The St. James Old Boys Association (JOBA) has held a solemn requiem mass in memory of the late Squadron Leader Peter Baafemi Anala, a distinguished alumnus and member of the St. James Seminary and Senior High School 2007 Year Group, who tragically lost his life in a military helicopter crash on Wednesday, August 6, 2025.
The memorial service, held at the St. James Seminary Chapel in Sunyani, brought together old students, current students, teaching staff, and friends of the institution to celebrate the life and service of the fallen officer. Among the dignitaries present was the former Deputy Attorney General, Alfred Tuah Yeboah.
The atmosphere was filled with hymns, prayers, and heartfelt tributes. Squadron Leader Anala was remembered for his humility, dedication, and exceptional service to both his alma mater and the Ghana Armed Forces.
He was among three military officers and five other government officials who died when a Z-9 military helicopter travelling from Accra to Obuasi crashed in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region.
In his sermon, Rev. Fr. Sixtus Evans Appiah Kyeremeh, a classmate of the late officer, urged Christians to live in readiness for eternity, saying, “Though Peter is no more, we believe we shall meet again in heaven. Life is uncertain, and we must always prepare our hearts for the Lord.”
Vice President of JOBA, Mark Agyei Gyamfi, described the news of Anala’s death as a devastating blow to the association. “Peter played his part well in life. He was committed, humble, and dependable. We encourage everyone to serve faithfully in whatever role they are called to,” he said.
Sharing a personal reflection, close friend and classmate Donatus Atibil described Anala as “loving, easy-going, and a joy to be around. He brought laughter and warmth to every gathering.”
The requiem mass formed part of a broader national period of mourning for the eight Ghanaians who died in the crash. Their final funeral rites will be held at the forecourt of the State House in Accra on Friday, August 15, 2025.
As the St. James community bid farewell to their fallen son, the solemn words from the altar echoed through the chapel: “As the dice is cast, to dust we shall return.”