News of the death of the mother of popular Nollywood actor, Jim Iyke, went viral last week. The 67 years old woman died on Monday, March 24, 2014.

A press statement made available by the actor’s publicist, Mitch Ngaman, stated that Jim Iyke’s mother, “Mrs Ngozi Gladys Okelue Esomugha, was born on May 3, 1947, and succumbed to a long battle with illness.”

The statement also quoted Jim Iyke to have said, “she (her late mum) was a force of nature. My big sis, my 1st wife, my confidante, my rock, my critique, my greatest fan and regal leader.

“She was a radiant, gorgeous woman with a smile bigger than the sun and always ready to embrace anyone for all the good and even wrong reasons.

“My sun is gone. The dull numbing ache in my heart will never be pacified by any woman alive. Not my lover, sisters nor even a daughter I may one day bear.

“The relationship of a mother and an only son is uniquely eternal and spiritual, transcending human comprehension. Mine with Gladys is even far strangely beyond that.

“They say it’s a blessing if a son buries his mother and not the other way around. I'm not sure they’re entirely right.

“They also said one never recovers from the loss of their mother. I hope they are right! May I never recover from the memories of your celestial love, sacrifices, warmth, your contagious laughter and merciless wit.

“Your enthusiasm for life and service of others was infectious. I’ll miss you each and every waking moment of my life. I know you're in a better place now.

“I’ll carry on everything you stood for ‘til my last days.

“You came and saw and conquered.

“Adieu Gladys from your boy Jim.

“I love you till the last breathe I take.”

Meanwhile, the family is yet to announce the funeral rites.