Squadron Leader Ivy Naa Ayorkor Tetteh was born on 23rd September 1987, to Mr. Fred Tetteh and Mrs. Patience Tetteh.
She was the younger of two children and shared a close and loving bond with her only sister, Mrs. Norma Mercy Naa Ayeley Owusu-Agyeman. From her earliest days, her parents recognized in her a bright, disciplined, and determined young girl destined for greatness.
Her educational journey began at Honeybabe Nursery School, where she attended from 1989 to 1991. Even at that tender age, Ivy stood out for her curiosity and eagerness to learn. She then proceeded to the University Primary and Junior Secondary School (now University Basic Schools), where she pursued her basic and junior high education from 1991 to August 2002.
During these formative years, Ivy developed not only a love for learning but also the foundations of the discipline and excellence that would define her entire life.
After successfully completing her Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) in 2002, Ivy gained admission to the prestigious Aburi Girls’ Senior High School, where she pursued General Arts. Her time at Aburi Girls was marked by exceptional academic performance, leadership, and a vibrant personality. Through sheer hard work and commitment, she consistently ranked among the top performers in her class, earning recognition for academic excellence and ultimately receiving a scholarship award.
Beyond academics, Ivy had a natural flair for dance. Her passion for dancing made her a familiar face at school events, where she proudly represented her class in numerous dance competitions.
She graduated from Aburi Girls’ Senior High School in July 2005 after successfully sitting for the Senior Secondary School Certificate Examination (SSSCE).
Ivy’s Christian journey began early. She was baptized in the Methodist Church as a baby an introduction to the faith that would later anchor her values and guide her path. While at Aburi Girls’ Senior High School, she deepened her walk with God and was confirmed in the Presbyterian Church, solidifying her personal commitment to Christ.
Upon entering the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) in 2006, Ivy joined the National Union of Presbyterian Students, Ghana (NUPSG) in her first year. Her dedication to service and her natural leadership abilities quickly became evident. In the early part of 2007, she joined the Organizing Wing of the Union, where she faithfully served throughout her time at the university.
Saturdays often found Ivy at the service grounds sweeping, cleaning, arranging chairs, and setting up canopies in readiness for Sunday worship. She worked diligently and joyfully, often helping to organize programs and events for the fellowship. Her selflessness and motherly care made her affectionately known as “Mother Ivy” among members of the organizing wing. Her faith and commitment were rewarded with leadership roles within the fellowship. In the 2009/2010 academic year, she was elected as the Secretary of the Organizing Wing, and later, in the 2011/2012 academic year, she rose to become the President of the Organizing Wing a testament to her dedication, discipline, and heart for service in God’s vineyard.
From a very young age, Ivy had nurtured a clear and unwavering passion for architecture. So, when her outstanding SSSCE results arrived, it came as no surprise that she chose to pursue her lifelong dream. In 2006, she gained admission to KNUST to study Architecture a programme she embraced wholeheartedly.
She graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Architecture in 2010 and later obtained a Postgraduate Diploma in Architecture in 2012. Her time at KNUST was characterized by diligence, creativity, and determination to make her mark in a field known for its rigor and precision.
After her studies, Ivy completed her National Service at the Accra Metropolitan Assembly
(AMA) Works Department. Her exceptional work ethic, humility, and attention to details earned her the admiration of her supervisors and colleagues, leading to her retention as a permanent staff member of the department.
While working at the AMA, she continued to advance professionally, successfully passing all the required qualifying examinations and fulfilling the prescribed practical experience requirements needed for recognition as a professional architect. In 2017, she achieved a major career milestone when she was formally recognized as an Associate of the Ghana Institute of Architects (GIA) a proud moment that reflected years of hard work and commitment to excellence.
Ivy continued to serve diligently at the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) Works Department until 2018, when she felt called to a higher purpose of national service. On October 19, 2018, she was commissioned into the Ghana Armed Forces as an officer in the Ghana Air Force. Through hard work, professionalism, and dedication, she rose to the rank of Squadron Leader. She was posted to the General Headquarters, Directorate of Engineer Services, where she applied her architectural expertise, discipline, and leadership to every assignment, leaving an enduring mark of excellence and commitment.
She continued to serve faithfully and diligently in the Ghana Air Force until she took ill in the early part of this year. For several months, she fought courageously moving in and out of the hospital with faith and resilience, surrounded by the love and prayers of her family and colleagues. But when her earthly mission was complete, the Lord, in His infinite wisdom, called her home to eternal rest on 19th October 2025.
Though her passing has left an unfillable void, we take comfort in the words of 2 Timothy 4:7-8 — “She fought a good fight, she finished her course, she kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for her a crown of righteousness.”
Within the Ghana Armed Forces, Ivy was admired for her professionalism, sense of duty, and humility. She served with passion, distinction, and integrity qualities that earned her respect and affection from both colleagues and superiors alike.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Ivy will always be remembered as a loving daughter to Mr. and Mrs. Tetteh, a devoted sister to Mrs. Norma Mercy Naa Ayeley Owusu-Agyeman, a loving Aunty, a caring sister in-law, a loyal friend, a mentor to many, and a woman of deep faith.
She lived a life full of purpose, guided by discipline, service, and a strong belief in God. Her journey, though brief, leaves behind a legacy of excellence, compassion, and selfless service.
She lived well. She served well. She loved deeply.
Squadron Leader Ivy Naa Ayorkor Tetteh your light will forever shine in the hearts of all who knew and loved you.
Rest peacefully in the arms of your Maker.
