Veteran Ghanaian gospel musician Bernice Offei, renowned for hit songs including Life Is Short, Hold On and Kaa She Gbeyei, has died at the age of 63.
News of her death was announced on Facebook by fellow gospel musician Nii Noi on Saturday, September 12, 2026.
Gospel music producer Kwesi Ernest also confirmed the sad news the same day, writing: “We regret to announce the passing of our mother, Mrs Bernine Offei. She went to her maker this morning. A gospel Music legend has fallen.”
Some media reports subsequently confirmed her demise.
Her death comes just days after she was reported missing, an incident that triggered widespread concern among colleagues, fans and members of the public. She was later found safe, according to reports at the time.
However, photographs of her that circulated online after she was located suggested she had been unwell, deepening worries about her health in the days leading up to her passing.
Bernice Offei was one of the recognised and enduring voices of Ghana’s gospel music scene, with a career that spanned several decades. She built a loyal following through songs that blended strong Christian messages with honest reflections on faith, perseverance, hope and the brevity of life.
Her music resonated with congregations and ordinary listeners alike, offering comfort and encouragement in both good times and difficult seasons.
Among her best-known recordings are ‘Hold On’, ‘Life Is Short’ and ‘Kaa She Gbeyei’. These tracks became staples on gospel playlists and continue to be streamed and shared on digital platforms.
Other songs closely associated with her include Odo A Wodo Mi Nti, Nyame Kokroko, N’adom Ara Kwa and Don Bi Rebo. Together they form a body of work that cemented her place among Ghana’s veteran gospel artists.
Throughout her career, Offei was respected not only for her distinctive voice but also for the sincerity and spiritual depth of her songwriting and performances.
She belonged to a generation of gospel musicians who helped shape the sound and message of contemporary Ghanaian Christian music, influencing younger artists while remaining relevant to long-time listeners.
Her passing is expected to be felt deeply within the gospel music community. The concern that surrounded her brief disappearance only days earlier had already drawn attention to her well-being.
The confirmation of her death on Saturday morning has therefore come as a heavy blow to many who had been hoping for her full recovery.
As tributes begin to emerge, colleagues and fans are remembering a woman whose music offered strength and reassurance to countless people. Tracks such as ‘Life Is Short’ and ‘Hold On’ in particular are being recalled for their timeless messages of faith and resilience.
Bernice Offei leaves behind a lasting musical legacy. Her songs remain available to new and old audiences, ensuring that her voice and message will continue to be heard.
