By FIRST ZEALMEDIACAST BLOG
The African Scrabble community mourns with the most decorated Nigerian Scrabble champion Tuoyo Mayuku following the passing of her beloved aunt, late Mrs. Sa’adatu Gloria Shittu, who died at the age of 69.
In a deeply emotional tribute, Mayuku, the most successful female Scrabble player of all time, described her late aunt as the woman who not only cared for her, but also played a defining role in shaping her journey as a Scrabble player and as a person.
“My beloved Aunty, my Queen-Maker goes home!”
Mayuku recalled how her aunt came into her life at a crucial moment, helping her pick up the pieces when her Scrabble journey appeared to be falling apart.
“You found me when my Scrabble board was scattered, and picked up my rack when it was thrown away. You shaped me into the better person I am today.”
She also remembered her aunt’s home in Jos, which was initially meant to keep her focused on her studies at the University of Jos and away from excessive Scrabble activities.
Instead, it became a sanctuary where her passion for the game continued to flourish.
“Your house in Jos, which was supposed to curb my Scrabble activities during my study days at the University of Jos, became my safe haven as I met you with a Scrabble board playing the game I was supposed to give up.”
The memories of her aunt for Mayuku, will forever be intertwined with the vocabulary, victories and milestones that defined her illustrious, trophies laced and remarkable Scrabble career.
“Every Bingo, every nine-letter word, and every win will forever bear your name.”
As she bids farewell to the woman she lovingly calls her Queen-Maker, Mayuku says her aunt’s influence will continue to live through the champion she helped shape.
“Rest well, Auntie. Your Word lives on!”
The funeral arrangements for late Mrs. Sa’adatu Gloria Shittu include a Service of Songs on Thursday, October 15, 2026, at Mountain of Fire & Miracles Ministries, Ekete Inland, Udu, Delta State, with the funeral service scheduled for Saturday, October 17, at Ughwrughelli Primary School, Agbarho.
