Theresia Bih KejemTheresia B. Kejem

Mami Bih Theresa Tamufor was a devoted Christian, loving mother and respected matriarch whose life was marked by faith, resilience and unwavering commitment to her family and community. She passed away peacefully on August 15, 2026, after courageously enduring a long period of illness.

Born on 1 January 1944 in Akum, Cameroon, Mami Theresa hailed from the historic Asanji family of Chomba. She was the cherished daughter of the late Pa Asanji Joseph and the late Ma Neh Rophina. She began her primary education in Chomba, but her father later withdrew her from school so she could accompany him as his trusted helper and “bag-bearer” during his travels. She later moved to Santa where she lived with her stepbrother, Pa Chi Asanji, fondly known as “Sanitary.” Before becoming a dedicated food farmer, she supported her family through a humble trade selling puff-puff and gateaux.

Mami Theresa was united in marriage to the late Pa Jacob Kejem, and their union was blessed with 10 children, 29 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren. As a mother, she nurtured her family with love, discipline and Christian values, ensuring unity and support among her children and grandchildren. She faced many challenges, including early withdrawal from school and the demands of raising a large family, yet she remained steadfast and hardworking, determined to see her family prosper.

Her Christian life was central to her identity. A devout member of the Presbyterian Church in Cameroon (P.C.C), she served twice as an elder at PC Baba II and was an active and committed member of the Christian Women’s Fellowship (C.W.F). She contributed significantly to church building projects, communion services, and various spiritual and community activities. Her leadership and her dedication strengthened fellowship among women and helped foster spiritual growth within the congregation.

Throughout her life, Mami Theresa lived in several towns and villages across Cameroon which included Ndu, Wum, Ndop, Fundong, Nkambe, Acha Tugi, Jakiri, and Santa; connecting with diverse communities and building lasting relationships. Interestingly, she spoke the local languages of nearly all the places she lived in, a testament to her adaptability, sociable nature, and ability to integrate fully wherever she went. She eventually settled in Baba II Village, where she became an active participant in community life, especially within “Wumefum” quarter in Baba 2 village, contributing to unity, support and social cohesion. Her several visits to the United Kingdom to support her children and grandchildren further demonstrated her deep commitment to family.

In September 2025, she fell seriously ill and underwent spinal surgery due to cauda equina syndrome. She spent over eleven months moving between hospitals, enduring persistent pain and physical challenges. Despite her suffering, she remained strong, prayerful, and comforted by her faith and the devoted care of her family and carers. On 15 August 2026, she answered the Lord’s call peacefully.

Mami Bi Theresa Tamufor will be remembered as a woman of remarkable strength, deep faith, and enduring love; an anchor to her family and a blessing to her community. May her gentle soul rest in perfect peace.