Rufus Afolayan Osayomi, a name that resonates with warmth, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to faith and family, was born in August 1950 to the Osayomi family of Odo-Ode, Ewu-Ekiti, in the Ilejemeje local government area. As the first child of seven siblings—five brothers and one sister—Rufus grew up with a natural sense of responsibility and leadership. His early years were spent in Ekiti State, where he completed his primary education before venturing to Lagos State in search of greener pastures. Little did he know that his journey would leave an indelible mark on everyone he encountered.

In Lagos, Daddy Afolayan’s (as he was fondly called) industrious spirit shone brightly. He worked in several production plants, where his dedication, efficiency, and integrity quickly earned him the respect of his peers and superiors. Rising to the position of foreman, he won numerous awards, a testament to his hard work and commitment to excellence. But Rufus was not one to rest on his laurels. He also mastered the art of tailoring, a skill he used to serve both the high and low of society. His needle and thread brought joy to many, including some top members of the Nigerian military, who trusted him to create garments that reflected their stature. Rufus’s hands were not just skilled; they were an extension of his generous heart.

In September 1991, Mr Rufus married the love of his life, Mrs. Deborah Adunni Larape Afolayan. Their union was a beautiful story of love, faith, and mutual respect, blessed with three wonderful children and men: Daniel, Stephen, and Emmanuel. Rufus was not just a father; he was a mentor, a guide, and a source of unwavering support. His family was his pride and joy, and he poured his heart into raising his children with Christian values and a deep sense of discipline. He often turned to his favorite Bible chapter, Romans Chapter 12, which he read frequently during family devotions, instilling in his children the importance of living a life of service, humility, and love.

Rufus’s faith was the cornerstone of his life. A dedicated and born-again Christian, he served diligently at the Deeper Life Bible Church as part of the prayer warrior team. His commitment to his faith was evident in everything he did, from his jovial demeanor to his firm yet loving approach to life. He was a man who could light up a room with his laughter and yet command respect with his wisdom. Daddy Afolayan saw everyone around him as family, treating friends and fellow believers with the same warmth and affection he reserved for his blood relatives. His daughter-in-law, Modupe Afolayan, married to his son Daniel, held a special place in his heart. He often referred to her as his own daughter, a reflection of his boundless capacity to love and embrace others.

Despite battling kidney disease in his final four years, Rufus faced his challenges with grace and cheerfulness. His illness never dimmed his spirit or his laughter. Even on his most difficult days, he would sing hymns, finding solace and strength in worship. On his last day on earth, January 28, 2025, he was recorded singing hymns, a fitting farewell for a man whose life was a song of faith and resilience. His ability to remain joyful in the face of adversity was an inspiration to all who knew him.

Rufus’s love for his wife, Deborah, was a beautiful testament to the power of partnership and devotion. The couple was inseparable, often seen together at events and occasions, their bond a shining example of marital bliss. Rufus was deeply committed to his wife’s catering business, waking up as early as 4 a.m. on some days to help her prepare for the day. His support was unwavering, a reflection of his selflessness and dedication. He never shied away from hard work or responsibility, embodying the values of diligence and perseverance.

Rufus Afolayan Osayomi was a man of many layers—a dedicated worker, a skilled tailor, a loving husband, a doting father, an omoluabi, and a faithful servant of God. He was jovial yet firm, disciplined yet compassionate, and always ready with a smile or a word of encouragement. His love for children was evident in the way he played with them, and his accommodating nature made everyone feel at home in his presence. He was a man committed to his causes, whether it was his faith, his family, or his community.

As we remember Rufus, we celebrate a life well-lived, a life that touched countless hearts and left a legacy of love, faith, and laughter. His favorite verse, Romans 12, encapsulates the essence of who he was: “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” Rufus lived these words every day, and though he may no longer be with us in person, his spirit lives on in the lives he touched and the memories he created. He will be dearly missed, but his legacy will continue to inspire and uplift us all. Rest in peace, Rufus Afolayan Osayomi—a true man of God, a loving family man, and a friend to all.