The funeral of veteran Ghanaian actress, Grace Nortey, was held on Saturday, October 31, at the forecourt of the State House in Accra. Nortey, known as Maame Gyata, passed away on August 26 at the age of 89. Her children, Vida Enchill, Andriana Nortey, Barbara Tabi, Sheila Nortey, and Rita Nortey, remembered their mother as a woman who gave them a home filled with love, a contrast to her own upbringing.
Nortey's children recalled that she lost both her parents early and grew up with different relatives. Despite this challenging start, she made sure her own children learned essential life skills, including cooking, cleaning, doing laundry, ironing, and taking care of a home. The children fondly remembered gathering to learn and take turns performing these chores, which helped shape their upbringing.
The children also appreciated their mother's disciplinary approach, which they now understand was necessary for their growth. Nortey's marriage to their father, which began when she was a teenager and he was in his twenties, lasted until his death in his seventies. Her experience in marriage informed her counseling work with couples and those preparing for marriage, making her a sought-after Okyeame at engagement ceremonies.
Relationships were deeply important to Nortey, as her children recalled her close ties with her sisters, stepsisters, brothers, cousins, aunties, uncles, in-laws, and friends. Her home was often a hub for family gatherings, visits, and support. Her children remembered her as a host, helper, and caregiver, always willing to welcome others into her home.
Nortey discovered her passion for radio and acting while working with the Ghana Education Service. She pursued her acting career fully after retirement, with her children often practicing her scripts with her at home. Her career gave her many more "children," as people looked up to her as a role model. The funeral rites continued on Sunday, November 1, with a thanksgiving service at St Barnabas Anglican Church in Osu.
The Ghanaian entertainment industry has been paying tribute to Nortey, with the Ghana Actors Guild saluting her legacy. Colleagues, fans, and family members gathered to bid farewell to the veteran actress. Nortey's legacy extends beyond her acting career, as she touched the lives of many through her counseling work and her role as a mother and mentor.
The tributes to Nortey reflect her impact on the lives of those who knew her. Her children, colleagues, and fans will remember her for her love, generosity, and dedication to her craft. As the curtain falls on her life, her legacy will continue to inspire and influence future generations.
Key points
- Grace Nortey's children paid tribute to her at her funeral, highlighting her selfless love and the values she instilled in them.
- Nortey's legacy extends beyond her acting career, as she touched the lives of many through her counseling work and her role as a mother and mentor.
- The Ghanaian entertainment industry has been paying tribute to Nortey, with the Ghana Actors Guild saluting her legacy.
