Mr Jerome Nwonumah

In Loving Memory of Ichie Sir Jerome Onwudiwe Nwonumah (KSJI) May 5, 1932 – June 26,2026 Ichie Sir Jerome Onwudiwe Nwonumah, fondly known as Ichie, peacefully transitioned to glory at the age of 94, surrounded by family and love at his residence in Fate, Texas. Born on May 5, 1932, he was the last surviving child of the late Mazi Chief Leo Nwonumah and late Nmaa Margareth Nwonumah. Throughout his life, he exemplified faith, dedication, humility, and service to both God and humanity. He was devoted to the love of his life, Late Priscilla Ukonwa Nwonumah, with whom he built a home rooted in faith, love, and family. Together, they raised eight children and created a legacy that continues through generations. Known for his integrity, wisdom, and selfless service, Ichie earned the admiration and respect of his community. He was honored with the prestigious title of Ichie Ezelabu of Azia and served as a distinguished member of the king’s (Igwe) cabinet. His kindred further recognized his leadership and character by conferring upon him the revered title of Nwanochiri Obi of Ukwakwa Azia. A man of profound faith, lifelong Catholic, and dedicated noble member of the Knights of St. John International, Ichie lived a life rooted in devotion to God. Until his final day, he faithfully attended daily Mass, drawing comfort and strength from prayer, the holy Bible and the Holy Rosary, and his abiding trust in God's providence. After completing his education at Government School, Ikot Ekpene, Nigeria Police Force South Police College, Ikeja, Lagos, and the Rapid Results Institute, London, he embarked on a distinguished career marked by public service and leadership. He joined the Nigeria Police Force in 1951 and later served as a Production Supervisor with Lever Brothers Nigeria Limited. During the Nigerian Civil War, he courageously served as a Second Lieutenant. Following the war, he relocated with his family to Aba, where he continued his career with Lever Brothers before joining PZ Industries Nigeria Limited, serving with distinction until his retirement in 1986. In 1993, he was appointed Chairman of the Mass Transit Board in Aba Local Government Area, where he earned widespread respect for his integrity, wisdom, and exemplary leadership. Following the passing of his beloved wife in 1991, Ichie relocated to the United States in 1994. Remaining steadfast in his devotion to her memory, he spent the rest of his life as a widower. During these years, he dedicated himself to supporting his children and helping to raise and guide his grandchildren. He became a constant source of wisdom, encouragement, spiritual counsel, and unconditional love to all who knew him. Affectionately known as “Ezinna Gburugburu” (“Father of All”), an honorary title bestowed by the Azia Catholic Community, he was revered for his fatherly guidance, steadfast faith, and boundless generosity. The title reflected the deep love, respect, and admiration he inspired throughout the community. A lover of photography, videography, music, and family, he found his greatest joy in worship, fellowship, and time spent with loved ones. His presence brought comfort, his counsel offered guidance, and his faith inspired all who encountered him. He is survived by his eight children, thirty-five grandchildren, and thirteen great-grandchildren, along with countless relatives, friends, and community members whose lives were touched by his kindness, generosity, and enduring example. Ichie’s legacy is one of faith, service, peace, unity, and love. His life was a testament to righteousness and selfless devotion, and his memory will remain a lasting blessing to all who knew him. Though he has departed from this earthly life, the values he embodied and the lives he touched will continue to inspire generations to come. “The righteous man walks in his integrity; his children are blessed after him.” Proverbs 20:7 ��️ Celebration of Life Events In Loving Memory of Ichie Sir Jerome Onwudiwe Nwonumah May 5, 1932 – June 26, 2026 ✝️ Holy Sacrifice of the Mass September 16, 2026 Offered by the Nwakibu Family �� St. John Neumann Catholic Church Gaithersburg, Maryland �� Time: 6:30 a.m. ✝️ Memorial Mass September 18, 2026 �� Holy Trinity Catholic Church Maitama, Abuja, Nigeria �� Time: 5:00 p.m. ✝️ Memorial Mass October 10, 2026 �� Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church Rockwall, Texas �� Time: 11:00 a.m. ��️ Christian Wake-Keeping Ceremony November 18, 2026 ��Aba Resident- 131 Azikiwe Road Aba, Abia State, Nigeria �� Time: 6:00 p.m. ⚱️ Funeral Arrangements �� Service of Songs & ��️Christian Wake-Keeping December 29, 2026 ��The Nwonumah Family Compound Ukwakwa-Azia, Ihiala LGA, Anambra State, Nigeria �� Time: 4:00 p.m. ✝️ Funeral Mass & Interment December 30, 2026 �� St. Andrew's Catholic Church, Azia �� Burial Mass: 9:00 a.m. ⚱️ Interment Immediately following the Mass at the Nwonumah Family Compound. �� Reception St. Andrew's / Azia Central School Field �� Thanksgiving Mass January 3, 2027 �� St. Andrew's Catholic Church, Azia �� Time: 9:00 a.m. "Blessed are those who die in the Lord; they will rest from their labor, for their deeds will follow them." Revelation 14:13 ��️ May the soul of Ichie Sir Jerome Onwudiwe Nwonumah rest in perfect peace. Amen.