By Reuben Hadzide, Editorial Contributor
Frankfort, Illinois — The Ghanaian community across Chicago and its surrounding metropolis is cloaked in sorrow following the sudden passing of one of its brightest young stars, Edward Bekoe Amankwah III. At just 22 years old, Edward’s life was a testament of discipline, faith, and quiet leadership. His death on August 6, 2025, after a brief illness, has left a void that reverberates far beyond his hometown of Frankfort.
Born on April 23, 2003, Edward was the beloved son of Mr. Edward and Mrs. Anita Amankwah,whose grace in grief has become a quiet beacon for others. “We are devastated,” his mother Anita shared, her voice steady but heavy. “But we are Christians. We believe in resurrection. That doesn’t make the pain easier, it just gives us something to hold onto.”
Edward was a graduate student at Indiana State University, preparing for his final football season as a defensive back. A proud alumnus of Lincoln-Way East High School, he had once dominated the field as a linebacker in District 210. But beyond the gridiron, Edward was pursuing a graduate degree in athletic training, having already earned his bachelor’s from the same university in Terre Haute.
“He was the kind of young man who made you believe in the future,” said Julia Doodo, a family friend and fellow member of the Nurses Association of Illinois (NAI), where Anita serves.
The news of his passing sent shockwaves through the Immigrant Ghanaian Community. “I couldn’t believe it,” said Albert Owusu-Ansah, a mentor and community organizer. “Edward was one of those rare souls who carried himself with quiet dignity. He was going to be one of our future leaders.”
“He was humble, focused, and kind. You could see the leadership in him even when he wasn’t trying to lead.”, Mrs. Linda Asare recounted.
“He was a gentle giant,” said Naa-Afi Amankwah, his aunt. “He never raised his voice, but when he spoke, you listened.”
“I saw him play last season. He had fire in his feet and grace in his heart,” recalled a former teammate. “He was the kind of player who made you better just by standing next to him.”
“Edward was the dream every parent prays for,” said a local pastor. “And now, we must carry his legacy forward.”
The final farewell for Edward Bekoe Amankwah III will take place on September 6, 2025, at Leak & Sons Funeral Home, 18400 S. Pulaski Rd., Country Club Hills, IL 60478.
- Wake: 10:00 A.M. – 11:00 A.M.
- Service: 11:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M.
- Burial: Mount Hope Cemetery, 11500 S. Fairfield Ave., Chicago, IL 60655
- Repast: Immediately following burial at the funeral home
- Dress Code: Black & White, in honor of Edward’s grace and strength
Contacts for Support & Condolences
- Edward Amankwah: 312-656-1652
- Anita Amankwah: 773-319-7473
- Linda Asare: 708-224-7625
- Albert Owusu-Ansah: 708-769-9563
- Naa-Afi Amankwah: 773-344-0886
Zelle Contributions:
Please send contributions via Zelle to Edward Amankwah at 312-656-1652
In the days since his passing, the community has begun to speak of Edward not just in terms of loss, but in terms of legacy. Some propose establishment of a scholarship in his name for young Ghanaian-American athletes pursuing higher education. “Edward’s story must not end here,” said Joyce Blebu. “It must become a bridge for others.”
In Akan tradition, we say “Onipa bɛyɛ bi”, to affirm that a person has made a meaningful impact. But Edward, in his youth, did more than merely ‘something.’ He offered us a living portrait of excellence, humility, and faith, walking in harmony, shaping legacy before its time.
And now, we walk forward with his memory as our guide.
