“I’m Still Waiting to Welcome You Home” – Wife of Late Dr. Samuel Sarpong Delivers Heart-Wrenching Tribute

By Joylinda Laryea / 15 August, 2025

In a deeply emotional tribute during the state funeral for the victims of the August 6 military helicopter crash, the wife of Dr. Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), shared her enduring grief and longing for a husband she still hopes will return home.

Addressing the gathering at Black Star Square, she recalled their final conversation before the fatal flight.

“I remember the call you made to me in the early hours of that fateful and dark Wednesday, telling me you were leaving for Obuasi on a national assignment. You assured me it was a return journey. I am still looking forward to welcoming you back home, my dear husband.”

Holding back tears, she described Dr. Sarpong as a devoted husband, man of integrity, and a pillar of strength whose sudden loss has left a profound void in the hearts of his family.

“The news of your passing continues to pierce through my very soul, leaving a deep and unbearable void in my heart,” she said.

She painted a portrait of a man who, beyond his public life, was a loving family man who built a home filled with peace and unity.

“You cared for us with such gracious love and led us with such a determined heart. You prayed with us, dreamed with us, and stood by us no matter the season.”

Although she acknowledged his many contributions to public service, she emphasized that his most cherished role was that of a husband and father.

“You were not just my husband; you were my partner in every sense of the word.”

In one of the most poignant moments of her speech, she made a tearful appeal as if he could still hear her voice:

“Oh, Sarpong Kumankuma, hear my call and come back. Tell me this news is not true. The day is gloomy, the sun is gone, the weather is heavy, darkness is falling, and the space is empty.”

She ended her tribute with a solemn farewell, affirming the family’s continued spiritual connection to him.

“We can still hear the sound of your footsteps around the house, offering protection for the family. You ran a good race, my husband. May the doors of heaven be open for you until we meet again. Rest well, my dear husband. Sarpong Kumankuma, nanti yie, damirifa due.”

Dr. Sarpong was among eight people who perished in the Ghana Air Force Z-9 helicopter crash in the Ashanti Region. The state funeral, attended by high-profile leaders including President John Mahama, offered a national platform for collective grief, honour, and remembrance.