Dr. Anthony Adade, a prominent Ghanaian American based in Massachusetts, recently performed a series of solemn ceremonies in the USA to honor the life and legacy of his late mother, Obaapanin Hannah Abena Nyantah, who died in February 2024 at the age of 98.
The funeral, which attracted a wide range of attendees, took place on the weekend of October 12th and 13th in Worcester, Massachusetts.
The main funeral service was held at Saint Joan of Arc Church, located at 570 Lincoln Street, Worcester, MA. The event ran from 7 PM to 2 AM, where mourners dressed in black and red came together to celebrate the life of the matriarch.
The ceremony, characterized by cultural rites and tributes, served as an emotional farewell to Obaapanin Nyantah, whose earlier burial rites had already taken place in Ghana during the month of July.
Thanksgiving Service:
On Sunday, October 13, 2024, a Thanksgiving Service was held at Saint Paul’s Cathedral at 38 High Street, Worcester, MA, from 10 AM to 11 AM.
Dr. Adade and his family, along with friends and supporters, gathered in a more intimate setting to express their gratitude for a life well-lived.
The event highlighted not only their personal loss but also their faith and hope for the future.
After the Thanksgiving Service, attendees reconvened at Saint Joan of Arc Church for refreshments and further reflection from 4 PM to 12 AM.
The Legacy of Obaapanin Hannah Abena Nyantah
Obaapanin Nyantah was remembered for her strength, wisdom, and commitment to her family and community, both in Ghana and abroad.
Her passing was marked with grand ceremonies in Ghana from July 11th to 14th, 2024, which included a burial service and final funeral rites at Sepe-Buokrom, and her final resting place at Abira.
A large family gathering, and a Thanksgiving Mass were held in her honor at Oforikrom, Kumasi.
Tribute from the children of Obaapanin Hannah Abena Nyantah expressed deep sorrow over the loss of their beloved mother.
They reflected on life without her presence, acknowledging her endless love, care, and prayers for her family.
She is described as a selfless, hospitable, and inspirational person who valued hard work, discipline, and education.
She was not only their mother but also a friend, teacher, and spiritual guide.
Her children further expressed how much she was involved in their lives, even after they started their own families, taking care of their children as if they were her own.
Dr. Anthony Adade: A Rare Breed and a Unifier
Dr. Adade, known for his community leadership and advocacy, played a central role in organizing the event. He is a Ghanaian living in Massachusetts and works as an ITS executive in a major Massachusetts state university.
He is an advocate for education and quality healthcare for all. Dr. Adade has worked with numerous non-profit organizations in Central Massachusetts, including the African community in the Catholic Diocese of Worcester to establish a free Medical Program, catering to the health needs of patients regardless of ability to pay.
As a founding board chair, Dr. Adade continues to serve on the board of trustees for the St. Anne’s Free Medical Program in Massachusetts.
Although Dr. Adade was the first chairperson of NPP-USA Massachusetts, due to his contributions and service to the community, there was representation from the opposition party at his mother’s funeral.
Dr. Adade has that charisma of bringing people together.
