Nollywood actress Nkechi Blessing Sunday marked the third anniversary of her mother’s passing with an emotional tribute and philanthropic gestures. The star’s actions have resonated with fans and fellow celebrities alike, highlighting the enduring impact of loss and the power of giving back to the community.
Nkechi Blessing took to social media to commemorate the life of her late mother, Gloria Sunday. The actress, known for her vibrant personality both on and off screen, shared a series of heartfelt posts that offered a glimpse into her ongoing journey of grief and healing.
In an Instagram post that quickly garnered thousands of likes and comments, Nkechi wrote, “Dear mother, I will continue to make you proud. Thank you for all your teachings, thank you for making me the strong woman that I am today, love you forever till we meet to part no more. Gloria lives on.”
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This touching message not only paid homage to her mother’s memory but also highlighted the lasting influence Gloria Sunday has had on her daughter’s life and career.
True to her mother’s teachings, Nkechi chose to honor Gloria’s memory through acts of kindness and generosity. The actress organized a food drive, distributing essential items to those in need across Lagos.
“My mother always taught me the importance of giving back,” Nkechi explained to reporters at the event. “What better way to honor her memory than by helping those who are struggling? It’s what she would have wanted.”
The food drive saw hundreds of Lagos residents receive packages containing rice, beans, cooking oil, and other staples. Many recipients expressed their gratitude, with one beneficiary, Mrs. Adebayo, stating, “This gesture means so much to my family. May God bless Nkechi and keep her mother’s soul in peace.”
Nkechi’s tribute posts also shed light on her ongoing struggle with the loss of her mother. Three years without her is really hard,” the actress confessed in one emotional post. She went on to vow that “just like how I never let her suffer or stress while she was on earth, I will constantly remember her for the rest of my life.
The sudden loss of Gloria Sunday in September 2021 sent shockwaves through Nkechi’s life and career. Her mother passed away just five days before the actress’s birthday, adding an extra layer of poignancy to the loss.
At the time, Nkechi shared her anguish on social media, recounting her efforts to provide for her mother. “I had been working day and night to ensure my mother didn’t beg for food,” she wrote. If doctors had requested money to keep her alive, I would have begged the world to help me.
This raw expression of grief resonated with many of Nkechi’s fans, who rallied around the actress with messages of support and condolence.
Nkechi’s journey of remembrance has not been without controversy. In September 2022, during her mother’s first death anniversary, the actress made headlines with an unconventional memorial gesture.
After organizing a food drive similar to this year’s event, Nkechi hosted a small gathering for close friends. In a move that sparked widespread discussion on social media, she distributed adult toys as party favors, claiming it was a celebration of her mother’s open-minded nature.
While some criticized the act as inappropriate, others defended Nkechi’s right to grieve and remember her mother in her own way. Social media commentator Adebola Ogunshina remarked, “Grief is personal, and Nkechi’s actions, while unconventional, seem to be her way of keeping her mother’s spirit alive in a manner true to their relationship.
In December 2022, Nkechi shared another deeply personal moment with her followers, recounting a visit to her mother’s grave in Ibadan. The actress described the emotional experience of updating her late mother on recent life events.
I told her about my new man, Xxssive, my son’s brilliant performances in school, my latest achievements and lots more,” Nkechi revealed. She added that she could feel her mother’s presence, encouraging her to stay strong and courageous.
This practice of maintaining a connection with departed loved ones is not uncommon, explains grief counselor Dr. Adebayo. “Many people find comfort in ‘talking’ to their deceased loved ones. It’s a way of processing ongoing life events and maintaining an emotional bond.”
Nkechi’s openness about her grief process has had a significant impact on her fans and fellow celebrities. Many have praised the actress for her vulnerability and her efforts to channel her pain into positive actions.
Nollywood director Kunle Afolayan commented on one of Nkechi’s posts: “Your strength is admirable, Nkechi. Your mother would be proud of the woman you’ve become and the good you’re doing in her name.”
Similarly, fans have expressed how Nkechi’s journey has helped them with their own grief. Instagram user @blessing_nwosu wrote, “Seeing how you honor your mother gives me strength to cope with my own loss. Thank you for sharing your story with us.”
As Nkechi continues to navigate life without her mother’s physical presence, she remains committed to living out the values Gloria instilled in her. The actress has promised to continue her philanthropic efforts and to strive for success in her career, all in honor of her mother’s memory.
“Every achievement, every act of kindness, is dedicated to my mother,” Nkechi stated. “She may not be here physically, but her influence guides every step I take.”
This dedication serves as a powerful reminder of the lasting impact parents can have on their children’s lives, even after they’re gone.
As Nkechi Blessing Sunday continues to make her mark in Nollywood and beyond, it’s clear that Gloria Sunday’s legacy lives on through her daughter’s actions and words. The actress’s journey of grief, remembrance, and giving back offers a poignant example of how love can transcend loss, inspiring others to keep the memories of their loved ones alive through positive actions and ongoing tributes.
