Hundreds of mourners gathered in Bamendakwe in Bamenda I Subdivision on Thursday February 19, 2026, to honour the life of Pa Kuh-Chi Emmanuel, fondly known as Papa Gentil, during an emotional wake service marked by heartfelt tributes, prayers, and reflection.
Family members, friends, political leaders, and well-wishers from within and outside the country filled the family compound in Bamendakwe for a wake service officiated by Rev Father Beltus Asanji of Our Lady of Mercy Quasi Parish Manda, Mile 4, Nkwen,
before proceeding to a reception at Club 58 in Upstation, Bamenda.
Among those present were the Mayor of Zhoa Council, the Member of Parliament for Menchum North, traditional rulers and several religious and business associates, all present to pay their last tribute to a man remembered for his humility, generosity, and deep love for family.
Pa Kuh-Chi Emmanuel, born on March 21, 1955, in Bafmen village, Fungom Subdivision in Menchum Division died on December 4, 2025, at the age of 70 following a sudden fall near his residence. His passing came as a shock to relatives and the wider community.
“A Very Difficult Moment”
Leading the tributes was Kuma Edison Kuh, the first son of the late patriarch, who talked to the media with visible emotion. “Today is a very sad day. It is a very difficult moment, not only for me but for my siblings and the entire family,” he said. “December 4, 2025, is a day we will never forget.”
Kuma Edison recounted how he was the first to receive the call informing him that his father had fallen in Bafmen village and had been rushed to the hospital. The confirmation of his death, he noted, remains one of the most painful moments of his life.
Describing his father as jovial, welcoming, and sociable, Kuma Edison emphasized the values that defined Papa Gentil’s life faith, unity, humility, and sacrifice. “He always made education his priority for us,” Kuma said. “He ensured that his children were cared for first before anything else. He was there for us until his last day on earth.”
Though the grief was heavy, Kuma Edison expressed acceptance grounded in faith. “Whatever comes from God, we must accept. We cannot question His decision,” he said, while thanking everyone who attended the wake service and praying for their safe return home, a wish he said reflected his father’s God-fearing nature.
A Devoted Family Man
Papa Gentile is survived by six children, four sons and two daughters and 16 grandchildren. He was remembered as a devoted husband and a father who lived selflessly for his family.
Speakers described him as a man whose laughter filled rooms and whose advice was always sincere. His home, they said, was open to all, and he treated everyone with respect regardless of status. “He was not only a father by blood but a father by heart,” Kuma Edison said. “A protector, a counsellor, and a pillar of strength.”
Tributes from Abroad
Talking to the media Pa Gentil's children based overseas melted hearts as they spoke with eyes full of tears and broken hearts.
Bertrand Kuh, the fifth son based in Maryland, USA, described his father as his best friend and mentor. “Thank you for every lesson you taught strength, kindness, hard work, and unconditional love,” his tribute read. “Your love gave me roots and wings.”
Vanessa Kuh, the sixth child and daughter, also based in Maryland, reflected on her father’s humour and selflessness. “You weren’t just a father; you were my friend, my confidant, and my favourite comedian,” she wrote, recalling how he would always ensure his family had eaten and were comfortable before attending to himself.
A Lasting Legacy
Throughout the wake service, hymns and prayers echoed through Bamendakwe as mourners celebrated a life defined by honour, compassion, and unity. Though his physical presence is gone, family members affirmed that his legacy will endure through the values he instilled and the lives he touched. “Dad, your first son loves you so much,” Kuma Edison said in closing. “We will continue to cherish, love, and adore you. Your memory shall remain alive.”
As the community dispersed from Bamendakwe to Club 58, for the reception, the message was clear: Pa Kuh-Chi Emmanuel aka Papa Gentile leaves behind not only a grieving family, but a legacy of love and laughter that will not fade.
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