Tributes

Dad losing you has been an indescribable experience, bringing forth a flood of memories and emotions. As I reflect on his life and the impact you had on me I am filled with gratitude and a deep sense of loss.

From my earliest years, you played a pivotal role in shaping who I am today. You ensured I received a private school education during my primary years, setting a solid foundation for my future. Your occasional words of wisdom during my teenage years and early twenties were like guiding stars, helping me navigate the often tumultuous waters of growing up.

Our home was always filled with laughter and warmth, much of it stemming from your unique and endearing habits. You always had a pot of fish jollof on the stove, which would be left for days and reheated whenever you felt peckish. Your infectious laugh could be heard several houses away, often making our neighbors join in the mirth. These moments of shared laughter are some of my most cherished memories.

Dad, you had a knack for finding humorous ways to avoid eating out, often claiming, "Oh, I'm fasting," as your go-to excuse. Even as an adult, you insisted on holding my hand when crossing the road, a small but profound gesture of your enduring care and protection. Our daily interactions were punctuated by the familiar "ping" of a WhatsApp message, usually a religious note that you wanted to share with me. You had a distinctive way of ending phone messages with the word "over," a habit you picked up from your days in the Merchant Navy. I have memories of you drawing out my name in that special way: "Ma-wu-li…eh."

The last time I saw you was at Stratford train station. True to your caring nature, you insisted on walking me there. As we waved goodbye, you said, "Take care of yourself, eh." Those words have stayed with me, a final gift from a father who always put his family first.

The loss is a profound wound, but your legacy of love, wisdom, and laughter will forever be a part of me. Dad, take care of yourself. Your love and guidance will always be with me.

With love,
Isaac (Mawuli)

To my father, Franklin Kobla Agbotui

During my early years, my father was often away at sea, I always knew you as my father, but it wasn't until your retirement that I truly came to know you as the man who would profoundly shape the person I am today. I am forever thankful for the time we shared.

More than your words, your actions, and demeanor set a compelling example of lifelong self-improvement. Whatever task you undertook, surviving cancer, maintaining your health to pursuing education, you approached it with unwavering determination. Dad, you demonstrated to me that learning is a perpetual journey, your thirst for knowledge didn’t cease with retirement, you earned a degree in Business & Economics from East London University.

You always made it a point to stay well-informed and up-to-date with current affairs. I will deeply miss the time we spent watching the news and discussing politics. Dad, you explored the world, your tales of global adventures sparked my desire to explore the world. Reflecting on your departure from Ghana all those years ago, I realized the world must have seemed much larger and daunting back then, and the courage and sense of adventure you must have had to embark on a life at sea.

Your warmth and kindness were undeniable; wherever we went, you were warmly greeted by acquaintances who knew you by name, always with a smile. It's easy to see why you were so well-liked, whether for your infectious laughter and humor or how you ended each phone call with “over and out” you will always be the captain.

I will miss you dearly. Your physical presence is gone, but your spirit endures in me and in all whose lives you touched. As you embark on your final journey home, may you rest in peace.

Love you Dad

Edem Agbotui

Dear Dad,

As I sit down to write this, a flood of memories washes over me, each one a testament to the incredible father you were. You taught me so much, not just through your words, but through your actions and the way you lived your life.

One of my fondest childhood memories involves you. I must have been about four years old; you were getting a drink in the kitchen, and I looked up at you, hoping you’d let me have some. You looked down and said, “You want some?” I never hesitated, and you poured a little into my yellow plastic cup. That memory still makes me smile.

When Isaac, Edem, and I were younger, you rewarded us with £1 for every book we read. If we finished a book quickly, we were often called "skipper" for skipping pages. It still makes me laugh when I think about that, Dad. Those moments gave us good discipline and fond memories.

I remember one time visiting you in London, we were talking about music. You played some old soul singers like Teddy Pendergrass and Rev. Al Green. You wanted to listen to some of the CDs I had with me, and one song’s chorus from the song "A Beautiful Morning" by The Rascals "Cause even though the birds aren’t singing and the sun isn’t shining, It looks like a beautiful morning". You loved it and kept singing it over and over, smiling to yourself. That was your way of finding joy in the simple things.

Your love for music, your laughter, and your ability to make everyday moments special are things I will carry with me forever.

I’ll see you again sometime, and we’ll catch up on the years gone by. Until then, take care, Dad.

Love, Senam

Dear Franklin,

During your life, you have traveled many miles, far and wide. I traveled with you for part of that journey and in time we were joined by our three wonderful and much-loved sons. Now your travels are over, and you have returned to the land of your birth. At your journey’s end may you find the peace and rest that you have sought. We remember you with kind thoughts.

Lindsay

I’m so happy I got to meet Frank. He welcomed me into the family with open arms the first time we met, and this kindness and warmth was extended to every visit since.

He will be dearly missed but his big smile and warm hugs will always be remembered ❤️ 

Goodbye Grand Dad,

I know I didn't have much time with you but I am grateful for the times I did have. I hope you rest easy.

I love you.

Leah Agbotui

A Solemn Tribute to Captain Franklin Kobla Agbotui 

Franklin Kobla Agbotui, my beloved younger brother, you were a perfect gentleman, devoted father, and esteemed sailor. Your presence in our lives was marked by grace, strength, and unwavering dedication. Growing up together, we shared countless memories that forged a deep and enduring bond between us.

From our earliest days, we were inseparable. We navigated the challenges of childhood and celebrated each other's successes. Your adventurous spirit and disciplined nature defined your remarkable career as a sailor. Your calm demeanor and genuine care for others made you a beacon of light in our family and community. Despite the age gap between us, we were as close as twins, sharing the same bed and meals during our school days.

When you applied to the Nautical College, I had no fears because of your love for adventure and swimming. You made a successful career and rose to become a Master Mariner. Your strength, kindness, and generosity were evident in your support for family and friends, even from afar.

As a sailor, your resilience and fortitude were inspiring. The tales from the sea were lessons in bravery, teamwork, and the importance of staying grounded. Your approachable nature, subtle humor, infectious laughter, and warm smile were constant sources of joy. You treated everyone with kindness, humility, and respect, and were endearing to many. In retirement, despite a demanding life at sea, you continued to pursue academic courses.

My dear brother, Kobla, your passing has left a void in my life, especially before losing my dear wife, your soulmate, Dzifa. Little did I know that you would leave us so soon. You called only a few weeks ago, planning to visit home, and I expected you before the end of the year.

Though Kobla you are no longer with us in person, your spirit continues to guide and inspire us. Your legacy lives on in the values you instilled and the love you generously shared. As your elder brother, I will always cherish the special bond we shared and the profound impact you had on my life.

You will forever be missed by all of us.

Joshua

“Through all the changes scenes of life, In trouble and in joy, The praises of my God shall still My heart and tongue employ”

-Nahum Tate

I am still finding it very difficult to come to terms with your tragic death, Uncle Frank, even though I was by your bedside with Freda (your Church Acting Catechist), and your beautiful sons Mawuli, Edem, and Senam to the last day when you set on your journey out of this world to your maker and the ancestors.

It’s so sad that I will no longer share good morning greetings, good old music, memories, advice, laughter, etc with you. You were our pride as a father figure in the UK.  My children are missing you so much and the thought of not meeting with you again at the usual spot in Stratford Westfield is so unthinkable for them.

You were the embodiment of a gentleman who carried an air of calm and a peaceful aura of dignity around you.

Your manner of readiness to support me at any given time, when called to represent a father, was immensely appreciated by my children and me.

Thank you so much for your unwavering support.

Uncle Frank, this separation is painful and difficult to comprehend. However, I believe you are now with the Lord, where there's no fear or pain. May you rest peacefully in the bosom of God and those who have already faithfully departed.

Babaa na wo sia. Hede nyuie uncle Frank (Capitano) OVER AND OUT.

Uncle Kobla,

In the tapestry of our lives, you were a thread of gold, weaving strength, wisdom, and love through every moment we shared. Your presence was a steady beacon, guiding us with unwavering light, even in the darkest of times.

You were not around a lot while I was growing up but whenever you passed through you made up for lost time in a short period. My relationship with you matured when I arrived in the UK in 2001. “Johnny Just Come”, “Aba Fresh”. Quickly I realized I was an adult, on my own, and couldn’t afford to mess up. You became my sounding board, offering advice and support, and asking probing questions. You always had to have the last laugh by making fun of me, saying, "How could you have gotten it so wrong?" Your humor and perspective turned my mistakes into lessons wrapped in laughter.

You were more than an uncle; you were my father figure. Your guidance shaped my decisions, and your wisdom lit my path. Age was never a boundary for you; your heart connected with everyone. You always called and sent messages, representing me with pride and unwavering support.

Our times together were filled with laughter and joy; even making time to make fun of your elder brother; my Dad. We could talk about anything, truly anything. You were my confidant and my rock. You connected with my friends, becoming a father figure and friend to them as well. You joined them in making jokes about me, creating an atmosphere of warmth. My friends even named you "The Cool Uncle."

Even though you have departed from this earthly realm, your spirit remains with us. We see you in the sunrise and the sunset, reminding us of your gentle wisdom. We feel your presence in quiet moments, a comforting warmth enveloping us.

Uncle Kobla, your legacy is in the lives you touched and the values you instilled.

Thank you, Uncle Kobla, for everything. You will be missed and forever cherished.

With love and gratitude,

Eli

To live is Christ and to die is gain (Philippians 1:21) KJV

Capt. Franklin Kobla Agbotui was a member of the Evangelical Presbyterian Church of Ghana (UK). He joined the Tottenham Parish on 10 July 2016. He truly manifested the love of Christ in every facet of his Christian life, he impacted everyone who had contact with him with his calmness, his generosity, and humility. 

He was a member of the Men’s Fellowship. He will travel from East London to North London as one of the early birds to church and assist with setting up and packing up after service. 

He was willing and available to read/ recite part of the order of service during the pandemic when the service was online. He loved and shared songs on the church WhatsApp platform. He participated as a member of a co-opted committee to review the church’s welfare constitution. 

Captain Franklin was a friendly and respected elder in our church, his friendship was genuine without hypocrisy. He had a wicked sense of humour and a welcoming smile with noticeable laughter.

You have fought a good fight, finished the race, and deserved a crown. Fare thee well Captain Franklin, we will miss you, we believe you had received our Lord Jesus Christ…. such will be the source of our comfort. 

Now the labourer’s task is over.

Now the battle day is past. 

Now upon the father’s shore

Lands the voyager at last. 

Rest In Perfect Peace

Hede Nyuie, Mawu ne nor kpli wo….

“His life was gentle, and the elements so mixed in him, that Nature might stand up and say to the world “This was a gentleman!” 

- Shakespeare 

Capt. Franklin Agbotui, affectionately called Uncle Franklin, was a well-loved member of our church, EP Church, North London. Within the church, he was a valued member of the Men’s Fellowship.

Uncle Franklin was a humble gentleman who espoused Christian values to a standard to which we all aspire. He was always well-presented and punctual at church. He had a contagious smile and never had a crossword with anyone

Uncle Franklin loved music and his culture. He was well versed in “Soul” (Motown) music and had a passion for “Agbadza”.

Uncle Franklin discovered his niche in the church, during the pandemic when all church interactions went online. Since then, he regularly posts on the church WhatsApp platform.
We were intrigued by how he skillfully combined music and culture to put across the Christian message.

His posts were motivational, entertaining and reminiscent of our youth, so we looked forward to the next!
The platform is quieter now, but the melody of Capt. Agbotui’s legacy lives on!

Uncle Franklin, it is so depressing that you have been taken away so suddenly and so tragically.
It is our prayer that the good Lord comforts you and grants you eternal rest.
You have left an indelible mark on EP Church, north London.
Goodbye Uncle Franklin!

Hedenyuie!!