Jennifer Awele Honors Junior Pope on First Death Anniversary
Jennifer Awele, the widow of beloved Nollywood actor Junior Pope, has shared a deeply emotional tribute marking one year since his tragic passing. The late actor drowned in the Anam River in Anambra State on April 10, 2023, while returning from a movie shoot.
In a heartfelt Instagram post, Jennifer opened up about the pain of losing her husband and the struggles of raising their children without him.
"Your Love Still Surrounds Us" – A Mother’s Pain and Strength
Jennifer described the past year as an agonizing journey, with each day filled with memories of her late husband.
"It’s been one year of standing in the face of our unimaginable loss, and not a day has gone by without a thought of you. Your love still surrounds us, your laughter echoes in our hearts, and your presence is felt in the quiet moments when we miss you most."
She admitted that staying strong for their three children—Jason, Jaden, and Jamon—has been incredibly difficult.
"You have no idea how tough it’s been, trying to stay strong for each other even as the world around us seems to have fallen apart. The grief remains heavy, the absence left a void that words can never fill, but through it all, we look up for strength from heaven as a guiding light."
Heartbreaking Questions from Their Children
One of the most painful aspects of her grief has been answering their children’s innocent yet heartbreaking questions about their father’s unfulfilled promises.
"I still don’t have the right words to respond to Jason and Jaden wanting to know if Daddy will fulfil his promise of taking them to a proper football academy and being present at their first official match. They said, ‘Daddy told them he wouldn’t miss it for anything in the world.’ Then the littlest one, Jamon (fondly called ‘J Papa’ by Daddy), keeps asking when Daddy is bringing the big toy car he promised him."
Gratitude for Support & Keeping Junior Pope’s Legacy Alive
Jennifer expressed deep appreciation for the outpouring of love and support from fans, friends, and the Nollywood community.
"We appreciate everyone who sympathized with us and stood—and still stands—by us through our time of grief. Words cannot express our heartfelt gratitude for your love and support towards us."
She ended her tribute with a touching message to her late husband, vowing to keep his memory alive.
"To our beloved, you did not only leave us, your family, but so many who loved you and loved your works. It is so difficult and unbelievable to say these words, but still, continue to rest in the bosom of the Almighty. You will always be in our hearts and our thoughts, and your memories and legacy will live on forever."
"Though you’re no longer by our side, you live on in every memory, every smile, and every tear. We shall carry you with us always until we meet again. We cannot question God, right? May Your Soul Rest In Perfect Peace, My Love."
Remembering Junior Pope’s Tragic Passing
Junior Pope, along with four other crew members, lost his life in a boat accident while returning from a film shoot for producer Adanma Luke. The incident sparked widespread outrage over the lack of safety measures on set.
A year later, his family, friends, and fans continue to mourn a man whose talent and warmth left an indelible mark on Nollywood.
What are your fondest memories of Junior Pope? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
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