In her tribute, Mrs. Moniba recounted the morning of January 6, 1986—the inauguration of President Doe—as a defining moment in their relationship.
Monrovia – In a poignant and deeply personal tribute, Mrs. Minita K. Moniba, former Second Lady of Liberia and widow of the late Vice President Dr. Harry F. Moniba, has paid her final respects to Mrs. Nancy B. Doe, describing the former First Lady as a beacon of grace, humility, and quiet strength whose legacy will long endure in the hearts of Liberians.
Nancy B. Doe, widow of Liberia’s 20th President Samuel Kanyon Doe, passed away recently, prompting an outpouring of condolences and reflections on her life of public service, resilience, and national symbolism.
In her tribute, Mrs. Moniba recounted the morning of January 6, 1986—the inauguration of President Doe—as a defining moment in their relationship. “Nancy called me early in the morning and said, ‘We both have to wear all white. The world will be watching, and they must see that the women of Liberia are pure-hearted and kind,” Mrs. Moniba recalled.
“She was graceful, intentional, and always thinking of the deeper meaning behind every action,” she added.
Mrs. Moniba, who worked closely with the late First Lady during Liberia’s most challenging political periods, remembered Nancy B. Doe not only for her ceremonial role but also for her tangible contributions to social welfare, particularly in championing causes related to women, children, and people living with disabilities.
“Many never saw the long hours we spent together visiting orphanages, working with the Group of 77 and the disabled community, and walking through markets to connect with the women of Liberia—the heartbeat of our nation,” Moniba noted.
She described the late First Lady as “a woman of pride, humility, fierce loyalty to her children, and deep love for her country,” emphasizing the emotional and moral leadership she provided during turbulent times in Liberia’s history.
“Liberia has truly lost a guiding pillar—someone whose life stood as a symbol of dignity and service. And though we mourn, we must also celebrate her life,” Moniba said. “Nancy B. Doe lived with purpose, compassion, and grace, and her legacy will live on in the hearts of those she touched.”
As Liberia reflects on the legacy of one of its most iconic First Ladies, Mrs. Moniba’s words offer a solemn reminder of the quiet impact Nancy B. Doe had on the country’s social and political fabric.
“May her soul rest in perfect peace,” she concluded.
