Ghana has lost one of its most respected voices in gospel music.
Veteran gospel musician and songwriter Bernice Offei has died at the age of 63, leaving behind a musical legacy that spans decades and continues to live in the hearts of many Ghanaians.
News of her death was announced on Saturday, September 12, 2026, with reports identifying her as the celebrated voice behind songs including “Life Is Short,” “Hold On,” and “Kaa She Gbeyei.”
WHO WAS BERNICE OFFEI?
Bernice Offei was more than a gospel singer. She was a songwriter, inspirational musician, and a woman whose music carried messages about faith, perseverance, gratitude, and the realities of life.
She was known for a distinctive musical style that placed strong emphasis on meaningful lyrics and spiritual reflection. Her songs spoke to ordinary people going through difficult moments and reminded listeners to hold on to God.
Her famous song “Life Is Short” became particularly significant because of its message about the brevity of human life and the need to live with purpose.
A career built on faith and music
Bernice Offei had a long and distinguished career in Ghanaian gospel music. She released several albums, with reports crediting her with six albums during her career.
Among her recognized works are “We Are Victors,” “Hold On,” “Me Kosu,” “Grateful,” and “Life.” Her music earned her a strong following among lovers of inspirational and gospel music.
Her sixth album, Life, released in 2007, produced some of the songs for which she is widely remembered.
Her contribution to Ghanaian gospel music was also recognized at the Ghana Music Awards, where she won awards for Best Female Vocal Performance and Songwriter of the Year in 2009.
Music was not her only profession
Interestingly, Bernice Offei was also a professional banker. She worked with Standard Chartered Bank before eventually moving into music full-time.
Her decision to devote herself more fully to gospel music demonstrated the seriousness with which she regarded her musical calling.
Beyond entertainment, she was known for encouraging gospel musicians to concentrate on their calling and ministry rather than making awards the ultimate measure of success.
HER HUSBAND AND CHILDREN
Bernice Offei was married to Professor Samuel Kwame Offei, a respected academic associated with the University of Ghana.
The couple had two children. Reports describing her family life portray Bernice as a devoted wife and mother who maintained a family life alongside her professional and musical responsibilities.
THE SEPTEMBER DISAPPEARANCE
Just days before her death, Bernice Offei became the subject of national concern.
On Tuesday, September 1, 2026, the 63-year-old musician was reported missing after she was last seen around Nyaho-Tamakloe Street in the Agbogba area of Accra.
Her family, friends, colleagues, and members of the public appealed for information to help locate her. The disappearance generated widespread concern across Ghana’s gospel music community, with several musicians joining the call for help.
Thankfully, on September 2, reports emerged that Bernice Offei had been found safe, bringing an end to the immediate search. 3News and Onua Online both reported that she had been found.
At that time, details surrounding where she was found and the circumstances of her disappearance were not publicly established.
Then came the heartbreaking news
Barely days after the country had received the news that Bernice Offei had been found, another announcement shocked the gospel music community.
On Saturday, September 12, 2026, reports confirmed that Bernice Offei had died at the age of 63.
Her death has brought renewed attention to the message contained in one of her best-known songs: “Life Is Short.”
The song, which reminded listeners about the temporary nature of earthly life, now carries an even deeper meaning for many who grew up listening to her.
Her voice has gone silent, but her music still speaks.
May the family, friends, colleagues, and the entire Ghanaian gospel music community find strength and comfort in this difficult time.
Rest well, Bernice Offei. Your music lives on.
BY Samson Bonney
Host, Onua Power Worship and Ahinta Sem
Monday to Friday, 1:30 PM to 3:00 PM
Onua 95.1 FM
