Bernice Offei battled dementia for years before her death – former manager reveals

Veteran Ghanaian gospel musician Bernice Offei battled dementia for about four to five years before her death at the age of 63, her former manager, Kwasi Ernest, has revealed.

Ernest disclosed this during an interview on Max TV on Monday, September 14, 2026, while discussing the circumstances surrounding the singer’s death and her disappearance shortly before she passed away.

According to him, Offei’s condition had gradually affected her memory, orientation and ability to carry out some everyday activities.

He explained that the illness eventually became severe, leaving the musician disoriented and unable to find her way home after leaving the house.

Kwasi Ernest said Offei went missing from home at a time when her condition had deteriorated.

Her family initially conducted a private search for her, but after their efforts proved unsuccessful, they made the disappearance public and appealed to members of the public for assistance.

Offei, who had reportedly been reported missing on September 2, 2026, was later found.

Following her discovery, the gospel musician was taken to a hospital for medical assessment and treatment rather than being taken directly home.

Ernest said Offei appeared to be in relatively good condition when she was found, but her health subsequently deteriorated while she was receiving medical care.

She died on Saturday, September 12, 2026, at the age of 63.

Reflecting on Offei’s life and character, Kwasi Ernest described her as a disciplined and deeply God-fearing woman whose Christian faith extended beyond her music.

He said Offei made a conscious effort to live according to the Christian principles she professed through her songs and ministry.

Bernice Offei was one of the respected names in Ghana’s gospel music industry, with songs such as “Life Is Too Short” and “Hold On” among her notable works.

Her death has since attracted tributes from fellow musicians, fans and admirers, who have remembered her for her contribution to Ghanaian gospel music.

The revelation about her long battle with dementia has also shed more light on the circumstances surrounding her disappearance in the days leading up to her death.