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Pastor Z.A Omotayo

Family · August 2025

To my Dad, with all my Love

From Hannah Idowu Funke Omotayo

Daddy,

You were a light in every sense — full of life, love, and laughter that could lift anyone's spirits. Your generosity knew no bounds, your wisdom shaped me, and your humor? It was unmatched. You had a knack for turning any moment into a joyful one, with jokes that could make a whole room erupt in laughter. Your faith was a cornerstone, and your prayers for me felt like a warm, protective embrace.

I'll always cherish how special you made me feel. When you called me "Cinderella" or "my Cindy-Cindy," it wasn't just a nickname, it was a reminder of how deeply you loved me. Those names still echo in my heart, bringing back the warmth of your smile. Even my love for bread, something so simple, traces back to you. You had a way of passing on the things you loved, weaving them into who I am.

I remember those days in primary school when my teacher would suddenly call out: "Omotayo Hannah, your daddy's here!" My heart would race, knowing you'd be waiting with goodies. You were a dad who delighted in making us smile, sharing stories, and filling our lives with joy. Those moments are treasures I'll carry forever.

Even as I grew into my Gen Z world, you never stopped trying to understand me. You'd listen, adapt, and meet me where I was, bridging the gap between your generation and mine with love and effort. That meant everything. It showed me how much you cared, how you'd always find a way to connect.

Daddy, I miss your prayers — those heartfelt words that felt like a shield around me. I miss your stories, your gists, your booming laughter, and the countless ways you showed your love. The void you've left is heavy, but it's matched by the gratitude I feel for every moment we shared.

Your legacy lives on in the kindness you showed, the faith you instilled, the generosity you modeled, and the joy you spread. You taught me to pray with purpose, to give with an open heart, to love without hesitation, and to live with laughter. Those lessons are etched in me, guiding me every day.

I promise to honor you by living out what you taught me: to pray, to give cheerfully, to love deeply, and to live with joy. Your stories will stay alive in me, and every time I think of "Cindy-Cindy," I'll smile through the tears.

Rest peacefully, Daddy. Your Cinderella will always love you.