Help Lay Queen Mother Eileen Edwards to Rest in Ghana

Hello family and friends,

My name is Kourtney Callendar, daughter of Kevin Callender—Eileen Edwards’ only son. I’m writing with a heavy heart to share that my grandmother, Eileen Edwards, passed away on August 6, 2025 in Ghana, West Africa after a brief illness.

Eileen loved Ghana deeply. Since the 1960s, she poured her time, energy, and resources into the country’s development. In January 2020, she made Ghana her permanent home and was enstooled as a Development Queen Mother in the Langma community. Even with limited means and mobility challenges, she never complained—she simply showed up for others.

She supported a local private school’s growth.

She helped seniors with meals when they could no longer provide for themselves.

She sponsored several young people in technical skills training.

Grandma Eileen lived generously. Much of her savings and pension went directly into community needs in Langma.

Why we’re asking for help

We have not been able to locate any insurance policy in the U.S., and there are no savings set aside for funeral costs. Because she held the honored title of Queen Mother, the customary funeral rites are more extensive than a standard service. The local committee—with a budget reviewed by a community auditor—has estimated the total at 45,000 Ghana Cedis (about $4,500 USD).

I recently gave birth and am not working, and my father is retired. We’re turning to our community for support to give Grandma Eileen the dignified farewell she earned through a lifetime of service.

Our goal: $5,000 USD

This covers:

Customary Queen Mother funeral rites and logistics

Mortuary and service fees

Community/venue expenses

Videography and upload to YouTube so loved ones in the U.S. can participate remotely

Transfer and administrative fees

Funeral date: September 13, 2025 (in Ghana).

We are working quickly so funds can arrive in time for preparations.

If you’re able, please donate whatever you can. Every gift—large or small—helps. If you can’t give right now, sharing this campaign is also a huge support.

From our family to yours, thank you for helping us honor a woman who spent her life honoring others.

With gratitude,

Kourtney Callendar

(on behalf of her father, Kevin Callender, and our family)