Accra, Sept. 12, GNA – Veteran Ghanaian gospel musician Bernice Offei has passed on at the age of 63.
News of her passing emerged on Saturday, prompting an outpouring of grief from musicians, fans and members of the Christian community, who have been paying tribute to her distinguished career.
Mrs. Offei was one of Ghana’s most celebrated gospel artistes, with a career spanning more than three decades.
She gained recognition through songs that carried messages of faith, hope and perseverance.
Her classic titled “Hold On and Life Is Short” became enduring favourites and remain among the most influential gospel songs produced in Ghana.
With six albums and more than 40 songs to her credit, she built a strong reputation as a singer, songwriter and minister whose music transcended generations.
Some of her popular songs include ‘Kaa She Gbeyei’, ‘It’s By Grace’, ‘Nyame Kokroko’ and ‘N’adom Ara Kwa.’
Her contribution to the growth of gospel music in Ghana was recognised in 2009 when she won the Best Female Vocal Performance and Songwriter of the Year awards at the Ghana Music Awards, now known as the Telecel Ghana Music Awards.
Beyond music, Mrs. Offei distinguished herself in academia and professional life. She attended Achimota School before earning an MPhil in Crop Science from the University of Ghana and a Master’s Degree in Information Technology from University College London in the United Kingdom.
Mrs. Offei was married to Prof. Samuel Kwame Offei, a former Pro-Vice Chancellor of the University of Ghana, and the couple had two children.
Her death comes days after concerns over her whereabouts led to public appeals for information before she was later found safe.
Mrs. Offei leaves behind a rich musical legacy that continues to inspire faith, hope and resilience among generations of listeners.
GNA
Edited by Kenneth Odeng Adade