Dr. Chukwuemeka Onwubu

Dr. Chukwuemeka Onwubu, 86, passed away Tuesday, August 12, 2025. Celebration of Life will be Saturday, October 25, 11:00 AM at Christ Episcopal Church, 105 Cottage Place, Ridgewood, NJ 07450. His care entrusted to HOPE Funeral Home, 165 Carnegie Place, Fayetteville, GA 30214 (770) 461-9222. 

The passing of Dr. Chukwuemeka Onwubu saddened us all, however we still want to rejoice for he has triumphantly returned to our Heavenly Father!

Chukwuemeka, often referred to as Emeka, was born in Umueke, Owerre-Nkwoji Nkwerre LGA Imo State Nigeria to Mr. James Onwubu and Mrs. Grace Mboma on the 23rd of September 1938.

Emeka came to America in the 60’s to pursue higher education and more opportunities for himself and his wife. Over the course of his career, he received multiple degrees-- a Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics from Northwestern University in 1966, a Master of Science in Mathematics from Michigan State University in 1970, a Master of Arts in Sociology from Michigan State University in 1971, and a Doctorate in Sociology from Michigan State University in 1975.

Emeka’s published articles have been in journals such as the Western Journal of Black Studies and The Journal of Modern African Studies. His work focused on topics of race, ethnicity and postcolonial politics in Africa, with a specific interest in Nigerian society.

Emeka enjoyed learning but most of all he loved to teach and educate; it was his passion! His teaching career spanned over five decades at various colleges and universities, and at home with his kids, of course! He was a proud family man and rejoiced in community. He volunteered to work the voting polls every election cycle, was an avid member of his church community, a mentor, and a tutor to those in need.

He passed away on the 12th of August 2025, at home, surrounded by his family.

He leaves behind his loving wife of 48 years, Nkechi, his five children, Chukwunyere, Egondu, Ogechi, Okechukwu, and Okwuchi, his brother Chijioke, a grandchild, cousins, nieces, nephews, sons-in-law, a daughter-in-law, and an uncle.

Emeka was loved by all, he was respected, he was admired, he was trusted. He will be greatly missed! May His Soul Rest In Eternal Peace! May His Spirit Abide In Eternal Bliss!

Please join us for his CELEBRATION OF LIFE through our Lord Jesus Christ. This will be held on the 25th of October 2025 at 11:00am, at Christ Episcopal Church, located at 105 Cottage Place, Ridgewood, NJ. All family, friends, and colleagues are welcome.

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