael James.
Fondly known as Kemi, the businesswoman, whose warmth and industrious spirit touched many lives, passed away on March 12, leaving behind a void that words can scarcely fill.
She will be laid to rest on April 1, following a two-day funeral programme scheduled to hold in Lagos.
In a statement released, her husband, who currently serves as Senior Special Assistant (Lagos Liaison) to Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom, announced that a service of songs will be held on March 31 at the Stella Hall of Daystar Christian Centre, Oregun, Lagos, while the funeral service will take place the following day at the same venue.
Her interment, the family noted, will be a private moment of quiet goodbye.
Born on July 29, 1972, as the first child of her family, Oluwakemi lived a life marked by diligence, resilience and devotion.
From her early education in Shomolu to her formative years at Shepherdhill Girls High School and Federal Government Girls’ College, Oyo, she demonstrated a commitment to growth and excellence.
Her academic journey took her through the Nigerian Institute of Journalism and Yaba College of Technology, where she earned her Higher National Diploma, preparing her for a career that reflected both creativity and discipline.
Professionally, she explored diverse paths,beginning with her industrial training at First Bank of Nigeria, followed by a stint as a Reporter/Researcher at African Concord Magazine.
She later worked in the Proof Reading and Finishing Department at Modern Design and Associate, before serving her fatherland during the National Youth Service Corps at the Lagos State Printing Corporation.
Afterward, she ventured into the corporate world as a Marketing Executive at Swift Freight International, where she worked diligently before charting her own entrepreneurial path.
Driven by passion, Kemi found her true calling in catering.
What began as a humble service to family and friends blossomed into Limelight Caterings Limited, a thriving business that earned admiration for its commitment to healthy and organic cuisine.
Through perseverance and creativity, she built a brand that catered to both corporate and private events, winning hearts with every meal she prepared.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, she was a devoted wife and a loving mother to her two children, Kufreabasi and Anietientebasi, whose lives remain forever shaped by her care and guidance.
As the day of her burial approaches, those who knew her continue to reflect on a life that, though cut short, was richly lived in service, love and quiet excellence.
Her absence is deeply felt, but her legacy endures in the memories she created and the lives she touched.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
