(718) 761-5544 | matthewfh@matthewfuneralhome.com | 2508 Victory Boulevard, Staten Island, NY 10314
Tribute Wall
Monday
22
January
Visitation/Viewing at Funeral Home
4:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Monday, January 22, 2024
Matthew Funeral Home And Cremation Services, Inc.
2508 Victory Blvd.
Staten Island, New York, United States
Monday
22
January
Wake Keeping Service of Songs
5:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Monday, January 22, 2024
Matthew Funeral Home And Cremation Services, Inc.
2508 Victory Blvd.
Staten Island, New York, United States
Monday
22
January
Visitation/Viewing at Funeral Home
8:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Monday, January 22, 2024
Matthew Funeral Home And Cremation Services, Inc.
2508 Victory Blvd.
Staten Island, New York, United States
Tuesday
23
January
Funeral Service
10:00 am
Tuesday, January 23, 2024
Matthew Funeral Home And Cremation Services, Inc.
2508 Victory Blvd.
Staten Island, New York, United States
Tuesday
23
January
Final Resting Place
12:30 pm
Tuesday, January 23, 2024
Fairview Cemetery
1852 Victory Blvd.
Staten Island, New York, United States
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Christiana Obasi posted a condolence
Tuesday, January 30, 2024
My heartfelt condolences goes to Mr. Baba wife, children and family in large. I pray the lord comfort and be with all.
Mr. Baba was my BCBA supervisor. May his soul rest in peace.
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Very Rev. Dr. Chaplain Sawyerr-Adewale posted a condolence
Monday, January 22, 2024
Where O death is your victory? Where O death is your sting? But thanks be to God who gives us the victory through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Accept my condolences. May the Lord light perpetual light upon him. May God give you and your family the strength to bear the loss of your husband and May his Gentle Soul Rest in Perfect Peace.
Very Rev. Dr. Chaplain Sawyerr - Adewale.
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Modupe Tijani lit a candle
Sunday, January 21, 2024
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Dear Babatunde Efuniyi, you left too soon, although we can’t quite understand why this happened so soon, we still blessed the name of the Lord for the time and memories you shared with us all, always supportive and caring, it’s good nite to meet again in Jesus name amen. From RCCG Covenant Chapel Women ministry.
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Bright Agindotan uploaded photo(s)
Sunday, January 21, 2024
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On behalf of Baptist Academy Old Boys’ Association (BAOSA) 1982 Set, I say farewell to our beloved colleague that untimely departed us. Tunde was a quiet complete gentleman. His sudden departure was a painful loss to us in BAOSA and his beloved family. Our consolation is that he’s in an incomparable glorious realm where there no pains nor death - at the bosom of our Lord Jesus Christ!
To his wife, children, siblings, and other relatives, including the BAOSA families, life is short, let’s live it well - serving our purpose to the glory of our creator, the immortal and eternal invisible God. Tunde has run his race. Savior Like a Shepherd Lead Us (School song)…. to fulfill our destines.
Babatunde Efuniyi’, may soul rest in absolute peace until we meet again (https://music.youtube.com/watch?v=esQWaQLklps). Sun re o!
Bright Agindotan (BAOSA 82 Set, VP North America)
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Lola Ajayi lit a candle
Sunday, January 21, 2024
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My Uncle…it’s painful to write this cause I’m finding it hard to accept your gone. But God knows best!
I’m going to miss looking for your trouble for no reason at all. Going to miss us having the battle of Man U V Arsenal with my husband. But I know you’re smiling at us all now. I’m sorry you never got to meet Brielle but I will surely tell her all the stories about you.
May God strengthen your family during this period and may they find peace.
Till me see again…
Love you & Miss you
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Derin Adejinle lit a candle
Sunday, January 21, 2024
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Mr Peckinson! Pecki or Mr Peckinson was what we fondly called each other any time we spoke. I still can’t believe my friend and brother from another mother is really gone. We met almost 40 years in Ife and our friendship and brotherhood grew really quickly. We went through phases of friendship, business partnership and until we arrived at brotherhood. Tunde was my ride-or-die. To the end, he shielded me and a lot of his friends from the stark trauma he faced but choose to fight on him own with just his immediate family at his side. He never wanted to burden anyone.
We went on many journeys of life together, standing shoulder to shoulder, but on this your final journey I couldn’t fight it for you – but you did as your promised you would, and gallantly too.
Any time I needed advise, he was always there to listen without judgement and offer sound professional and practical advice. Because of the time difference between us, I would sometimes stay up into the early hours of the morning talking. We always had time for each other. I’ll miss your sound counsel and wit. You were wiser beyond your years and always humble in all your ways. My wife has also lost an ally in you. My son has lost his youth educational therapist.
This is not the deal you and I had. We had uncompleted plans, but we accept God’s will with humility.
He was a great host to me and my family anytime we were in New York as he was to his other friends. He wouldn’t hear of it when you tell him you’re staying in a hotel. He would sometimes take time off work to be my chauffeur, personal shopper and tour guide.
My deepest condolences Babatunde’s wife, Ayo, his son Subomi and the younger children, his sisters and the entire Efuniyi family at this time of great loss. God will grant you all the strength and fortitude to bear the loss.
I thank God for granting me the honour of crossing my path into Tunde’s life and the innumerable pleasant memories I have of him. His life has influenced mine positively and his legacy as a great parent is one that I will always aspire to. Go to rest ore mi. It is well with your soul.
Derin Adejinle
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Adedamola adediran posted a condolence
Saturday, January 20, 2024
Babatunde Efuniyi. You were my friend and brother. People know we were 5 and 6. God knows we shared memories together. What of all the sit outs we had, birthdays, hanging outs and parties not to talk about business advise we do give each other. You were always fun to be with. I am at a loss. I am sad and grieving about your death. Last time I was in your bed side, i thought I will meet you when I come back from my trip only to receive that dreaded phone call that you have left us. I am short of words and things won't be the same again. I don't know why you had to go but God knows the best.
My condolence goes to the wife, the children, the family and the loved ones. Good night my friend and brother.
We shall meet on the resurrection day. God bless your soul. O daro egbon.
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Desiree Anthony posted a condolence
Thursday, January 18, 2024
My deepest condolences to the family of babatunde. Mr. Babatunde was my BCBA supervisor. He helped me several times during that time with the student. He was a wonderful person. He loved making jokes so we could both laugh. I remember all the talks we had during that time. Babatunde called me and told me about a month and a half ago to tell me that he was sick during that time he was more concern about how I was during. I will miss he a lot. Revelation 21:3-5. My jehovah keep you in his memory.
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Jeanna Mascia posted a condolence
Thursday, January 18, 2024
My condolences to the lost of Babatunde. I've worked with Babatunde and our clients for some time now and he always was a pleasure to work with. My heart breaks for him as a colleague and friend as I was always concerned for his health. He was always in my prayers once he told me his diagnosis. I am sending all my love to his wife and children. I am truly so sorry.
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Samuel D’Onigbinde lit a candle
Thursday, January 18, 2024
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Bro Babatunde Efuniyi, you left us too soon. You were a practical and true friend who was available and willing to help even when it was not easy for you. We miss you dearly but our Lord Jesus loves more. Rest in peace.- Covenant Men
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OMOBA ADEYEMO GBADEBO uploaded photo(s)
Wednesday, January 17, 2024
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Hmmm. The reality of the demise of BABATUNDE EFUNNIYI aka ONTOP is gradually sinking into me. Yes, as a man of faith, I know we are all pilgrims here. Heaven is home. However, I held on to the promise of God, concerning ONTOP, that we shall live a full old age.
Babs, I personally visited and stayed at your house mid November 2023. We prayed together. We believed God heard us and we both declared that it was a phase that would soon pass. When we embraced ourselves as I was about leaving for Nigeria, I declared that your health situation shall end in praise of Jehovah Rapha. We both said AMEN.
I called and sent text messages until the last one of Sunday, 7th January 2024, which was replied and stated that my friend, BABATUNDE EFUNNIYI passed on to glory.
Reading the text message was like a big long niddle had been driven through my chest cutting through my heart to my spine. I screamed. My neighbours knew something unpleasant happened in my abode, same place where loud joyful voices were heard when you visited in year 2020 during the wedding of your niece.
Yes, I am physically, emotionally, spiritually pained.
Why do I still cry when I am alone and think about you, how we met, became friends, our friendship timeline and your influence on my life, family and career.
Do you remember how we started? It was on a Wednesday mid -September 1996 that I was introduced to a huge but gentle guy called ROTARIAN BABATUNDE EFUNNIYI by Rotarian Anthony Egboko, my mentor in Rotary International, who was also your secondary school mate. I am sure very few people still remember or know you were an active Rotarian. From that Rotary fellowship meeting, a great friendship was birthed. Unknown to many, it was your warmth and welcome that attracted me to the Rotary International family aside from the primary goal of serving humanity.
Within the Rotary Club of Ogba, we both served far and near with joy. Our tag team was unrivaled. Because of your intimidating physique and ehmm, I nicknamed you “ONTOP”.
By the end of October 1996, after my induction as a Rotarian, the “cruise “ started. We had fun traveling together for literacy social engagements. The sweet memories of our “expeditions “ are forever fresh.
I will forever remember your financial and moral support during my wedding ceremony.
Like every friendship, we also had and shared some challenging moments together. It was not easy to grasp with the thought of you leaving for the US, permanently. I felt lonely when you left because my “paddy of life” was leaving me. Your departure to the US was a watershed in my career and social life.
Soon, we realized that distance didn’t mean anything to our friendship. We retooled and started bonding at a higher level. Your house address became my contact address everywhere you stayed since 2003. My family enjoyed your hospitality and generosity. Wow. What a wonderful friend you were!!!
Do you know why I “glued” to you, ONTOP?
One, you’re selfless. Of course, it’s a common character traits in Rotary but you were exemplary. You gave your resources(time, talent and treasure) to all those who got close to you without any expectations of a payback.
Two, you supported good causes. You were ever willing to lend a hand to noble ideas. I will forever be grateful to you for sharing in my corporate vision and sharing yours with me. Your timely advice on very knotty corporate issues, I will never forget.
Three, you are a “well wisher “. You are never envious or bothered by the achievements of your peers and family. You celebrated the achievements of people around you even when you were miles away from your target.
Four, your versatility in information gathering. You were a well informed person. Your knowledge of the world was never questioned by any rational mind. From international relations to local politics to arts and sports to economics to religion you towered above sentiments and mediocrity.
Five, you loved Nigeria and that was why you were a great critic of policies and systems in Nigeria. You hated to hear or see people celebrate corruption/bad leadership.
Six, you’re a disciplined goal getter. Ever focused and ambitious. A believer in continuous learning targeted at high productivity and professional excellence.
Seven, you’re a lover of family. You have family values and truly value family. I cannot imagine what every member of your family would be thinking now because nobody can love them like you do. However, my consolation is that the lover of our soul is more than able to fill the big vacuum your homecoming has created. May the good Lord uphold you all in Jesus Mighty Name
I can go on and on about who ONTOP was and is to me. I cannot say it all at a time. Even writing this piece was traumatic for me. Tears are flowing down my eyes and my hands are shaking because I still cannot phantom the fact that my friend, my brother, my confidant left this world to eternal peace untimely, prematurely and unexpectedly. Nonetheless, I thank God that you died a saved soul and now seated with Jesus in glory.
I will forever cherish the memories of our friendship.
ONTOP, I MISS YOU , I AM MISSING YOU MORE AND WOULD ALWAYS MISS YOU.
GOOD NIGHT, BABATUNDE EFUNNIYI.
It’s me,
DEBO ARO-ADEYEMO
“AROSOMEBODY”
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Sam Elegbeleye posted a condolence
Wednesday, January 17, 2024
My sincere condolences to the entire family of Efunniyi. Big surprise to hear of your demise. It is well with your and all left behind. Gentle man Tunde. Rest in the Bossom of the Lord God.
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Ayo Olesin lit a candle
Wednesday, January 17, 2024
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Tunde and I met in 1972 in primary school and remained friends ever since... had lots of good times together in Oko Oba before he left for the U. S. Really sad and shocked about this but we are consoled the he rests in the bosom of the Lord. Good night Tunde.
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Nike Ogunrinde lit a candle
Wednesday, January 17, 2024
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My condolences to the family of Babatunde Efuniyi, who went to be with the Lord. I met ‘Babs’ (as was fondly called) through my husband and we connected instantly. He was very friendly yet so gently. He had so many plans for himself and his family but God knows best. He will be greatly missed. May God comfort you all at this time of grief. May almighty God grant him eternal rest and may his soul rest in perfect peace till we meet again in Jesus name.
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Dipo posted a condolence
Wednesday, January 17, 2024
Babatunde Adebambo Efuniyi.
Tunde and I were born two days apart in the same year.
He, the 22nd and me the 24th, same month same year.
We celebrated many many birthdays together.
I think it is safe to say that my earliest recollection of Tunde dates back to 1972 when we both enrolled as students of Tunwase School.
Tunde was always a gentle easy going boy, very much unlike me his twin brother.
I was always completely at ease in Tunde’s company. Being not as gentle as him I constantly got into challenges and Tunde was always there to offer me the best advice and options.
My family and I spent time with Tunde years back at his apt in Far rock away in New York.
He was the perfect host and made sure my wife and kids explored all New York had to offer.
Privy to Tunde’s challenges we kept contact as much as his condition allowed. We prayed but we are mere mortals. We dare not challenge God.
In summary Tunde was a good man in all ramification . He had a calming effect on me as was very good at handling pressure.
. Loyal to a fault in causes he believed in.
Very difficult to refer to Tunde in the past, but all in all I am thankful for the “ Omoluabi” life you lived.
God be with you till we meet again my dear brother.
Dipo Sobowale
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Segun Sokoya lit a candle
Tuesday, January 16, 2024
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Truly sad to hear of your passing to glory. I remember fondly, our days of comradeahip and friendship at Sanni Luba Conti in 1983. Thanks to social media, we caught up 'virtually' for years ago when I created the facebook platform for the group. Ifelaja. Wacus, Igbeba, Onikolobo to mention a few were our hangouts. I have so many truly fond memories of you Efun. Rest well my friend and brother. You are free from all pain. You ran your race and ran it well. Segun Sokoya (Sokii)
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Olatunji Ope posted a condolence
Tuesday, January 16, 2024
I am at a loss for words still. We met at a very critical point in my life that i was trying to make sense of my life and gain some direction to broaden my horizon, struggling with everything.
Your presence completely changed the dynamics of my life and the prism from which i looked at life. Being your friend enriched my life with memories and people that i treasure still
Our conversations were deep, profound, impactful and sometimes hilarious at the same time. Your insights on life and your approach to lifes issues completely moderated my worldview and affected my social relationships significantly even when i didn't take advantage of your offer of help, especially because i was consistently persuaded to so do, by mutual friends. In hindsight, I lost the opportunity for a closer relationship and consolidation of initiatives we discussed
In all, I give thanks and praise to God for the privilege to have been your friend, met your family especially your Mom, met great human beings in your friends and shared great thoughts and ideas at every turn
I will always treasure my memories of you and with you, and they all bring a smile to my face even if painful
Rest in peace my friend and brother.
Olatunji Ope
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Babatope Akinyele posted a condolence
Tuesday, January 16, 2024
My dear friend Tunde, I have known you for so long I don’t even remember when we met. Was it at Ijebu Ode or Agege?! Your passion for life was contagious! There are so many things however I can not forget. Like the time we…
Since you've been gone, there's a void that's hard to describe. Your laughter and presence are deeply missed.
I am eternally grateful for the times you would host my family and I at your place in New York on holiday. Your friendship was a gift I will always cherish and your family are my own too.
To you, my dear friend, I hope you know the impact you've had on my life. Your guidance and kindness shaped who I am today. I miss you more than words can say.
To all who knew and loved you, let us find solace in the memories we shared and the knowledge that your spirit lives on in each of us. You brought us together, and for that, we are forever connected and loved
Babatope Akinyele
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Babatope Akinyele lit a candle
Tuesday, January 16, 2024
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Adetokunbo Layokun posted a condolence
Tuesday, January 16, 2024
Efun Gbamgba! Am Saddened, Shocked to learn of your passing and more Distraught that in All our Chats and Conversations, you kept it away from my Knowledge.
It’s nothing Personal but just your Gentle Nature.
My Thoughts and Prayers are with your Family at this Difficult Time.
May your Soul RIP
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Irawomitan Owolabi uploaded photo(s)
Monday, January 15, 2024
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Dearly beloved Uncle T, as I fondly called him. Parcero sister mi, one of the many names I had for him. He was my “abosi” gist partner. We bullied each other, harassed each other, he’d call me names and I’d answer with “duh”…never upset. We’d end up laughing about it and then encouraged each other. It’s a rare privilege to have spent the last moments with him. It’s awfully quiet without you here. You are already sorely missed. Zion misses his Papa, he still prays for you and thanks God for Papa. All I can say is thank you! Thank you for fighting! Now, it’s time for you to rest Padi mi. We love you.
Rest secured in the steady arms of Christ. ❤️
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Adekunle Gasper posted a condolence
Monday, January 15, 2024
My heartfelt condolences to the family of late Babatunde Efuniyj. Efun was an astute gentleman. We had been friends since 1982 even till his last days. We did so many things together. He was the one that made me attend Univeristy of Ife and we lived together off campus till we finished Uni. My good friend Efun, I will dearly miss you. May your soul rest in peace in the blossom of our Lord Jesus Christ. Adekunle Gasper
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The family of Babatunde A. Efuniyi uploaded a photo
Monday, January 15, 2024
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