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The burial ceremony of renowned footballer Ezekiel Otuoma in Siaya County took an unexpected turn when his ex-girlfriend, Sharon Atieno, delivered a humorous eulogy that left mourners laughing.
Sharon, who identified herself as a former player of Mbotela Kamaliza and a close friend of Otuoma, shared anecdotes of their past relationship with a mix of wit and charm, ensuring her words didn’t overshadow the solemnity of the day.
READ: Emotional moments as Rachael introduces step daughter Kimberly Otuoma
Sharon’s humorous tribute
Sharon introduced herself as a long-time friend of the late footballer and disclosed that their friendship had a deeper story she chose not to elaborate on to avoid disrupting the peace in Otuoma’s home.
This guy was my friend, but theres a story If I say I might break this home, and I dont' want to do that.
She revealed that she and Otuoma were close before his marriage to Rachael and jokingly claimed to have 'left the home' for her.
This lady called Rachael, I am the one who left the home for her... If I wanted I would be there but it's only that people from Siaya and Gem do not stay together for long.
Also, I was born in Makongeni, he was born in Mbotela, me I don't know relationships. I wonder where he got this lady...But this lady helped him, they built a house and even had a wedding... Mi I dind't have friends who did a wedding. I would have taken him and we would have found a place in Makongeni to stay there.
READ: From miscarriages to incurable illness: How Rachael & Otuoma endured life’s toughest battles
Sharon reminisced about their shared history, from their days as football players to their youthful dreams.
The last time we saw each other was when sitting for the KCSE... We don't even know our results, we finished and took off because we knew we wanted to play football.
READ: How Rachael Otuoma reacted to demands from late hubby's alleged baby mama
Reflections on caring for the sick
Sharon took a serious turn when she spoke about her role in supporting Otuoma during his illness. She revealed that she frequently assisted with medical needs and encouraged Rachael during the difficult period.
I carried this guy. They used to call me at least twice a month for some medications which would only be found outside. Rachael seemed so weak and tired sometimes but I continued encouraging her because I also faced a similar situation with a relative who had the illness for 17 years.
She urged Kenyans to show compassion and avoid fuelling tensions between Rachael and her mother-in-law.
I plead with Kenyans to watch their mouths. Caring for the sick is not a joke. Rachael and her mother-in-law might not be in good terms but don't fuel it. Pray for them to be in good terms.
Rachael is still very young, and she even came and built a house. Let’s pray for peace to reign between them.
READ: Ezekiel Otuoma’s mother shares difficult experience in parting shot to Rachel
Love that endures
Ezekiel Otuoma was laid to rest on January 11, 2025, in his hometown of Ramula, Gem, Siaya County. The footballer, known for his dedication and talent on the field, leaves behind a legacy cherished by many.
Rachael, his wife of 10 years, spoke movingly about their enduring love. The couple tied the knot in 2015 and remained devoted to each other in sickness and health until death separated them.