#Opinion

Tribute to Ajaratou Louis Njie

Aug 28, 2024, 10:50 AM

Waking up this morning to a flurry of messages, I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our beloved elder sister, Ajaratou Louis Njie. It is difficult to find words that truly capture the profound sense of loss we are through at this moment. 

Ajaratou Louis was not just an elder sister; she was the heart and soul of our family, a beacon of love, warmth and selflessness that touched every one of us. 

I visited Ajaratou Louis when she moved to her magnificent new house built by her children in appreciation of her constant motherly care and guidance to them. She was as usual very gracious and full of wisdom which she voluntarily shared and reminisced about family bonds and values that characterised how our forbearers used to live together in peace, humility, respect and above all with an UBUNTU Spirit of “you are because I am, I am because you are.’

Ajaratou Louis was the embodiment of grace and compassion. Her kindness knew no bounds, and she had an extraordinary ability to make everyone feel special and valued. Whether you were near or far, no matter your station in life, she made it a point of duty to reach out, to check in, to offer a word of encouragement or simply share a smile that could light up any room. Her selflessness was unparalleled, always putting the needs and happiness of others before her own. 

She dedicates her free time, her wisdom, and her love, asking for nothing in return. Her smile was a constant, a reflection of the joy she found in life and the love she carried in her heart for all those around her. It was a smile that reassured us in difficult times, celebrated with us in joyous moments, and most importantly, reminded us that we were never alone. Her presence was a source of comfort and strength, a reminder that family was everything, and that we were all bound together by love.

Ajaratou Louis’s legacy is one of unwavering love, boundless generosity, and a spirit that uplifted everyone she encountered. She was a pillar of our family, a guiding light whose wisdom and warmth we will surely miss. Yet, even as we grieve, we must also celebrate the incredible life she lived, the countless lives she touched, and the enduring love she shared with us all.

As we bid farewell to our dear Ajaratou Louis, let’s carry forward the values she held dear to her heart, kindness, and a commitment to caring for one another. Though she may no longer be with us in person, her spirit will forever live on in our hearts, inspiring us to be better, to love more deeply, and to cherish the bonds that connect us as a family.

Rest in peace, dear sister. Your love, your smile, and your selfless spirit will remain with us always.

On behalf of our Khalifa General Alhaji Ambassador Ebou Manneh, who is also currently in the USA and the entire family, we extend our deepest condolences on the passing of our dearest Ajaratou Louis Njie - May her passing be a Blessing, as we pray for the Almighty Allah to grant her Janatul Firdaus.

 Our thoughts and prayers are especially with dearest children near and far, may Allah grant you the fortitude to bear the inevitability of life and living which is Death. 

Abdoulie M Touray- on behalf of the entire family.