By Sankofaonline Staff Writer
Chicago’s Ghanaian community stood united in grief and reverence this past weekend as it bid a royal farewell to Barima Kwasi Agyepong, the Krontihene of Okuapeman Fekuw of Chicago. A man whose humility, cultural pride, and devotion to unity defined his life and leadership. His sudden passing at age 48 left a void that words can scarcely fill, yet the ceremonies that followed became a radiant celebration of legacy, love, and tradition.
From the solemn wake to the rhythmic pulse of the traditional rites, the city witnessed a pilgrimage of affection and respect. The Ghanaian diaspora, joined by members of the Okuapeman Association of USA and Canada, filled every hall with song, prayer, and remembrance. It was not merely a funeral, it was a royal homegoing.
Born Duke Kwasi Owusu Agyepong on May 1, 1977, in Accra, Ghana, he began his journey at Morning Star School before migrating to Chicago in 1988. His life was marked by discipline and quiet strength. For over two decades, he worked at John Crane, where his mastery earned him the nickname “The Golden Child.” His colleagues admired his calm authority and his ability to lead without noise, a trait that would later define his royal service.
In 2005, he married his beloved Cynthia, and together they built a home filled with laughter, devotion, and faith. Their recent 20th wedding anniversary now stands as a bittersweet milestone, a memory of enduring love and partnership. He leaves behind Cynthia and their four children, who now carry forward his legacy of compassion and integrity.
The farewell began on Friday, April 17, with a wake at Sixth Grace Presbyterian Church, where mourners dressed in solemn black filled the sanctuary beyond capacity. The atmosphere was heavy with emotion, yet dignified, a reflection of the man they came to honor.
On Saturday, April 18, the memorial service drew dignitaries, family, and friends from across North America. Tributes flowed like poetry, each one painting a portrait of a man whose leadership was defined by humility and heart.
- The Okuapeman Fekuw of Chicago hailed him as a bridge between tradition and modern community life.
- Nana Okofrobuor , known in private life as, Nana Yirenkyi Bonsu, the Chicago Okuapeman Association Chief, remembered him as a brother who led through quiet action rather than noise.
- Dr. Akosua Kwabea Osafo’s tribute,on behalf of Okuapeman Association of USA and Canada Secretariat, rich with gratitude and reverence, was read with regal poise by Nana Abena Oye Sempeh I of Ohio Chapter and Abena Dwamena , Okuapemman New York Chapter President. They gave voice to a message that honored him as a compassionate pillar whose influence will endure long after the drums have quieted.
The sermon by Rev. Sam Okyere-Mireku, drawn from Psalm 90, was a stirring reflection on the brevity of life and the wisdom of service. He urged the congregation to “number their days” and live with purpose, as Barima Agyepong had done—anchored in faith, humility, and community.
The rites continued at Palos Heights, where the Traditional Final Funeral Rites unfolded in grandeur. The hall overflowed with mourners clad in red and black, their attire forming a sea of cultural pride and solemnity. Portraits of the late royal adorned the space, while drums, chants, and ancestral rhythms converged to honor a noble son of Okuapeman. It was a moment of cultural transcendence, where grief met tradition, and sorrow found rhythm.
The weekend concluded on Sunday, April 19, with a Thanksgiving Service at the Presbyterian Church of Ghana – Redemption Congregation, where gratitude replaced tears. The congregation gave thanks for a life that had illuminated the path of many—a life that will continue to inspire long after the drums have quieted.
Barima Kwasi Agyepong’s passing leaves a void that words can scarcely fill. Yet his legacy—rooted in humility, service, and love—remains indelible. He was a man who carried his crown not as a symbol of power, but as a call to serve. In his silence, he led. In his kindness, he healed. In his devotion, he united.
Chicago has lost a royal son, but his spirit endures, in the hearts of his family, in the traditions he upheld, and in the community he helped build.
Damirifa Due, Nana Krontihene. Rest in perfect peace.
Pictures of the celebrations are posted below, capturing the emotion, grandeur, and cultural splendor that defined this unforgettable royal farewell.
