Family members and sympathisers have poured out tributes in honour of late Pa. Dr. Phillip Potoki Tonfawei, a native of Gbaramatu Kingdom in the Warri South-West Local Government Area of Delta State, who was laid to eternal rest in Benikrukru community on Friday, April 11, 2025.

Among those that paid tributes to the 95-year-old father, grandfather and great grandfather, is a former Registrar of the Nigeria Maritime University (NMU) Okerenkoko, Dr. Alfred Mulade, who wrote in his tribute titled: 'A life of wisdom, compassion, and service'.

He wrote, "It is with profound sadness that I join the family and loved ones of Pa. Phillip Tonfawei in mourning his passing. Today, we gather to celebrate the extraordinary life of a remarkable individual, whose legacy will continue to inspire and motivate us.

"Pa. Phillip Tonfawei, fondly called 'Ogbukan' by all and sundry, was more than just a family patriarch or community leader. He was a shining example of what it means to live a life of purpose, integrity, and selflessness. His unwavering commitment to the well-being of those around him, his infectious warmth and generous spirit, inspired him and endeared him to everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

"Throughout his life, Pa. Phillip Tonfawei, much as I know, demonstrated a deep understanding of the importance of community service and compassion. He worked tirelessly to support the community and those in need, always putting the interests of others before his own. His selflessness, kindness, and generosity inspired countless individuals, and his impact will be felt for generations to come.

"As we say goodbye to this extraordinary life, permit me to urge the family to take comfort in the knowledge that his legacy will live on through the countless lives he touches touches. We will remember his warm smile, his infectious laughter, and his unwavering optimism. We will honor this memory by continuing to strive for the values he embodied: compassion, empathy, and service to others. His legacies will continue to inspire us towards better vision of ourselves. Rest on Ogbukan!" he added.

Other admirers of the deceased, including his children, described him as a man of integrity, compassion, among others. According to the eldest son, Mr. Isaac Tonfawei, "Papa was a man of integrity; he was a man of unparalleled integrity. He believed in doing the right thing, even when it was hard or unpopular. His honesty and strong moral compass were clear in everything he did, from his career to his relationships with family and friends. He taught me that integrity isn't just about honesty; it's about being true to yourself and your beliefs," he wrote.

Towing same line but drawing out more qualities of his late father, another of his son, Jonah Tonfawei, wrote, "Daddy, you are a source of support for your loved ones and others. Today, we gather to celebrate the life of an incredible man, my beloved father. His passing leaves an immense void, but his love, legacy, and lessons forever be etched in my life. It was a blessing, and I will cherish every moment we shared.

"Daddy, your unwavering love, guidance and support shaped me into the person I am today. Your selflessness, kindness, and generosity inspired me to be a better person. Your strength and resilience inspired me to persevere, to hope, and to never give up. Your spirit was unbreakable, and the legacy will continue to inspire me.

"Daddy, your impact on our family, community, and all those who knew you will be felt for generations to come. Your love, wisdom, and values will continue to guide us. Your memory will be a blessing, and we will honor your legacy by leaving the values you taught us.

"As we say our final goodbye, I want you to know that I will miss you more than words can express. But I take comfort in knowing that you are now at peace, free from pain and suffering. Your love will continue to be my guiding light, and I will strive to make you proud. Rest in peace, Daddy (Ogbukan). I love you more than words can say," he added.

A granddaughter, Mrs. Oghogho Happiness Edafioghor Esebamen Asoh Ebiye Emmanuel said, "Grandpa, your wisdom guides, inspires, and uplifts us all. Your discerning heart, your thoughtful insights, and your gentle guidance have made profound impact on our lives. I grew up knowing you as a man who could produce and do so many things, and you have every skill that he thinks you do. Indeed, you were a master of all. That has really inspired me to be a man of integrity.

'"Lastly, your love for Jehovah, your children, principles, kindness, hospitality, and generosity have touched my heart in many ways that will forever be cherished because you have woven a tapestry of memories that will be treasured for generations to come.

"Thank you for bathing and raising wonderful men and women who I can call my uncles and aunts forever. Thank you for being a rock mentor, pillar, and a friend. I celebrate you. Thank you, Grandpa, I grew up knowing. I love you more than words can express. Rest on my hero," she added 

The Comr. Joel- Tonjoh-led Benikrukru executive and the Comr. Ark Selegha-led Kokodiagbene, communities the deceased hailed from, both paid tributes to a man whose loss have created a void that will be difficult to fill.

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