Veteran Ghanaian actress, Grace Naa Kwarley Nortey, was laid to rest on Saturday, October 31, following a funeral service attended by hundreds of mourners. The ceremony took place at the forecourt of the State House in Accra. Prominent figures from the entertainment industry and politics, including veteran actress Maame Dokono and actor and politician John Dumelo, gathered to honour her memory.
Representatives of the Ghana Actors Guild, industry colleagues, family members, and fans also attended the service to celebrate the actress’s life. Her contributions to Ghanaian entertainment spanned several decades, covering theatre, television, film, and radio. The actress was widely regarded as one of the pioneering figures in Ghana’s acting industry, with a career that earned her recognition through popular productions such as ‘Obra’, ‘Osofo Dadzie’, and ‘Nana Akoto’.
Grace Nortey died on August 26, 2026, at the University of Ghana Medical Centre at the age of 89. Born on February 1, 1937, she featured in films including ‘Sinking Sands’, ‘Lost Hope’, and ‘Matters of the Heart’. She also gained international exposure through her appearance in the 2015 Netflix film Beasts of No Nation. Her contribution to the creative arts was recognised with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Black Star International Film Festival.
In keeping with the family’s arrangements, there was no wake, while mourners wore white outfits as requested. Her burial was held privately, with only close family members in attendance. A thanksgiving service was held on Sunday, November 1, at 8am at St Barnabas Anglican Church in Osu. The service provided an opportunity for friends and family to gather and pay their respects to the late actress.
Beyond acting, Grace Nortey hosted ‘Nyeawokoshie’, a radio programme for Ga women in the 1970s. She is survived by five daughters, including actress Sheila Nortey. Her passing attracted tributes from several prominent personalities, including former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, who described her as a trailblazer and cultural icon.
The funeral service was a testament to the impact Grace Nortey had on the Ghanaian entertainment industry. Her legacy will continue to inspire future generations of actors and actresses. The event was a celebration of her life and contributions to the industry, with many attendees sharing fond memories of her work.
Key figures in the entertainment industry have praised Grace Nortey’s contributions to Ghanaian cinema. Her dedication and passion for her craft have left a lasting impact on the industry. The actress’s family and friends continue to mourn her loss, but take comfort in the knowledge that her legacy will live on.
Key points
- The funeral service for Grace Nortey was attended by hundreds of mourners, including prominent figures from the entertainment industry and politics.
- Grace Nortey had a long and distinguished career in Ghanaian entertainment, spanning several decades and covering theatre, television, film, and radio.
- The actress was recognised for her contributions to the creative arts with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Black Star International Film Festival.
