It was rain of tributes in Tombia Town, Degema Local Government Area of Rivers State as family, friends, and well wishers gathered on Saturday, June 17, 2023 to bid farewell to a beloved figure who touched the lives of many. The mourners, who came from all walks of life, expressed the profound impact which the late Amazon had beyond her immediate circle.
Mrs. Somiari’s passing was a poignant reminder of the power of compassion, empathy, and community involvement. Her memory will forever live on in the hearts and minds of those whose lives she touched, and her legacy will continue to inspire future generations in the places she lived.
The atmosphere at the graveside was filled with both sorrow and
celebration, as her husband, Dr. Victor I. Somiari and other mourners
shared their tributes, reminiscing about the remarkable woman Deborah was and the profound influence she had on their lives.
First to fire the salvo was her husband, Dr. Victor I. Somiari, a veteran sports journalist and devoted servant of God, who fondly reminisced the moments they shared together.
His words, “Darling, we’re coming! Indeed it is true that the man who
finds a wife (virtuous woman) finds a good thing and obtains favour
(grace) from God. Without mincing words, you made me a living witness
to this truism. The reason is simple, you came into my life with enormous grace that for the twenty-eight years and three months we lived together as husband and wife, I had a great sense of purpose and direction in virtually all things I did in life…..”
Her son, David Obakam Somiari,tearfully, poetically described his mother as a wonderful mum and guiding light, always there to offer support and wisdom.
“Mum, I feel so bad you passed away, though I know your type can’t
come again. You saw that in me there was great gain, so you disciplined me with the cane. You didn’t care that I caused you pain because you knew your struggle will not be in vain….”, David wrote.
The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Rivers State chapter
of which Dr. Victor Somiari was a founding member, described her as a
dear wife, soul mate and companion. In the tribute that was signed by
Rivers chapter Chairman, Sarah A. David, the body expressed shock that
Deborah died at a time she was needed most by her beloved husband, praying God to console him.
The Assemblies of God Church, Silver Valley fondly described Deborah
as a precious saint of the Lord who lived a major part of her life as
a born again child of God.
“She served the Lord and the body of Christ in a quiet and humble manner. She was a prayerful woman”, wrote the church.
Also in their tribute, The Full Gospel Business Men’s Fellowship
International – Nigeria, Tere-Ama chapter, Port Harcourt consoled with
the deceased’s family, expressing their shock and devastation when the
news of her demise reached them. The group described Deborah as a
committed member whose footprint and immense support would always be remembered.
Mrs. Deborah (Charity) Somiari, a pillar of strength and compassion,
passed away peacefully on Tuesday, November 22, 2022 at about 5 p.m.,
leaving behind a legacy of love and kindness.