By Sulaimon Olanrewaju
Going by the testimonies of those who knew and related closely with him, Elder (Engr.) Olufunmilayo Sunday Makinde was a man whose heart was with the peopleāa man who went out on a limb for others, making humanity his constituency.
Sundo, as he was fondly called, was up and about on the Thursday preceding his demise. His itinerary that day was reminiscent of the life he ledāreaching out to several people, holding meetings with friends, associates, and family members before retiring home in the evening. Throughout that day, he was just being himself: encouraging people, challenging them, and lending a voice, a hand, or a shoulder to those in need.
He was said to have been hale and hearty that Thursday evening, only for his passing to be announced early on Friday. He was full of life one moment and gone the nextāa stark reminder of the temporariness of life. Humans are but birds of passage, unable to abide on earth forever. At some point, each of us must bow out. We are like mistāvivacious and vibrant one moment, lifeless and inert the next.
For Engr. Sunday Makinde, Friday, January 24, 2025, was exit time. He was only 65 years old. The suddenness of his departure and the brevity of his life accentuated the pain of his loss, leaving many in shock and disbelief. Not until his remains were lowered into the grave on Friday, February 7, 2025, did many come to terms with the reality of his transition.
Though Elder Makinde didnāt live long, solace is found in the words of Ralph Waldo Emerson:
“It is not the length of life that matters, but the depth of life.”
The brevity of his life may have caused pain, but its depth also spurred joy. His life was meaningful because of its quality, impact, and memories. Death can rob a man of life, but it cannot steal his memories. Memory is the successor of lifeāintangible yet indestructible.
For Engr. Olufunmilayo Sunday Makinde, his memory is a treasure cherished by family, friends, and associates.
Tributes from Loved Ones
Chief Olumuyiwa Makinde (Younger Brother, Bada Olubadan of Ibadanland)
Reflecting on his brotherās impact, he described him as a courageous, compassionate, and considerate person.
“Your life was a testament to strength, resilience, and wisdom. You lived through triumphs and challenges, and through it all, you remained a beacon of hope, kindness, and compassion. Your guidance, counsel, and love kept the family together even after our parents’ demise.
“I will forever cherish the memories of our laughter, our stories, our quiet moments together, and the days we disagreed to agree for a greater cause. Your presence was a comforting reassurance, a haven, and a reminder of the importance of family love and tradition.”
Governor ‘Seyi Makinde (Younger Brother)
To Governor āSeyi Makinde, the late Elder Makinde symbolized inspiration, integrity, and industry.
“You were my example; you showed me that it was possible to achieve my dreams if I remained focused. You broadened my horizons with your own exploits and influenced my decision to get my first degree before joining the military. Unlike you, I was unsuccessful in that bid to join the military afterward.
“Sundo, you have left behind a legacy of hard work and showed me that honesty is, in fact, the best policy, as you were a straight-talking man of principle. You were candid, and I could always tell where I stood with you. You were the voice of reason in our family, a true firstbornāthe binder.”
Pastor Omololu Makinde (Younger Brother)
For Pastor Omololu Makinde, his departed brother was a pillar of support.
“I’ll never forget the countless times you were there for me, offering a listening ear, a comforting word, or a helping hand. Your selflessness, kindness, and generosity inspired me to be a better person.”
Mrs. Iyabo Muyiwa (Younger Sister)
She described her brother as a source of comfort.
“Brother Sunday, you were more than familyāyou were a part of me. From childhood laughter to shared dreams and quiet moments, you were always there, a constant presence that made life brighter. Though you’re no longer with us, your memory will live on in every smile, every story, and every moment we share.
“I find comfort in knowing that your love, kindness, and strength have left an imprint on all of us. You may be gone from this world, but in my heart, you’ll never be far away.”
Tributes from His Children
Dr. (Ms.) Misty Olufunmike Makinde & Barr. (Ms.) Samara Abigail Makinde
His daughters described him as a man who invested his life in others.
“It is a blessing to recognize how significantly he contributed to those around him and how highly he is regarded. We are grateful for the time we shared with him and will forever cherish his memory. Though he is no longer with us, his spirit will live on in our hearts and in the lives he touched.”
Adedotun Olufisayo Makinde
For her, her Dad was her model.
“I am writing this tribute with tear-filled eyes and a heavy heart, but the Lord comforts me daily with thoughts of the life you lived, a life worthy of emulation. I believe above all things that you are in the Lordās bosom, and I only ask for you to watch over your family.”
Busayo Makinde
She saw her Dad as her guiding light.
“You were more than just a father; you were a guiding light and a shelter in the storm. Your unwavering support, unconditional love, and selfless sacrifices made me feel seen, heard, and valued.
“Your infectious laugh and your warm smile lit up the darkest of rooms. Your kindness, generosity, and compassion inspired me to be a better person.”
Mrs. Deborah Makinde (Daughter-in-law)
She described him as a beacon of hope.
“You’ve been more than just a father-in-law to me; you’ve been a mentor, a friend, and a constant source of inspiration. Your unwavering support, guidance, and love have made a profound impact on my life.
“Your strength, resilience, and determination have been a beacon of hope in times of uncertainty. Your ability to balance kindness with firmness has taught me valuable lessons about leadership and character.
“Your life experiences, insights, and values have been a treasure trove of wisdom for me. Your stories, anecdotes, and advice have helped shape my perspective, broaden my horizons, and deepen my understanding of the world.”
A Life of Impact
The message of Engr. Sunday Makindeās life is clear: The most important thing in life is not wealth, power, or position; it is the ability to positively impact others. True significance lies in helping others achieve their goals, even when one is still striving to reach theirs.
We are here today and gone tomorrow. What matters is the legacy we leave behind. As it is said, “To live in the hearts of those we love is not to die.”
At his burial service at Bishop Akinyele Memorial Anglican Church, Iwo Road, Ibadan, Governor Seyi Makinde gazed at his brotherās casket and declared:
“My brother, Sundo, was a good man, a good brother, a good husband, and a good father. He was not a perfect manānobody is. But he was indeed and in truth an officer and a gentleman. So, I have faith like Martha that he will rise on the last day, and we will see again.”
The congregation resounded with a heartfelt “Amen!”
āDr. Olanrewaju is the Chief Press Secretary to the Oyo State Governor.
