Irene Nabirye Wagabaza

Today we celebrate the life of our mother, g randmother, and friend, Irene Nabirye Wagabaza who was born in Kidiki Kamuli, Uganda on January 14th 1938. She was a dedicated mother and housewife and enjoyed success as a business woman. She met her husband and our grandfather J.K. Wagabaza in 1955 and they were blessed with 9 children. She treasured their marriage, loved him, and took care of him in sickness and in health until his death in 2010. Together they shared joy and happiness for 55 years and today I am confident that they are looking down upon us holding hands in everlasting peace, unity, love and with pride.

Grandmother touched each of our lives in a special and unique way. She was very patient, generous and found a way to spread her love to make each one of us feel special in her own way. She was always caring and supportive to the family in all ways. She shared her strength, wisdom and big heart as she was not only a mother to her own children, but a mother and nurturer to all.

We remember how she brought the family together and made several holiday meals. She was truly gifted and made each one of us feel like her personal favorite. We remember her smile, humor and wit and I am sure we all have a story or remark by her that still leaves us roaring in laughter. Most of all, we will miss her selflessness and how she influenced many of our lives.

Over the last 5 years she has had health complications that were offset by a sudden stroke that left her in a coma for about a week. We did not give up on her then and neither did she. She fought hard to come back to us and soon joined us in California where she continued to struggle with her health. She was very strong, courageous and hopeful through it all, never losing her charisma and charming personality. On May 4th 2011, she had a massive heart attack and met her death at 11.30 am in Corona, Ca.

Today we are forced to say goodbye to you dear grandmother. Although you are not with us, we shall keep you alive with all the memories we shared. Even as we shed tears, we know that you are in a better place with no more fear, pain or sorrow. Let us remember Irene Wagabaza for the love and joy she brought into our lives. Let us be strong for her as she was for us. We are thankful to have known and shared life with a special lady like my grandmother.