The Umulolo, Umuokwara Abba community in Nwangele LGA, Imo State, received dignitaries, the clergy, friends, in-laws and well-wishers from across Nigeria and the diaspora on Friday, September 25, 2026, for the funeral rites of Mrs. Benedicta Ugochi Alinnor.
Mrs. Alinnor, beloved mother of author, Media Consultant and Managing Editor of P.M.EXPRESS, Mr. Arinze Alinnor, passed on to eternal glory on 21st July, 2026, at the age of 93.
A devout Catholic, Mrs. Alinnor lived her faith openly. Always spotted adorning the scapula and her rosary, she was known for her quiet generosity, her wise counsel to youths and her consistent presence in church activities. To many, she embodied true motherhood, espousing values of truth, service and faith.
Her burial rites commenced with lying-in-state at her husband’s compound, followed by a Requiem Mass at St. Theresa’s Catholic Church, Umuokwara Abba. The Mass was officiated by the outgoing Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Silver Ibe, alongside a good number of AHOBA C-Set priests led by Rev. Dr. Jude Ezike. Rev Fr. Hyginus Epunam, while taking the homily, counseled attendees on the need to live daily as expected of the followers of Christ. He equally eulogised the deceased, Mrs. Benedicta Ugochi Alinnor, for fighting a good fight of faith.
With the Requiem Mass over, Mrs. Ugochi Alinnor was thereafter interred at her husband’s compound, followed by reception and entertainment of guests.
While eulogising his mother in a chat with journalists after the interment, one of her children, Mr. Arinze Alinnor said:
“I had a special bond with my mom being her last child and we shared private conversations, which ordinarily she wouldn’t share with anyone else. I believe that I equally picked up my quiet and peaceful nature from her. I gained so much from her wealth of knowledge and anyone who knows me closely will testify to proverbs often credited to her. Even though we thank the Infinite Intelligence for the grace of longevity, I will miss her greatly. May her paths continue to be divinely illuminated”.
While commenting on Mrs. Alinnor’s demise, one of her nephews, Mr. Raphael Okechukwu Kamalu, said: “Of a truth I’ll surely miss Big Mama. She was my late dad’s bestie. We thank God for her life as we’re consoled by the fact that she lived a life of peace worthy of emulation. May her gentle soul find peace with the Almighty!”
Burial activities for Mrs. Benedicta Ugochi Alinnor were concluded on Sunday, September 27, 2026, with a Thanksgiving Mass at St. Theresa’s Catholic Church, Umuokwara Abba.