MODERATE FUNERAL..PROF AWOONOR LEADS THE WAY.

The late Prof. Awoonor who was killed in a gun attack in Kenya on Saturday, September 21, 2013 was laid to rest over the weekend. Not only did he live his life as a great teacher but even in death he still gives us lessons. The mortal remains was cremated in accordance with the Professors wishes.A family source said Prof. Awoonor made some declarations on how he should be buried upon his death. He declared that the pre-burial ceremony for him should not last more than one hour. The late professor had also declared that there should not be wailing and crying at the ceremony and also indicated a particular spot at his home town, Weta in the Volta Region, where he would have a “final and eternal rest”. Guided by these wishes, the family in planning his funeral and burial rites organized a solemn ceremony to send home Professor Kofi Awoonor, the immediate past Chairman of the Council of State The strictly private ceremony, held on the wishes of the late Professor, was attended by his family members, some government officials and representatives of political parties. In a solemn way the ceremony was characterized by pouring of Libation, a prayer by Rev. F.M. Amevenku and the singing of the Methodist hymn, “When Peace Like a River”. A selection of poems authored by the late Prof. Awoonor like “ What Brought Me Here”, “Across a New Dawn”, Those Gone Ahead” and “Up in the Garden” were recited at the funeral by his family members. In times where funerals in Ghana has become extravagant and event of socialization , showing class, wealth and ones stature in life, he decided to be buried in a humbling and simple way. Something Ghanaians need to learn and emulate. The death of a dear one calls for mourning so let us stop the funeral fun-fairs of eating, drinking and dancing and respect their memory so they can rest in perfect Peace.