In Loving Memory of
Elim City - The Shed, Opposite VIP Station, Sunyani, Ghana
Introductory words & Prayer
Hymn - It is well with my soul
Praise & Worship
Welcoming of Guests
Bible Readings: [1st & 2nd]
Song Ministration (1st)
Eulogy - Family
Tributes - [Husband / Children / VRA / Elim City / Video]
Offering (1st)
Song Ministration (2nd)
Sermon
Offering (2nd)
Prayer for Family
Funeral Information
Closing Song - Goodness of God (All my life)
Prayer and Benediction
Song - Me te asea, me te ma wo
Introductory Words
Chorus - "Because He lives."
Words Of Committal
Laying of Wreaths
Prayer & Benediction
When peace like a river attendeth my way,
When sorrows like sea billows roll;
Whatever my lot, thou hast taught me to say,
It is well, it is well, with my soul.
It is well (it is well)
With my soul (with my soul)
It is well, it is well with my soul
Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come,
Let this blest assurance control,
That Christ has regarded my helpless estate,
And hath shed His own blood for my soul.
My sin, oh, the bliss of this glorious thought!
My sin, not in part but the whole,
Is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more,
Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul!
21st November, 1958 - 2025
Also Known As: Lucy Osei Afari
The late Rev. Mrs. Lucy Perbi Nyarko was born on 21st November, 1958 to the late Opanin Kwaku Nyamekye from the Nsoatre Nsesreso family and the late Obaapanin Grace Osei Afari from the Sunyani Gyeduakro family. She started her elementary school at the Nyamaa Basic School in 1964 but completed at the Sunyani Anglican school in 1974. When she was in middle form 3, she passed the Common Entrance examination to go to Ghana Secondary School in Koforidua but her late grandfather Opanin Adolphus Osei Afari who took care of her education declined to send her there due to her petite structure. Unperturbed by that decision, she again sat for the examination when she got to middle form four (F4) and passed to go to Sunyani Secondary School with the ambition to become a medical doctor.
Unfortunate for her, her grandfather who preferred Technical Education to the Grammar type, decided to send her to the Sunyani Technical Institute (Sunyani Technical University) to do Catering for two years and end up as a Matron. Again, due to her structure the then principal, Mr. F. A. Baiden advised the grandfather to let her do Business which was four years with the hope that her physical structure would improve after the four years.
From the Sunyani Technical Institute, she proceeded to Takoradi Polytechnic in 1978 with her two certificate which were obtained concurrently i.e. Royal Society of Arts (RSA) and General Certificate of Education (G. C. E 'O' level) to do her Diploma in Business Studies (DBS) Accounting option and completed in 1981.
Aided by Mr. Philip Awuah who bought forms and also vacated his room for her at campus, she was encouraged to attend the University of Cape Coast in 1982, to pursue the Bachelor of Commerce (B. Com), Accounting option and graduated with B.Com Hons. Degree and Diploma in Education simultaneously in 1987, due to the one-year University closure by the P. N. D. C Administration.
After school, she was posted to her Alma Mata, Sunyani Technical Institute to do her National Service, where she taught accounting. Imbued with the Spirit of sacrifice, she at that time, organized special 'A' level Accounting Classes at the Twene Amanfo Secondary School for some students, some of which have graduated in B.Com and are in Administrative positions not forgetting the numerous female students who have completed their Masters, Degrees and Nursing programmes. To her "I cannot do Spirit" was an affront to her dignity and alien to her upbringing.
After completing her National Service Programme she was employed at the Ghana Water Company in 1989 as Officer. Impressed by her prowess in accounting she was tasked to assist the audit unit in the Commercial company. In order to keep her and make her feel comfortable, an estate house was bought for her to stay in.
In 1995, the Volta River Authority (VRA) needed some Finance Officers and so she applied, attended interview and was employed and sent to the Tamale Area office to work as Area Finance officer. She was transferred back to Sunyani as Area Finance Officer and back to Tamale head office and back again to Sunyani still as Area Finance officer. Here in Sunyani, she got the opportunity to act as Area Manager. She later attended an interview for managerial position and she was subsequently promoted to the position of Area Manager breaking the long standing monopolized administrative structure. To be precise, she was the first female to rise to that position. Again, she was the first person from non-engineering background to get to that position thanks to her hard work, tactfulness, dexterity and acumen.
While in active service, she got the opportunity in 2003 to travel to the United Kingdom to study at Leicester University where she obtained her Master's Degree in Business Administration (Finance option). She formed the VRA Ladies Association and encouraged many cashiers to further their studies some of whom have become finance officers. She organized field trips and excursions for the ladies taking them to places like Burkina Faso and Dubai. Through her instrumentality, some females from poor houses were identified and adopted by the Ladies Association and their educational expenses were catered for by the association.
From Sunyani, she was transferred to Bolgatanga as Area Manager. Her impact over there, mesmerized the workers and the community to the extent that the Bongo Chief enskinned her as Development Queen of Bongo and given the title Timnalana. She was so dear to them that when she retired in 2018, a convoy was sent to bring her back to Bolgatanga to continue her good works there not to mention the educational opportunities initiated for the youth and the donation of items to the needy and elderly.
To the family, Rev. Mrs. Lucy Perbi Nyarko was a pivot around which the care and support of her siblings revolved. She was an oasis of strength, direction and financial support a vacuum which will be difficult to fill. She was respectful, co-operative, task oriented, serviceable, frank and out-spoken.
Back in September 1985, Rev. Mrs. Lucy Perbi Nyarko married to Mr. Crosby Perbi Nyarko. They had plans to celebrate their fortieth (40) year marriage vows this year only to be taken aback by the unexpected news from Accra where she received medical care.
Madam Lucy's Christian life has been quite chequered, starting at the Methodist Church in her childhood days to the Assemblies of God Church (AG), Calvary Charismatic Centre (C.C.C) and Elim City where she was one of the founding members, culminating in her being ordained as a minister of the gospel in 2016.
At Elim City, she was a board member, was in charge of church finances, Bible School Teacher (Life in the word), Marriage Counsellor (Family life), women ministry organizer and Pastor in charge of the Twi section (Aseda Congregation).
After retirement from active service, Rev. Mrs. Lucy Perbi Nyarko continued to offer her skills in support of humanity. She was an executive members of Sunyani Technical Institute Alumni, Regional Executive member of Ghana LPG Operators Association (GLIPGOA) and the National Treasurer. She was also the treasurer of the VRA Retirees Association.
The entire family, numerous people you have been supporting and those still under the care of the Perbi Nyarko family will forever miss you.
Rest well in the bosom of Abraham. Shalom.
Damire fa due
Due ne Amanehunu. NANTE YIE OOO!
"Lord remind me how brief my time on earth will be, remind me that my days are numbered. How fleeting my life is"
— Psalm 39:4The most difficult and excruciating job to undertake was to write and read the tribute of a dear one, who through thick and thin has been by my side all the forty years. The sudden death of Lucy cannot be comprehended and her memories would forever remain with us.
We got married in our twenties and were full of life. What we are seeing today is thus a tragedy we never expected. Lucy was plain and frank in everything. She was fearless and never allowed anybody to take advantage of her. She was very meticulous in everything she pursued. The spirit I cannot do was not part of her life. Lucy was a caring wife and it was no wondered she enjoyed reading Proverbs 31, reflecting on the verse ten (10) which we used on our wedding card: "who can find a virtuous wife? For her worth is far above rubies".
She combined effectively, her career, family life and spiritual life. She performed her normal office work with a sense of pride. She eschewed lateness to work and she was always the last to come home. It was no wonder she once took the best worker award during her working life. She was not self-centered but took interest in the ladies welfare issues. She encouraged the V. R. A ladies to study hard and make it to top positions.
At home, Madam Lucy endeared herself to everybody. She opened her arms to all, both far and near. Food was always available on the table. No wonder, children found a perfect rest in her abode. Lucy was a disciplinarian across board. One has to rise up early in order not to be late for school, work or meeting. She never hesitated in using the cane if one deserved it. She was strong and stern.
The Spiritual life of Madam Lucy was exemplary. She would always priorities matters of the Kingdom of God over hers. She participated fully in almost all church activities. She only absented herself when she was out of town. Every morning, she would have her quiet time and made sure everybody participated. She took it upon herself to provide morning devotion materials (our Daily Manna) for the household.
Madam Lucy was circumspect in whatever she did and also avoided waste where necessary. Even though she was over sixty years, she made sure she dressed up well for all occations. Madam Lucy offered free counselling to all who came her way irrespective of their status. Madam Lucy was a strong pillar, organizer, advisor and a source of hope and inspiration to the family and beyond.
Honestly, a mighty oak tree has fallen and "a man hole" has been created. The two families, the church and the macro-community have lost a gem, a real gem indeed.
Currently, the wounds within me would take a longer period to heal. I am completely shattered by Lucy's impromptu demise. The load over my head would weigh me down and only our Creator can intervene. The most painful aspect of Lucy's departure which will continue to remain with me forever is the fact that ALL HER LABOUR ON EARTH HAS COME TO NAUGHT.
I will end with some quote from the MHB 976.
"Now the labourers task is over,
Now the battle-day is past,
Now upon the farther shore
Lands the voyage at last
Father in thy gracious keeping
Leave me now thy servant sleeping"
Fare thee well Mama
Fare thee well Lucy
Fare thee well Rev.
You have fought gallantly. Ayekoo
With deep love and fond memories,
Crosby Perbi Nyarko
(Husband)
Our Dearest Mum
We struggle to fully understand the impact you had on our lives. You were a source of love, a fierce guardian, and a gentle guide who always steered us towards growth and improvement. Your love was a constant, a warm and comforting presence that shaped who we are.
You influenced us with a desire for all things godly. Never did you miss a church gathering or anything related to ministry. Your relentless love for God is the reason we haven't strayed so far from him. You always made sure we do not put our trust in any other god but Yaweh.
You had a strong belief in our potential, always encouraging us to strive for excellence and to stand out in everything we did. You instilled in us a drive to be our best, a confidence that we could achieve anything we set our minds to. Your support was our bedrock, the force that propelled us to move forward in life.
Even in your final moments, your thoughts were for us, for the legacy you had so beautifully built. You were still focused on ensuring we continued to succeed, to make our mark wherever we go. This selfless dedication is a testament to the extraordinary woman you were.
But your love extended far beyond the small family. Your heart was so vast, so generous, that you never turned a child away. Your home was a haven, constantly filled with laughter and the happy chatter of children. Every child who crossed your path felt the warmth of your embrace and longed for your presence. You may have given birth to a few, but you nurtured a multitude, becoming a mother figure to so many. Your love for children was a testament to your compassion and your desire to care for all.
We will carry your love, your strength, and your belief in us, and in the potential of every child, in our hearts forever. Your legacy of love, protection, the pursuit of excellence, and your incredible capacity to cater for us all live on through us and through the countless lives you touched.
We will strive to make you proud, to continue building upon the foundation you laid with devotion. You may be gone, but your spirit will forever light our paths and the paths of all those you empowered. We love you, Mum, more than words can say. You will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.
As we brood on your favorite verse,
"He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty."
we believe you are resting beautifully in the bosom of our Lord, safe and sound.
Your love will echo in the laughter of children for generations to come.
Mum, your arms were always open when we needed a hug. Your heart was always full of love. Your hands were always busy caring for everyone around you. Thank you for being our first teacher, our strongest advocate, and our most devoted friend.
With eternal love and gratitude,
Your Children
It's hard for us to believe that you're really gone. You were a kind and selfless person and you inspired us all. This has been a massive loss for us.
Even though we saw you in person a few times, your impact was evident everywhere in our family. We saw you in the life of our mum, in how you were spoken of and how you lived. And when we did see you, your infectious energy shone brightly.
You were the glue that held everything together, and it was clear how much everyone loved you. We remember how we would see photos of you dancing in church on Facebook, saying 'look at Grandma'; and it breaks our hearts that we'll never see you dance ever again. We will miss you so so much and we hope to make you proud.
Grandma, there were a lot of memories that we had of you but our favorite one was when you took us to the gas station for the first time. We loved it so much that when we left there, we would call you everyday and ask you how much we made at the gas station that day. We'll miss all of our calls on the phone, always telling us to study hard and make you proud.
"Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope. For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in Him."
This verse tells us that although we have lost our beloved grandma, she is now in the hands of God.
She is now resting free from all pain and suffering. We will miss you Grandma and we will see you again on the day the Lord has planned for us, but for now it's Goodbye. Rest in heavenly peace.
Fly high Grandma.
Fly high.
With love from,
Your Grandchildren
"Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all." — Proverbs 31:28-29
With heavy hearts yet deep gratitude, we celebrate the life of our dear Rev. Mrs. Lucy Perby Nyarko, affectionately known as Maa Luu. She was more than a friend; she was a pillar, a confidante, a relentless worker in the vineyard of the Lord, and a woman of unwavering faith.
From the very inception of Elim City, Maa Luu was present—praying, serving, and leading. She was one of the pioneers who helped birth the vision of this church, never relenting in her commitment even when work transferred her to Bolgatanga as the Regional Director for VRA. Distance never diminished her devotion; rather, she expanded the work of the ministry by helping plant the Tamale branch of Elim City.
She was a woman who embraced all—young and old, rich and poor. No task was beneath her, no responsibility too overwhelming. Whether making high-level boardroom decisions as a board member or coordinating the daily operations of the church, she poured her heart into everything she did. As an associate to the Senior Pastor, she provided wise counsel and unwavering support, line-managing three departments and twelve ministries with diligence and grace.
Her recent role as the pastor of the Aseda (Twi) Service was yet another testament to her deep love for God's people. With a motherly heart and a firm spirit, she shepherded the congregation with passion, ensuring they grew in both faith and community.
Beyond her service, she shared a special bond with Pastor Gospel—a relationship built on mutual respect, trust, and understanding. Though she was a force to be reckoned with, one thing remained certain: she submitted to pastoral guidance with humility. Even in moments of disagreement, she would say, "Had it not been for Pastor..." or "My Papa has spoken, it is final." Her obedience and reverence for leadership were a mark of her wisdom and spiritual maturity.
My last encounter with Maa Luu in Accra, the night before I traveled to London, is a moment I will cherish forever. It was a time of warmth, laughter, and deep reflection—one that now holds even greater significance. Little did I know it would be our last conversation. She was special to me, to Pastor Gospel, and to the entire Elim City family. Her absence has created a gap that will take many to fill.
She will be dearly missed—especially at Christmas, a season she embraced with so much joy. The annual Children's Christmas Party she organized was a highlight for the little ones, who adored her warmth and generosity. Her high-spirited approach to the Carol Service, Christmas by the Fire, and every festive gathering made the season even more special. She was a pillar in the Women's Network, a cherished part of the Diamond Congregation, and an invaluable member of the Finance Team, where her sharp mind and integrity were unmatched.
For Pastor Adams and me, our Three Musketeers team is no more. The bond we shared, the moments of deep discussions, strategy meetings, and laughter—those will never be the same again.
Maa Luu's resilience in faith and service was exceptional. She didn't just preach the gospel—she lived it. Whether leading in worship, auditing church finances, or dancing joyfully in praise, she embodied the heart of a true servant of God.
Her legacy in Elim City is indelible. We have lost a gem, but heaven has gained a saint. Though she is absent in body, her impact remains. We take solace in the fact that she has fought the good fight, finished her race, and kept the faith.
Rest well and thank you Rev Mrs Perbi - Nyarko, Elim's sweet sixteen and our own Maa Luu. Your life was a testimony, and your reward is sure. Till we meet again in glory.
With love and gratitude,
Your friends, colleagues, and church family at Elim City
Unto us a leader was given.
Unto us a friend was bestowed.
But today she is no more.
How else shall we remember her?
"Everything that happens in this world happens at the time God chooses. He sets the time for birth and the time for death. The time for planting and the time for pulling up"
— Ecclesiastes 3:1-2Mrs Lucy Perbi-Nkyarko, our sister, mother, auntie, friend and wife has joined the silent majority in heaven. She was generous and great. She sacrificed her time, resources, heart, indeed her all for her family and friends.
You were socially engaged and made friends with people from all walks of life on matter the status of the person. You were a mother to all and your motherly love, care, protection and counselling were not only limited to your children but to outsiders as well. You were so full of life, lived your life to the fullest. Mother Lucy, you were a cheerful giver. Your death has come as a shock and we deem it early and untimely.
We are compelled to hold back our tears. However, our memories of you cannot disappear.
Madam Lucy went through the dimensions of life, length of life measured by birthdays/age, she lived "Three score and seven (67 years) three years short of which the Bible speaks about Psalm 90:10.
In life we need to leave our marks on families and communities which she did. She made her life deeper and meaningful by serving God and humankind – the two purposes of life. She was a dedicated and cherished member of VRA-Retired Employees Association, Sunyani Branch. Besides, she was also an executive member, precisely the treasure for years.
Madam Lucy kept the accounting books well and was very transparent in all her dealings.
Her unwavering commitment in showing love, care and kindness left an indelible mark in the hearts of many people.
Mrs Lucy Perbi-Nyarko was a fiercely independent minded person who could not be easily brushed off. As a very sought for type of person, she assumed many leadership positions in VRA/NEDCo as area Manager in Bolga and in numerous Associations.
She was not only society-centred but also development oriented person. Madam Lucy was someone who spent her energies and lived unselfishly, amicably and actively. Her influence among her associates was impactful.
Her relationship with her family was very warm, amicable and harmonious. Health wise, she was a strong lady, hardly heard of her sickness but for her few ill-health in a couple of years, she was not bed-ridden.
She treated her few sicknesses with respect by not ignoring them. Anytime she saw symptoms she sought medical attention. A case in point was when she was not feeling well, she travelled to Tamale, referred to Akosombo Hospital, thereof to Korle-Bu Hospital for treatment.
We have lost an honest friend, a precious gift.
May her soul rest in perfect peace.
With deep appreciation and fond memories,
VRA Retired Employees Association
Sunyani Branch
"Then I heard a voice from heaven say, 'write this: Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.' 'Yes,' says the spirit, 'they will rest from their labour, for their deeds will follow them."
(Revelations 14: 13)he Late Lucy Osei Afari as she was called during her days at the then Sunyani Technical Institute (SUTECH), enrolled in 1974, and pursued Business Studies. Her course mates will attest to the fact that she was brilliantly endowed with knowledge and excellence and among the top students in all the subjects.
Though, an excellent and all round student, she was very humble (down to earth), and was always ready to teach and offer assistance to everyone who had difficulty in any of their subjects. Due to her exceptional brilliance she was very popular in our school days.
Afia was also a devout Christian and a member of the Scripture Union (SU) and her passion and commitment was so immersed that she was elected the President of the Union in her final year at the School.
Mama Luu, as she was affectionately called by Alumni members, finally joined the Alumni in 2016 after a long wait due to her workload as a result of occupying various positions in the Northern Electricity Distribution Company (NEDCO). Her commitment and dedication to the Association was immeasurable despite her position at that time as the Bolgatanga Regional Manager of NEDCO, and so when the association decided to organize the Formal Maiden Homecoming in 2017, she was selected as the Chairperson of the Homecoming Committee. Through her leadership qualities, acquaintances, rapport, and strong networks, the committee was able to reach out to a lot of SUTECHIANS all over the globe and the response was so massive. It was therefore not surprising that that forum gave birth to the Global STU Alumni which we celebrate today as the Umbrella Body of this Noble Association.
Again, last year (2024) when the elders of the Association decided to carve out the town members from the campus members due to the mode of operation of the two groups, Mama Luu was charged to lead and with the support of others in record time (that is within three months) had mobilised the town members to a formidable and vibrant group with a developed Constitution and the group known as the Sunyani Town Chapter of STU Alumni. She devoted a greater part of her retirement time for the organisation such that within the space, members of the association presence at various ceremonies, especially funerals and other events were unimaginable.
It was on one of these ceremonies, a one week funeral observation at Odumase on Sunday 12th January, 2025 that we recognized that Mama Lucy on that day was not of her usual self because she could not perform her role as the announcer on behalf of the Alumni and passed on to another person.
That very evening after our Alumni meeting, she confided in some of the Alumni Executives that she was not feeling well and that she wants to seek medical attention from her doctor in Tamale. Little did we know that it would be the last time of seeing our dear sister.
During her stay at the hospital, some executive members of the Accra Chapter visited her and offered the best assistance for her successful operation. Even in her sick bed she was in high spirit and was urging Executive members to support whoever was holding the forth till her returned. It therefore came as a shock when the Alumni heard of her death.
We have really lost a brilliant, dynamic and a devoted member of the Alumni. Today we pay tribute to Lucy Osei Afari and resolve to continue her good works to make the Sunyani Chapter of STU Alumni one of the best in Ghana and the whole world. We very much believe she had lived to the task and is waiting in Paradise until we meet on the day of Resurrection.
Mama Luu eeeiih! Mama Luu eeeiih! Mama Luu eeeiih!
damirifa due ooo, damirifa due oooo, damirifa due, due ne amane hunu.
With profound respect and gratitude,
Sunyani Technical University Alumni
n behalf of the Ghana LPG Operators Association (GLiPGOA), we mourn the loss of our beloved National Treasurer, Madam Lucy Perbi-Nyarko, affectionately called "Madam Lucy" by members.
Your tireless efforts in managing our finances, attention to detail, and commitment to transparency earned you the respect and admiration of all. Your leadership and guidance helped shape our association into what it is today.
We remember a dedicated and passionate leader who joined our industry in 2019. Her rise through the ranks was swift and well-deserved, becoming Regional Treasurer for the Bono Region in 2022. Her crowning achievement came in 2023, when she was nominated and voted as our National Treasurer at our congress in Takoradi, a position she held with distinction until her untimely passing.
With profound gratitude and respect,
Ghana LPG Operators Association (GLiPGOA)
Elim City - The Shed
Opposite VIP Station, Sunyani, Ghana
2nd May, 2025
5:00AM - 11:00AM
Get DirectionsYour contribution honors her legacy
Your support, whether through contributions or prayers, is deeply appreciated by the family. Every gesture of kindness helps preserve the beautiful legacy of love and service that Rev. Mrs. Lucy Perbi-Nyarko leaves behind.
The best way to honor a life well-lived is to continue the good works they began.