January 24
Dear Pastor Oluwafemi Lawani,
I write to express my deepest condolences on your passing. Your passing has left an indelible mark on my heart and mind.
You were a truly remarkable individual, a beacon of kindness and wisdom. Your unwavering faith and forward-thinking approach to life inspired countless individuals. You faced every challenge with unwavering determination, drawing strength from the unwavering word of God.
I had the privilege of seeing you return from Nigeria on December 5th and again on the 6th, Despite your exhaustion, you continued to work diligently throughout the day. I was unaware that this would be the last time I would have the opportunity to see you. However, I am certain that your legacy will live on forever in the hearts of those you touched.
Your life was a testament to the power of faith and perseverance. You fought the good fight, persevered through the challenges, and emerged victorious with unwavering faith. You have earned the crown of righteousness, and you will now rest in peace.
Until we meet again in the presence of Christ, my dear Pastor, you will be deeply missed.
MOSES OLABODE LADEGBAYE
January 12
Pastor Femi,
‘venisti, vidisti, victa es‘
2 Timothy 4:7-8
7. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 8. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.
Sun re o!!
Deji Afelumo & family
January 10
I still find it difficult to write of you in past- tenses- because truly you live, and you live on in me in the many words of wisdom as they reverberate in me. You live in the wise counsel. You live on in the templates of your conducts and mannerism. You live in us through the many examples/templates of truthful and faithful services to God and humanity. Your in-prints are clearly visible. You were a treasure fountain to all you came in contact with. There was always something for everyone to take away.
You are my brother-as a brother you taught me to love, respect and to keep the bonds of brotherhood, to be patient and tolerant of people, to live on principles even as I see from other people’s lenses. To be firm without being rude.
As my pastor. You lived out the realities of the scriptures without guile or pretense ensuring that the most important things are taken care of –my spiritual wellbeing even as I serve and please the master
As my friend. You taught me how to care! Always checking in on me and my state per time with your usual jovial introductory phrases ‘Oga funsho! Bawo ni, se o wa okay?’
Brother, you will be hugely missed but I am confident that you are reposed in Christ in the assembly of the congregation enrolled in Heaven, you are joined to the spirits of the righteous made perfect. Live on my brother, my pastor and my friend- till we meet to part no more
________________
ANDREW OLUFUNSHO LAWANI
(Brother)
January 10
Pastor Femi Lawani
You lived well. You embraced every moment. You had so many admirable qualities but the most endearing for me was how you made it comfortable to always get people to open up to you. I always felt comfortable to share my worries with you and always leaving with assurances that my worries are sorted.
You will be greatly missed
Rest on Pastor Femi
DARE LAWANI
(Cousin)
January 10
The past days has been like a dream, one that I am hoping I would wake up from, But alas it isn’t a dream, you are gone to be with your maker. If tears could bring you back, mine should have!
You said we shouldn’t morn, so here am I celebrating the life you lived, short but impactful.
You taught me life lessons that I will never forget, you are a very meticulous man, you say it as it is regardless of who is involved. A problem solver, each time I come crying to you, you spring into action immediately by proffering solutions.
The love in your heart transcends to everyone.
Yes! I would have loved that you still remained with us for another 50years, but God’s plans supersedes ours and we can only accepts his will.
We celebrate you Big Daddy London!
Let me too work hard and remain steadfast in Him so that I can see you again, and that time there will be no fear that you would leave us again.
Keep Resting Bro Femi
SEUNFUNMI LAWANI
(Sister-In-Law)
January 10
Waking up each day to the reality of the fact that I lost not only a brother but a friend and a father gives me pain and unexplained heart ache. You touched my life in ways too numerous to mention. You have created a vacuum no mortal man can feel. Your depth of knowledge, height of spirituality and width of love leaves me speechless. You dispense the truth no matter where, when or who it may concern. With you no matter is unsolvable because you always have solution to every challenge. Every day I bless God for the privilege of being your blood. You held onto the legacy bequeathed us by our father to the very end by serving God and blessing humanity this leaves me with the assurance that you have fought a good fight, kept the course and you have finished your race. You have now joined the host of angels and cloud of witnesses. You have laid down your sword at Jesus’ feet. Surely you are with your maker as to him all human have come and to him we shall return. I believe you are not dead but just changed destination because the legacies left behind cannot be eroded in decades to come. Sleep well by resting on the chest of your Creator till that resurrection morning when we shall meet to part no more. I can’t love you less brother because even in death you remain my HERO.
From your one and only
DEBORAH ADEYEGBE (Nee Lawani)
(Sister)
January 10
Big Daddy London, I miss you. I wish you didn’t have to go. Come back everyone misses you but I guess there is nothing anyone can do. Rest well in the bosom of the Lord
OLUWAFIREKUNMI ELIZABETH LAWANI
(Niece)
January 10
Big Daddy, I miss you. come back now, why did have to go?
Rest well
MORIREOLUWA
(Niece)
January 8
Pastor Femi!! A pastor who makes you feel seen, unjudged and yet able to let you know, God’s got you always!
As a mother of two young men who played Sunday league football I struggled to make time to attend church service every Sunday. When I was introduced to New Wine Church Dartford by my friend Barbara, It took only one service for me to feel at home. And so whenever I was able to I made it! Pastor Femi gave the personal touch of reaching out to his flock. He was personable, encouraging, relatable and human! A real loss to his family, loved ones and those he inspired.
He will be missed dearly! Rest Well Pastor and Thank you for your kindness and humanity. God Bless you and Keep you.
Juliette Adesina
January 8
I will miss you, Uncle Femi. Thank you for being a big brother, mentor, and friend.
When I first met you at Crusader Insurance’s Actuarial and Life offices, you made me feel welcome. Those long days seemed much shorter than they really were as I waited outside my mother’s office after my library visits. Thank you for your kindness.
You played an even greater role as an advisor, mentor, pastor, and employer when I began navigating adulthood. When my cousin and I felt uncomfortable with our initial accommodation during a visit to London, you provided us with a home and comfort. I’m not sure Seyi or I ever fully expressed how much of a lifesaver you were. Thank you.
During my postgraduate year in London, in one of the toughest moments of my life—alone and grieving the loss of my dad—you and your family once again opened your hearts and home to me. That year, I witnessed you model fatherhood and responsibility. I will never forget the cold Friday night drives from Woolwich to the airport. Those uplifting memories will stay with me forever. Thank you.
You attended my graduation and even those of other members of my family, despite the distance. That was such an honor. Even as an Arsenal fan, you still bought me my first Chelsea jersey. Thank you.
When I was irresponsible in my relationships, you gave me wise counsel on how to be more considerate and self-aware. Listening to you played a significant role in my decision to get married. Thank you.
When I moved away from London 13 years ago and then got married 10 years ago, life became busier. But no matter where I lived or what I was doing, I’m so glad we kept in touch. You never stopped being my big brother, pastor, and friend. Thank you.
I regret thinking I had more time—planning a visit that never happened. But I am comforted knowing you were a child of God. I hold onto the hope of seeing you again in heaven, where I can smile, embrace you, and once again say, “Thank you.”
Gigaloluwa Ilori
December 27, 2024
Pastor Fem, my fellow Gooner.
Writing this tribute is an herculean task for me, but given the fact of who you were; forthright, honest, humble, Godly & God fearing, hardworking, jovial and respectful, I cannot but pen this little tribute.
Though your living can be considered short by us mere mortals, I want to believe and hold onto the fact that in God; it has been very impactful, purposeful and divine.
Despite being older than you; I have great respect for your deep intellect in several fields and I have also learnt so much from you.
The holy book admonished us in 1 Thessalonians 4: 13 & 14 not mourn like the unbelievers.
With this admonition, I will like to hold onto and I have high hope that we will meet again at Jesus feet.
Sleep well brother and rest in peace in the bosom of your maker.
1 Thessalonians 4:13. Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope.14. For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him.
Selah.
Ademola Obembe
December 24, 2024
I am so so speechless and in total disbelief of this stack reality that BenLaw is no more! There was never a dull moment with you…. Your vibrance and huge sense of humor right from way back at Command Secondary School, Ibadan had a special capacity and “revivery” effect on any dampened spirit .
The world will surely miss a priceless gem like you, and so will all your loved ones.
Rest well brother until that glory morning when we shall meet to part no more.
ERNEST ORIABURE
December 24, 2024
Hmmmm! It is still a great shock to me and still in doubt if my friend of childhood has just departed to great beyond.
You know me as Oderin and we fondly call you Ben-law..
I know we are sojournrer in this sinful world but we are praying for God’s mercy to live long but as it willeth our God He performs.
You have fought the good fight and won my dear friend..rest on and even though it saddened our hearts for your sudden departure..we still believe that you are in the best place.
Adieu my man of God…may heaven receive you onto the right side of our heavenly father.
Goodnight dear friend!
Adeyemi Bamidele
December 24, 2024
Benlaw! my brother and friend of over 40 years from childhood in CSSIB. I could not hold my tears when your wife confirmed that it’s true that you left for the higher glory…
You fought a good fight of faith and ran your race as you wanted! You impacted lives and put smiles on faces you’ve met.
You legacy within our class mates will forever be cherished. We love you dearly brother…
Sleep well until we meet to part no more my brother.
Seems short but impactful life!
Manny Agholor
December 24, 2024
Benjamin,
What a rude shock this is! The last time I saw you was at your restaurant on Plumstead High Street. As always, we had such a laugh teasing you about the name of your restaurant, turning it into a playful joke. We eventually moved on to our usual chats about the kids and the challenges of getting them into grammar schools.
I still remember saying goodbye after that free, sumptuous meal you generously served. I promised to check on you again, but life got in the way, and I never did. After all, as we joked, it was “Ben-law Cover-up,” right?
Now, I’ve come to realize how much we take for granted our time, our relationships, and those precious moments that seem so ordinary at the time. It’s hard to accept that you are no longer with us, but I take comfort in the fact that you’re now in a place free of pain, worries, and the struggles of this world.
We will miss you deeply. There will be no one to tell the funny tales about the “Benjamin Cover-Up” song or to share those warm, lighthearted moments that made you so special. Your absence leaves a void that cannot be filled, but your memory will live on in our hearts forever.
May the Lord grant you eternal rest, and may He give your family the strength to bear this heartbreaking loss. Goodnight, dear friend. You will always be remembered.
Olamide Sadiq-Ogbemudia
December 20, 2024
“To my beloved junior brother, Ben-Law,
Though you’re no longer with us physically, your memory and legacy live on in my heart. I’ll forever cherish the moments we shared, the laughter, and the adventures.
Your kind heart, compassionate spirit, and infectious smile touched countless lives. I’m so proud of the person you were becoming – strong, resilient, and faithful.
As your Senior brother, it was my privilege to watch you grow, support you through life’s ups and downs, and celebrate your triumphs. Though your time with us was brief, your impact will be felt for years to come.
Rest in peace, dear Ben-Law. You’ll forever be in my thoughts, prayers, and heart. I love you, Femi Lawani”
Matthew 5:4 NLT
God blesses those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
Rev. Lawani Clement Idowu.
December 19, 2024
Pastor Femi… I’m speechless! Still trying to make sense of your departure. I guess according to scripture, we know in part and we understand in part.
Your legacy is one that will never be forgotten with time; you touched and impacted so many lives, of which I’m one. Thank you for giving yourself to the Lord and to your world.
You were a brother, a mentor, an encourager, a motivator and a role model. We will definitely miss you. I will definitely miss you. You taught us to keep moving, no matter what, and never to make excuses in life… We will keep moving on, just like you will want us to. Sleep on my big brother till we meet to part no more.
Elizabeth N
December 19, 2024
Femo, Femo ! as I fondly called you then.
To say your demise is a shock to me will be an understatement. It’s more than a shock death but a painful, terrible and unexpected SHOCK death.
Nothing is hidden from God including your demise as everything is laid bear before Him.
I strongly believe that you are sleeping in the bossom of the Lord as you were an addent lover of things of God since I knew you in 1994 at LIFE Chapel inside LIFE Theological Seminary, Ikorodu till your untimely death.
In your lifetime, you were truthful, bold with great integrity.
You were not an in-law to me but a younger brother and a good friend in all ways.
During the preparation of my marriage, you were the only one who stood with my wife in thick and thin period she passed through though you were still undergoing your NYSC scheme then in the northern part of the country. You equally still stood by her during the marriage. I am so indebted to you for this great course.
Your demise is a painful one but no one can question ❓ God as He knows better. The Lord will grant your family the fortitude and grace to bear this irreparable loss. God almighty will fill the vacuum your demise has created in Jesus name. This kind of untimely and sudden death will not happen in our lives and families in Jesus name.
Rest in perfect peace Femo, Femo !
Yinka Afolayan
December 19, 2024
I was shocked when I heard the news of your departure from this world to eternity. Till now I wished it wasn’t true! Hhhhmmm! No matter what comes our ways as Christians we have learnt to say “It is well.”
At this point I need to take a moment to honor Femi Lawani someone who meant so much to me and to so many others. He was more than a cousin to me but “Omo Iya mi.” Among all my cousins from the Lawani as we grew together, Femi was the closest to me. He was an understanding person. He was very bold and truthful to his words. He loved God and the things of God. I can boldly say, he served God with all his heart till he departed from this world to meet our Master, Lord Jesus Christ.
He was a person I cherished as well cos there was a time in my journey in life when I couldn’t see anyone to stay by me, Femi stood by me through that period against all odds which I was grateful to God for how he allowed God to use him.
Femi was the kind of person who was always there. I will always remember him. Whether it was his kindness, his strength or his unwavering support or his love for God. Femi had a way of leaving an impact wherever he went.
Thank you, Femi for everything. We’re also privileged to have known you.
May the Lord keep and preserve his immediate family and extended family he left behind in Jesus Christ Mighty name amen.
Rest on Soldier of the Lord!
We will meet at the feet of our Master where we part no more!
Kikelomo Afolayan
December 19, 2024
Right within me,I can’t believe you are no more.”My big daddy in London”as my daughter Oluwapamilrinayo Lawani use to call you.
My daughter and I will forever missed you I pray that God Almighty will give ur Lovely wife with heart of gold,ur beautiful daughters and the entire Lawani’s family the fortitude to bear the great loss of an icon.
May you gentle soul rest in peace.
Kehinde Abegunde
December 17, 2024
Pastor Femi, I received with shock your passing to Glory, I am still dumbfounded and difficult to believe.
You are a great General of God’s army and your works will forever leave on.
Adieu,
Olusesan Okunade
December 17, 2024
Tribute Speech to a Brother
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Good day
Thank you all for being here today as we gather to honor and celebrate the life of my beloved brother, Benjamin Olufemi Lawani. I am Lawani David, and it is both a privilege and a deeply emotional task to stand before you and share my thoughts about the incredible and wonderful person my brother was.
My brother was not just a sibling; he was my best friend, my confidant, and my hero. From our earliest days, he was always there for me, guiding me, protecting me, and sharing in every adventure and challenge that life brought our way.
One of my fondest memories of Olufemi lawani is when we used to share a specific childhood memory, such as building forts, playing sports, or going on family trips, his sense of adventure and his boundless enthusiasm made every moment unforgettable. He had an uncanny ability to make even the simplest activities feel extraordinary.
Femi was a person of immense strength and character. He faced challenges with a resilience and determination that inspired everyone around him. He taught me the value of perseverance and the importance of standing up for what you believe in, no matter the odds. He understands my strengths and weaknesses.
What I will always cherish about my brother is unwavering kindness and generosity. He had a heart of gold and was always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need. Whether it was offering support to a friend, helping a neighbor, or volunteering in the community, his selflessness touched many lives and left a lasting impact.
My brother was also a person of great wisdom and insight. He was always there to offer advice, to listen, and to provide a different perspective. His counsel was invaluable to me, and I knew that I could always count on him for guidance and support.
As I stand here today, I am filled with gratitude for the time we had together. Although I wish we could have had more time, I am comforted by the countless memories we created and the lessons we share together. His legacy lives on in the values he instilled in the family, in the love he showed to our family, and in the positive impact he had on everyone who knew him. And for the Christ life he lives.
Femi thank you for being a role model, a mentor, and my best friend. Thank you for the love, the laughter, and the countless memories. I will carry your memory in my heart forever and strive to honor you in all that I do.
In closing, I would like to share a quote that reminds me of my brother: “Brothers are like stars; you may not always see them, but you know they’re always there.” Femi, your love and your legacy will live on in all of us. Thank you for everything. I will greatly miss you and I don’t think anyone else could feel your position in my heart.
Thank you, everyone, for being here today to honor my brother.
Lawani David Olayiwola
Snr Brother of Femi.
December 17, 2024
Pastor Femi,
Thank you for your life, service, and faithfulness to your community and the body of Christ at large. We were not very close, but my knowledge and experience of you at New Wine Church was of a man who loved his family, loved God and was intentional about living a purpose driven life!
I still saw you a few months back filled with so much life playing table tennis at the Obe’s residence with such passion and youthful energy, so it feels strange to be writing this tribute. However, we submit to the sovereignty of God and “we will not grieve like people who have no hope” because are assured of your eternity with Christ. 1 Thess 4:13
Heartfelt condolences to the Lawani Family and relatives at large. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
With Love
Dayo & Melody Ayodele
December 17, 2024
Waking up each day to the reality of the fact that I lost not only a brother but a friend and a father gives me pain and unexplained heart ache. You touched my life in ways too numerous to mention. You have created a vacuum no mortal man can feel. Your depth of knowledge, height of spirituality and width of love leaves me speechless. You dispense the truth like ATM dispensing cash no matter where, when or who it may concern. With you no matter is unsolvable Cos you always have solution to every challenge. Every day I bless God for the privilege of being your blood. You held onto the legacy bequitted us by our father to the very end by serving God and blessing humanity this leaves me with the assurance that you have fought a good fight, kept the course and you have finished your race. You have now joined the host of angels and cloud of witnesses. You have laid down your sword at Jesus’ feet. Surely you are with your maker as to him all human have come and to him we shall return. I believe you are not dead but just changed destination because the legacies left behind cannot be eroded in decades to come. Sleep well by resting on the chest of your Creator till that resurrection morning when we shall meet to part no more. I can’t love you less brother cos even in death you remain my HERO. From your one and only sister DEBORAH
Deborah lawani -Adeyegbe
December 16, 2024
It is with a very heavy heart that I write this message, filled with grief and a deep sense of loss. I can hardly find the right words to convey the sadness I feel since hearing about your passing. You were not just a big brother to me, but a mentor, a guide, and someone I looked up to with the utmost respect and admiration. The impact you had on my life is immeasurable, and your absence leaves a profound emptiness in my heart.
I’ve often reflected on the way you helped shape who I am today, and I can’t help but remember the time when you became my first employer in July 2009 after graduating from Covenant University in June 2009 for my B.Sc. The opportunity you gave me wasn’t just a job; it was a chance to work and walk closely with you to learn, to grow, and to understand the true value of hard work and dedication. You didn’t just teach me the skills I needed to succeed in my career, but you instilled in me the principles of integrity, compassion, and resilience. These lessons have stayed with me throughout my life, and I carry them with me in everything I do. You showed and taught me hardwork, dignity of labour, an example of being an ambassador of God in business, and in the marketplace.
I remember the early days when I started working with you. You led by example, and the way you treated everyone with fairness and respect made such an impression on me. You never saw yourself as superior; instead, you always worked alongside your team, offering guidance and support when needed. I’ve seen many leaders in my life, but none had the quiet strength and humility that you possessed. Your wisdom wasn’t just in your knowledge; it was in your ability to make everyone around you feel valued and appreciated, all in a way that pleases the Lord. Everyone of our customers then called you “Pastor” and you lived the values of being a man of God, everyone saw Jesus through you.
I can’t help but think of the many fond memories I have of the time I spent with you and your family. We met when you and Aunty Tayo had just two children (Timi and Dami), and I remember the joy and love that filled your home. It was a privilege to watch your family grow over the years, I remember the bible verses you would share with us every day and encourage your children to consciously know and live the word of God. Each of them is a testament to the love and care you both put into raising your family. You were always such a devoted father, showing your children the importance of hard work, kindness, and perseverance. Your role as a father was something I admired deeply, and I could see the pride in your eyes whenever you spoke about them.
Over the years, you became not just my big brother, but a dear friend, someone who I could always turn to for advice, support, and encouragement. No matter what was going on in my life, you always made time to listen, offering words of wisdom or a comforting presence that made everything seem a little easier. Your generosity and kindness were endless, and I always felt that I could rely on you, no matter the circumstance. Even when I dropped the ball, you spoke the bitter truth to me, and always encouraged me to always do better and be better.
Your sense of humor, your ability to laugh even in tough times, and your positivity in all situations are some of the many qualities that I will always carry with me. You had an incredible ability to make everyone around you feel at ease. Whether we were having a serious conversation or just enjoying each other’s company, I always felt like I was in the presence of someone truly special. You had a way of making the most ordinary moments feel extraordinary, and for that, I am forever grateful.
The world seems so dark without you in it. Losing you feels like losing a part of myself, someone who helped guide me through both my personal and professional life. Your legacy lives on in the countless lives you touched, and in the way you made this world a better place simply by being in it. You were a light in so many people’s lives, and that light will continue to shine through all the memories and lessons you’ve left behind.
As I think about your life, the impact you’ve had on everyone around you, and the love you gave to your family, I am reminded that while you may no longer be with us in physical form, your spirit will forever live on. You’ve left behind a legacy that will continue for generations, through your children, your friends, and everyone whose lives you touched.
I know that the pain of your loss will never truly go away, but I take comfort in the thought that you are now in a place of peace. I hope you know how much you were loved and how deeply you will be missed. I will always cherish the memories we shared, the lessons you taught me, and the kindness you showed to me and my family. You were so much more than an uncle — you were a true mentor, a source of strength, and a role model who will forever have a place in my heart.
To Aunty Tayo, Timilehin, Dami, Victoria and Esther, and the rest of the family, my heart is with you all during this incredibly difficult time. I hope that together we can find solace in the beautiful memories of Pastor Femi and honor his life by living with the same integrity, kindness, and love that he embodied every single day.
Rest in peace, Pastor Femi, you will always be in my thoughts, and I will carry you with me every step of the way. I love you.
Paul Oluwaseyi Adeyemi
December 15, 2024
Heaven has gained an angel.
Pastor Femi, you were a great leader, father and pastor to everyone. You took my family like yours, I will miss your fatherly counsel and I wish I spent more time learning from your counsel and preaching.
I know you are in a better place.
Psalm 116:15: “Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints.”
Splendour Peter
December 15, 2024
It really came as a shock to us when we learnt about your demise. You were a loving person who was always there for people. I remember how you would call me (Sister Ebi) and my husband (coach Stephen) as you laughed . I remember at the hospital when we lost our baby, we prayed together hoping he would wake up but he didn’t. Why did you leave so soon? God knows best and we will forever miss you . So much ❤️
Ebi jasmine and Stephen E
December 14, 2024
Pst Femi,
I am so glad I got to know you. I am glad you served God whilst you were with us. We take solace knowing that your absence in the body is present with the Lord. I will truly miss you. You were the one person that will never miss calling on my birthday. May God comfort all of us left behind most especially your family.
Esther Elujoba
December 14, 2024
Arch Bishop – Awaiting Pope
You will forever be missed bruv.
Thank you for the legacy left behind.
Forever remember your love and passion for God and His kingdom.
Memory of the righteous is blessed….
Femi Abimbola
Click here to listen to a final word from Pastor Femi Lawani
