The death has been announced of Deaconess (Mrs) Rebecca Edjeren of Ivrogbo-Irri at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital on the 27th of January 2025 at the ripe age of 101 years.
Mrs. Rebecca Edjeren was born on 2nd of July, 1923 to David and Esther Ogbo, both education-loving and ardent Christians, in Ivrogbo-Irri, Isoko South Local Government Area, Delta State
She attended the then Teacher-Training College at Ebu- Owerri and graduated in 1943, at a time female education was a rarity. She got married to James Edjeren (James Warri) of Otokutu, Ughelli South Local Government Area, a prominent Urhobo educator, the same year.
Over a period of Thirty-Five years, she taught in Primary Schools in Warri, Enugu, Onitsha , Ughelli, Iluelogbo (Owhelogbo), Emevor, Uro and Oleh (Isoko Central School — ICS — where she retired)
She eventually relocated to Benin City where she became a major food contractor to the fledgling University of Benin. Her stay in Benin brought her in contact with Archbishop Benson Idahosa of the Church of God Mission International family where she worshipped and was later called to serve as a full time Matron of the Word of Faith Group of Schools.
Archbishop Benson Idahosa ordained her as deaconess in recognition of her outstanding contributions to the growth of the church. She undertook international trips with him as a dedicated member of (CWIFI) Christian Women International Fellowship. It is worthy to note that despite being advanced in age she was still a member of the church choir at the Faith Arena in Benin.
She finally retired back to her residence at Ugbowo and continued attending the local branch of the Church of God Mission there until the time of her death in 2025.
She was blessed with eight children:
Veteran broadcaster and public relations expert, Ray Austin Edjeren ; Professeur Emery Edjeren; Ms Edna Edjeren (retired civil servant) Elder Florence Enejeta Mosheshe (aka Flora) (culinary doyen); Dr. Mrs. Ufuoma Lamikanra (aka Gladys);
Associate Professor Felix Edjeren ;
Veteran journalist, broadcaster and media executive, Ignatius Ruke Edjeren and
ace broadcaster, Israel Edjeren.
She is also survived by 26 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren among whom are international figures like
Dr. Oluwatomi Lamikanra, and the internet preacher Joy Edjeren (daughter-in-law).
Funeral arrangements will be announced in due course.
Rest in peace, Rebecca Edjeren. All who knew and loved you will miss you very much.
Ray Austin Edjeren
For the family