Mercy Friday Ibanga's Obituary
Mercy Friday Ibanga, 59, of Miami, passed away on Sunday August 25, 2019 with her family by her side.
She was born to the late Arit Ibanga on October 30th, 1959 in Ndiya, Nigeria, the third child, and eldest daughter of 7 children. In Nigeria, she worked as a secretary and attended Teacher’s Training College before coming to Miami in 1985. With tireless effort, she became a Certified Nursing Assistant in 1990, then Licensed Practical Nurse. She obtained her Associate of Science in Nursing from Miami Dade College and became a Registered Nurse in 1995. Mercy culminated her Nursing education with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Chamberlain College of Nursing in 2014. She is survived by her husband, Emeka Ikekwem; three daughters, Ekaete Ikpeinyang, Mfon Ikpeinyang Planter, and Emem Ikpeinyang; one grandson, Rune Emediong Planter; four siblings, Morgan Eshiet, Nseobong Asuquo, Uduakobong Udoakang, Imo Eshiet, and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins. Mercy was preceded in death by her mother and two brothers, Ebong Eshiet and Eno Eshiet.
More than anything, Mercy was a devout Christian who loved and lived to daily serve the Lord and his purpose. Mercy’s passion in life was helping others, and she made every attempt to honor that calling throughout her life. Whether it was in her three decade career as a Nurse, sponsoring poor children, financially supporting the numerous family members back home, or donating to a host of charitable causes, she wanted to ensure that she made a difference in someone’s life during her time on earth to be a reflection of God’s love.
Mercy personified the word Vibrant - full of energy, enthusiasm, and life. She was never afraid to be the first on the dance floor or let loose and be silly. Her smile was luminous, and her laughter infectious. She remained an avid student of life, open to new ideas and experiences, enjoyed travelling, often taking off on trips around the world by herself. Mercy was an open book, always spoke her mind, and was known to say exactly how she felt. She was a fighter, and regardless of the situation never lost hope, but always pushed through. She considered love to be an action word, working tirelessly to take care of her loved ones, regardless of the self-sacrifice required. Her children and grandchild were her joy, and she took great pleasure and pride in seeing them grow and succeed. She will always be in our hearts.
Viewing ceremony will be held Friday, September 13, 2019 from 6pm-10pm at Van Orsdel Funeral Home located at 11220 N. Kendall Drive Miami, FL 33176. Funeral ceremony will be held at Sweethome Missionary Baptist Church, 10701 SW 184th St, Cutler Bay, FL 33157, at 10am on Saturday, September 14, 2019.
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