It was a day filled with pride, tears, and deep emotion as Jennifer Awele, the widow of late Nollywood actor Junior Pope Odonwodo, marked a major milestone in her son’s life. Their son, Jason, recently graduated from primary school, and while the moment brought smiles, it also tugged at many hearts, especially Jennifer’s.
Taking to Instagram, Jennifer shared a touching video montage from the graduation ceremony. In one clip, young Jason can be seen dancing joyfully on stage with a classmate. The energy was pure and innocent, yet it carried the silent weight of someone dearly missed. Another heartwarming moment showed Jennifer and actress Empress Njamah surprising Jason with an HP laptop gift.
Yet, it was Jennifer’s caption that hit home for many. She poured her heart into a tribute that praised God for his faithfulness through the storm. She started:
“Dear God, thank You for Your son Jason. Thank You for being the husband of the widow and the father of the fatherless… even when we’re losing hope and do not know the right words to say. MMADU ABURO CHUKWU…”
She then turned her words to the man she once shared her world with:
“To our father in heaven, I know you’re so proud of us. It was a bittersweet experience on this day because it was a day you actually looked up to. But we carry your love daily in our hearts and your teachings and memories would forever linger. Keep resting in God’s bosom, Jnr Pope Odonwodo. Keep watching over us. We love you always!”
Jennifer didn’t forget to show gratitude to those who’ve stood by her family since the tragedy. “To everyone that has supported and is still supporting towards raising my kids, I say thank you. We are grateful,” she wrote, ending with a sweet note for Jason:
“Congratulations son… it’s indeed a sweet ending to a greater new beginning!”
Junior Pope tragically passed in April 2024 after drowning in the Anam River while returning from a film shoot. His death left the Nollywood industry stunned and grieving, as he was loved not just for his talent, but also for his vibrant personality and family-oriented life.
Jennifer has since continued to keep his memory alive both online and in how she raises their three sons. And Jason’s graduation is yet another reminder that even in loss, there can still be light, love, and strength to keep moving forward.
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