Send off prog for Late Shiyili Yethakhu conducted

Chief Minister, Neiphiu Rio paying last respects to Late Shiyili Yethakhu in Dimapur on November 5. (Morung Photo) 

Morung Express News
Dimapur | November 5

A brief send off programme for Late Shiyili Yethakhu who breathed her last on November 4 was held at her residence in Police Colony, Dimapur on Tuesday. Late Shiyili is the mother of former Minister, Lt. Col. Doshehe Y. Sema and Y. Kikheto Sema, IAS. She was 98 and left behind three sons, two daughters, 32 grandchildren and seven great grandchildren.

Speaking on behalf of the family, Kikheto Y. Sema, IAS expressed gratitude to all those who extended their support and cooperation during their hour of grief. He described her mother as a person who was deeply rooted with God and interceded continuously for the family, village and the Naga people. Kikheto said that the aspirations and wishes of his mother had been fulfilled in numerous ways and thanked God for the meaningful and blessed life that Late Shiyili lived.

A host of speakers from well wishers, peers, village community and churches spoke during the send off programme. The final “Home Going Service” would be held at 10:00 am November 6 in Rotomi village where her mortal remains would be laid to rest.

Speaking on behalf of Dimapur Sumi Baptist Church, Pastor, Juliet Shikhu described her as a God fearing person. 
Rev. K. Tsaikha (100 years) who is also her cousin spoke on behalf of Rotomi village and described her as a person who had ample concern not only for her family and village but the Nagas as well.

The send off programme was conducted by Rev. Dr. Khehovi, Chairman, Sumi Baptist Convention.

Rio and others pay tribute
Meanwhile, State Chief Minister, Neiphiu Rio who earlier paid last respects to Late Shiyili in Dimapur expressed heartfelt condolences to former Minister, Doshehe Y. Sema and Commissioner & Secretary, Y. Kikheto Sema IAS on the demise of their mother, Shiyili Yethakhu. 

In a condolence message, Rio described Late Shiyili as a “woman of God, a strong prayer warrior and a mother who prayed continuously not only for her family but for the entire Nagas.”

Rio also said that Late Shiyili continued to walk steadfastly on the path that Almighty God laid for her and that her sacrifices could be seen in the blessings bestowed upon her family as all of them have become successful in their respective professions. Stating that in her demise, a loving mother has been lost, Rio prayed for the departed soul to rest in eternal peace. 

Advisor, Tourism, Art & Culture, Government of Nagaland, H. Khehovi Yeputhomi in a condolence message expressed deep sadness over the loss of Shiyili Yethakhu. “Mother is the most precious thing on earth. No one and nothing can fill the void created by the loss of our dear mother,” he conveyed and added, “My humble short message may not suffice to express the heartfelt sorrow that I feel for the passing of such a Godly mother
“I pray for the eternal repose of one who was a woman of distinguished humanity. May our heavenly Father give her eternal peace,” he prayed. 

The Directorate of Horticulture, in a condolence note offered deepest condolences to the bereaved family and prayed that “may our good Lord grant her eternal peace.” 

The Ex-Parliamentarian Association Nagaland (Ex-PAN) expressed pain at the sudden demise of Lt. Shiyili Yethakhu. Ex-PAN, President, Joshua Sumi in a condolence note said at this time of sorrow, “it is our sincere prayer that the Almighty console and give solace to all the family members. We are confident that her soul will rest and abide in the eternal arms of the Lord.”