Maggie Galega Yongho (Aunty Meg)
We are at a loss for words. It's incredibly hard to think that you are no longer with us physically. We can't stop shedding tears, even as we muster the little strength to pen this tribute to you. As we reflect on the memories we shared, we cannot help but be overwhelmed by the immense impact you had on our lives.
Uncle Joe, I don't know what miracle brought you and Uncle Sly together, but it was obvious that you were a blessing to us. In 2009, you did everything possible for us to secure our current home, and when we did, you organized our first BBQ to celebrate. What a light you brought to us! From the first day, you considered us family. You opened your home and your heart to us, providing love and unwavering support. You were well known in Charlotte as Mr Dumizo until I came along and immediately started calling you Uncle Joe, and today, everyone calls you Uncle Joe .
You introduced us to your family and asked us to consider your children as ours and love them in that light.
Through life’s up and down, as a lot transpired we got out of touch for a while but as soon as we heard of your diagnosis and reached out, you and Linda arranged for us to come over immediately. The tight hugs, the tears of joy, and nostalgia. You assured us that you were going to fight this. You requested your favorite Cameroonian dishes, and I promptly obliged. Although we took many pictures, those incredible memories are indelibly etched in our hearts.
You fought so hard to live and echoed this in our many conversations. We prayed so hard with and for you. You held on for as long as you could, got too tired, and needed to rest. Ooh, the beautiful pictures you sent to us on Christmas Day!
Thank you for blessing us with genuine love, friendship, and for all those life lessons you taught us. Thank you for providing a listening ear, a shoulder to lean on, and words of wisdom that always brought solace. Thank you for teaching us the importance of forgiveness.
To your loving wife, Linda, we pray for courage and strength to endure this difficult period. Though her path now seems dark as night, whenever she looks up, there'd be a guiding star to light up her path. Trust in God as you always have.
To your Children in whom you invested so much, and the rest of the family members - brother, nieces and nephews - whom you loved so much, even though you will not be physically present, we know, you will always hover over them and be a reassuring presence in all aspects of their lives.
Uncle Joe, may your soul find eternal peace knowing that your impact in this world will never be forgotten.
May the good Lord provide comfort, peace, fortitude, and grace to manage this loss.
Maggie Galega Yongho ( Aunty Meg) on behalf of The Yongho’s
