A PROVERBS 31 WOMAN AT 90:

CELEBRATING  A LIFE OF GRACE, STRENGTH, AND FAITH. 

MODUPE OLUFUNMILAYO JAIYESIMI

A couple of days ago, my mother turned ninety.

My siblings and I, along with family and friends from far and near, gathered to honour and celebrate ninety years of God’s amazing grace upon her life.

We celebrated ninety years of strength.

We celebrated ninety years of impact.

We celebrated ninety years of generosity.

We celebrated ninety years of pouring into the lives of all who have come in contact with her.

Personally, I have been overwhelmed—and quite emotional—reading the tributes and messages shared in her honour.

As I reflect on her life, I cannot help but think of the virtuous woman described in Proverbs 31—a woman clothed with strength and dignity, whose worth is far above rubies. For me, this is not just scripture; it is a living, breathing reality I have been privileged to witness in my mother.

My mother is a woman of quiet strength—focused, peace-loving, and steadfast. Life has not always been easy, yet she has faced each season with courage and unwavering faith. Even at ninety, she stands strong—a testament to resilience and grace.

“She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future.” — Proverbs 31:25 (NLT)

This verse comes alive in her.

My mother is wise, discerning, and remarkably knowledgeable. She builds bridges and holds no grudges. Her mind is sharp, her spirit vibrant. Whether solving Sudoku puzzles, engaging in meaningful conversations, or offering sound counsel, she continues to inspire all who encounter her.

My mother is also an accomplished educationist and administrator. She served with distinction as a Vice Principal at the Federal School of Arts and Science (FSAS), King’s College Lagos, and Queen’s College Lagos, where she helped shape not only academic standards but also the character and discipline of countless students.

Beyond the classroom, she continued her service as a member of the Board of Governors at Dowen College Lagos and as a Patroness, offering guidance, leadership, and wisdom. Her years in education were marked by excellence, structure, and a deep commitment to nurturing future generations—many of whom remain a living testament to her influence .

“When she speaks, her words are wise, and she gives instructions with kindness.” — Proverbs 31:26 (NLT)

My mother is also a giver—generous to a fault. She embodies kindness in action. From quietly supporting others through monthly giving, to checking in on friends and members of her church community, to organizing acts of kindness for women in her hometown, her life reflects selfless love.

“She extends a helping hand to the poor and opens her arms to the needy.” — Proverbs 31:20 (NLT)

And then there is her devotion to God.

Her life echoes the truth: “No matter what may come my way, my life is in Your hands.” She has weathered fierce storms, yet her trust in God remains unshaken. A true prayer warrior, she continues to meet faithfully with her prayer group—classmates of over seven decades—week after week, lifting up their children, their grandchildren, and our nation, Nigeria.

Her relationship with God has been her anchor, her strength, and her guide through the changing scenes of life.

Above all, she is a mother—not just to her children, but to many. Her home has always been open, her heart always willing, even when it was not convenient. She has nurtured, guided, and loved in ways words can hardly capture.

“Her children arise and call her blessed.” — Proverbs 31:28a (NIV)

And indeed, we do.

I am proud of her life, her legacy, and all she represents. It is a privilege—and a great honour I do not take lightly—to call her my mother.

At ninety, she remains elegant, vibrant, and full of life—matching her outfits with her signature style, reminding us all that grace never goes out of fashion.

One of my siblings described her as love personified, suggesting that if you replaced the word “love” in 1 Corinthians 13:4–7 with her name, it would still read true:

MODUPE OLUFUNMILAYO is patient and kind.

MODUPE OLUFUNMILAYO is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude.

She does not demand her own way. She is not irritable, and she keeps no record of being wronged.

She does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins.

MODUPE OLUFUNMILAYO never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance.

Today, I celebrate a woman of faith, strength, humility, and contentment.

A woman who loves the Lord.

And as we celebrate her ninety years of grace, we acknowledge that God’s grace has indeed been sufficient for MODUPE OLUFUNMILAYO JAIYESIMI.

Lord, we thank You for the gift of our mother.

Thank You for preserving her, strengthening her, and guiding her through every season.

We ask that You continue to surround her with Your peace, uphold her with Your strength, and fill her days with joy.

Let her legacy continue to shine for generations to come. 

Amen.

OLUYINKA EGO-MARTINS ©