A HEARTFELT TRIBUTE TO SAMDY ABAH (ZELDI)

Today, my heart is weighed down with sorrow as I’ve just received the devastating news that my beloved friend, Sandy ABAH, also known by her Jewish name Zeldi, passed away in August 2023. This revelation has struck me like a sudden wave, leaving me overwhelmed with grief, for this is the first time I have heard of her passing. The last time I communicated with her was before her birthday in July 2023.

This morning, March 23rd, 2025, I felt a deep and unshakable impulse to reach out to Sandy with a simple note, just to check in on her well-being. But when my email bounced back, a wave of disbelief washed over me. It had been so long since I had seen her online, though I knew she had been battling back pain for a while.

I remember vividly our Zoom conversations in 2022, where she appeared frail and not quite herself. At the time, I thought it was part of ritual for her spiritual journey or perhaps fasting, whatever! Little did I know that this was a sign of something much deeper. In my search for answers this morning of March 23rd, 2025, I typed her name into Google, hoping to find her still actively engaged at UBC, only to be met with the heart-wrenching news of her passing. The shock has left me reeling and struggling to comprehend this loss.

I’ve known Sandy since 2006. She was a steadfast and cherished presence in my life—always a source of unwavering support for my music career, constantly reaching out to check in on me. We shared a mutual love for the music of Spyro Gyra, Pat Metheny, Bob James, and countless other smooth jazz artists. Though Sandy was a quiet soul, she would often sing over the phone, sharing her favorite songs with me. Those moments, filled with her warm and joyful voice, are etched in my heart forever.

Sandy adored singers like Kenny Loggins, Darryl & Oat, Lou Graham, and Michael McDonald. It was always a blessing to hear her sing these songs, infusing them with a unique light and warmth that brightened every conversation.

Though words feel inadequate in expressing the depth of my sorrow, I send all my love, prayers, and blessings to her, wherever her spirit may now reside in the vastness of the cosmos. May her soul rest in eternal peace, embraced by the light of love, compassion, and tranquility. I will forever hold her memory close and cherish the beautiful impact she had on my life.

With deep gratitude and love,
Constant BOTY
Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
West Africa