A mighty tree has fallen, the family, Worcester Public Schools, Burncoat High School have been thrown into a state of Mourning. Grieve Counselors have been put to work, my Great Cousin Gary Jojo Abaka Amuah (16) is no more. My “whys” are not being answered? I am still shocked and in a state of disbelief. Even though I never met him I have been told we look alike. The only difference, my spectacles.

Son of Auntie Bernice and Uncle Fifi Abaka Amuah of Worcester, MA. He was my first Cousin. In reality, a brother. We never met because my mother, my brothers and I relocated to Ghana when I was four. His death has been a big blow to me especially when I heard he was a basketball player. He would have been the future basketball star of Ghanaian descent.

As a basketball player myself, I think about him every time I am on the court. He will just pop up into my mind. I hear he grooved the court and did it in style and with dedication. In fact, he was “swag” For those who knew Jojo I am sure there are many special moments you had with him.

I keep on asking my mum “why now, for Jojo” but my mum who is very religious and a faithful Christian tells me to do my best and do what I can and leave the rest to God, for I know not when my time will come.

I was not eager to hear this wisdom, how can God call someone only 16, just too soon? I have learnt a lot. Indeed, life is not how you want it, but definitely what God wants for you.

God Perhaps did not want Gary to sin and seek for forgiveness again and again. He wanted him to come to Him with a pure heart, crystal as snow.

At 14, I am in the North Legon School complex basketball team and a junior golf player. Your memory will live with me forever. I will keep on “dunking” in your honour.

As you take your final Journey on Saturday April 5th 2014, I will not hesitate to state that a gap has been left in the family, the entire Ghanaian Community in Worcester, Worcester Public School and your numerous friends and loved ones.

I have read many posts and comments on your facebook wall and legacy.com.

They all confirm how great, humble and kindhearted you were. This confirms the saying “God always takes the best” I know in future, at the heaven gate, all I need to tell God and the angels is that “Gary is my cousin” and the gates will be opened for me.

Tell my kid sister Nana Akua we miss her. You went too soon at 16, Gary “Nante yie”

By Nana Korang Gyau

Student, North-Legon School Complex

North-Legon Accra

Son of Mr. Padmore Gyau

Uncle of Gary Abaka -Amuah

Email:egyau@hotmail.com