Executive Vice Chairman and Group Chief Executive Officer of Verdant Zeal Group, Dr. Tunji Olugbodi, has penned a moving posthumous birthday tribute to his late mother, Mrs. Grace Olabisi Adunni Olugbodi JP (1942–2026), who would have turned 84 today.
In an emotional reflection seen by Veracity Desk (veracitydesk.com), shared with family and associates, Dr. Olugbodi described his mother as the embodiment of joy, strength, and grace. Fondly called “Iya Tunji” and affectionately nicknamed “Voltron” by her children, Mrs. Olugbodi was remembered as a woman who lived selflessly, feeding, clothing, and praying for others throughout her lifetime.
“If joy had a name, it would be Grace Olabisi. If strength had a face, it would be yours. You never came to the world empty-handed. You were Grace in name and grace indeed,” Dr. Olugbodi wrote.
He noted that while her absence continues to leave a void, her legacy endures in the values she instilled — prayer, generosity, and unconditional love. According to him, her influence remains evident in the lives of her children and grandchildren, including the family’s newest addition, Josiah Olúwakàmíyejojo Olúwapàgóayòyímiká Olugbodi, born in July, who would have loved to be doted on by his grandmother.
Mrs. Olugbodi, who passed away earlier this year, was celebrated not only as a devoted mother but also as a pillar of faith and community service. Her son emphasized that the family continues to grow stronger, guided by the principles she embodied.
“We love you. We miss you. We honour you. We celebrate you today and always. Rest on, Iya mi,” he concluded.
The tribute underscores the enduring impact of Mrs. Olugbodi’s life — a matriarch remembered for her compassion, resilience, and unwavering devotion to God and family.
