The founder of Lighthouse Chapel International, Bishop Dag Heward-Mills, has paid a moving tribute to veteran gospel musician Bernice Offei, who passed away on Saturday, September 12, 2026.
A solemn moment turned emotional during his sermon this week as he honoured the late gospel icon, whom he described as a sister and personal friend.
Bishop Heward-Mills paused for a musical interlude, performing one of Bernice Offei’s most popular songs, Life is Short, a soulful song reflecting on the fleeting nature of life.
Recounting their friendship dating back to Achimota School, the renowned evangelist said they were both on the Western Compound together with Betty, who he described as a mother figure to him.
“She even lived near my house. That’s how she used to sing and all that. And I mean, she’s gone,” he said.
The tribute brought back memories of their teenage years singing together in school in the 1970s.
About Bernice Offei
Bernice Offei died at age 63, just days after she was reported missing in Accra on September 1 and subsequently found safe.
She was celebrated for her inspirational music and a career that produced some of Ghana’s enduring gospel songs, including Life Is Short, Hold On, and Kaa She Gbeyei.
She was a banker by profession who worked with Standard Chartered Bank. She was also an award-winning songwriter, winning Best Female Vocal Performance and Songwriter of the Year at the 2009 Ghana Music Awards.
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