Dr. William Obote was a paragon to many

It only seems yesterday that Dr. William W. Obote passed on onto a greater life. In school we used to sing a song; weep not for those who walk the streets of gold, and nay, should we weep but celebrate his life, the gift God gave us as a blessing to touch our lives in various ways.

Every one of William’s friends seems to share a unique experience with him, and this was the veritable man, William, able to meet anyone at his/her level. Personally, William always inspired me to endeavour to achieve excellence in whatever I do, never to settle for something because it is easy, but to always strive for something better because it is hard. He taught me to always seek after knowledge. He regularly read the British Telegraph newspaper – what passion for knowledge! William was a great paragon to many.

William touched the lives of many. One of the most moving stories is the story behind the adoption of his son, Daniel Omara. The young man survived an LRA attack, and was found cuddled up onto his dead mother. William took the young man, adopted him, and so brought hope where there was despair.

William was a man who greatly loved the LORD. At every opportunity he had he shared the message of Christ, not just from the Bible, but from the every-day angle. He taught us that excellence in what one does is one of the greatest acts of worship. One has to use the gifts that God has given him/her to the fullest and for the benefit of mankind lest they be rendered redundant.

William’s maturity is bespoke. He was a true leader. He was a man of great character, charisma (remember the mango tree story!), commitment, competence, self-discipline, passion, and of great generosity – not only in monetary terms, but of himself. He was a servant, he put others first which showed he was confident of himself. He loved people and greatly cared for their wellbeing.

William is a testament of the depth of the people of this country and indeed, the African continent. His passing away is a reflection of how we need to continuously make our environment a better place for all around us. He showed us the transformation that Christ brings to one’s life – a new creation indeed.

Fare thee well William, for you walk the streets of gold. You continue to live through us, through the many ways you touched and taught us.

Joseph Ogwal Oyie