It’s been a year since Nollywood actor Junior Pope passed away, and for the first time since the tragedy, his wife, Jennifer Awele Odonwodo, has returned to social media.
In a deeply emotional tribute, Jennifer shared how life has drastically changed for her and their three sons—Jason, Jaden, and the youngest, Jamon—since the actor’s untimely passing.
She revealed that the pain of losing her husband remains intense, and the family continues to struggle with the emptiness left behind.
“Your love still surrounds us, your laughter echoes in our hearts, and your presence is felt in the quiet moments when we miss you most,” she wrote.
Jennifer said that the children often speak about the promises their father made—dreams of attending a proper football academy, cheering them on at their first match, and a toy car Jamon still waits for.
“I still don’t have the right words to respond to Jason and Jaden wanting to know if Daddy will fulfill his promise of taking them to a football academy. They said, ‘Daddy told them he wouldn’t miss it for anything in the world.’ Then the littlest one, Jamon (J Papa, as daddy fondly called him), keeps asking when Daddy is bringing the big toy car he promised.”
Despite their pain, she expressed immense gratitude to all those who stood by her and the children during their time of mourning.
“To our beloved, you did not only leave us, your family, but so many who loved you and your works. Though you’re no longer by our side, you live on in every memory, every smile, and every tear. We shall carry you with us always—until we meet again.”
Jennifer concluded with a heartfelt message of acceptance and faith:
“We cannot question God, right? May your soul rest in perfect peace, my love.”
Junior Pope died in April 2024, leaving behind a legacy that continues to touch many in Nollywood and beyond.
