Albany- In thanksgiving for a life of faith, wisdom, and service, we announce the heavenly homegoing of Dr. Christopher Adiewere Adigwe, The Ajie Oduah Obiojigbani Adigwe I, who departed this life peacefully on May 9, 2025, at Ellis Hospital in Schenectady, New York.
Born on January 1, 1928, in the serene Umudei Royal Village of Outa, Imo State, Nigeria, Christopher was the cherished son of the late Chief George Adigwe Okpara and the late Mrs. Elizabeth wadoro Adigwe.
From an early age, Christopher exhibited a brilliant mind, a kind heart, and a strong moral compass deeply rooted in his unwavering Catholic faith.
He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Mrs. Mary Akon Adigwe, his devoted parents, and several dear siblings. Though their absence is felt deeply, we find comfort in the enduring legacy of love and grace that binds them eternally.
A man of remarkable intellect and boundless curiosity, Christopher's journey through life was marked by perseverance, excellence, and service. He began his education at Sacred Heart Primary School in Oguta, Imo state, later attending the esteemed Christ the King College (CKC) Onitsha. Driven by a passion for learning and a desire to make a difference, he pursued higher education in the United States during the turbulent years of the Nigerian Civil War. After fleeing Nigeria in 1968 by way of Ghana, he settled briefly in California, where he earned a Bachelor's degree in Advertising and a Master's degree in Counseling and Guidance from Santa Maria College in San Luis Obispo.
He later returned to his homeland, where he furthered his academic journey by obtaining a Ph.D. in Counseling and Guidance from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. His brilliance and dedication to education were evident not only in his academic achievements but also in his professional contributions.
Throughout his varied and impactful career, Dr. Adigwe held several esteemed positions. From working in advertising at Afromedia in Aba and Lagos, to serving at Continental Bank in Lagos, Nigeria. counseling at San Quentin Prison in California, in the early 1970s and finally becoming the Director of the School of Continuing Education at the Institute of Management and Technology (IMT), Enugu, Nigeria. His leadership and guidance left a lasting mark everywhere he went.
Dr. Adigwe was a man of great faith, a proud Catholic and an esteemed member of the Knights of Saint Mulumba (KSM). He lived his life according to the principles of love, charity, and humility. He made many charitable contributions to his beloved home church parish, Sacred Heart as he strived to make God's word more impactful to the hearts of his beloved community. Dr. Adigwe was a prayer warrior who touched many lives right here in BCA. He prayed and interceded privately for many families going through diverse difficulties of this life's journey. His gentle strength, deep spirituality, and joyful spirit inspired all who knew him. He had a hearty laugh, a warm presence, and a kind word for everyone he met. Whether offering wisdom, lending a listening ear, or sharing stories from his remarkable life, Christopher embodied compassion, resilience, and integrity. He loved fishing and playing golf.
He was a loving father, and grandfather, a loyal friend, and a pillar of strength to his community. His legacy will forever be carried in the hearts of those he loved and those who loved him.
For the Chief, this transitioning is a Home Going Celebration! May his beautiful soul rest in perfect peace, and may his memory continue to be a guiding light for us all.
Dr. Adigwe is lovingly survived by his four children: Ogedi Adigwe (California, USA), Mrs Uche Adigwe Adetola (London, UK), Anthony Adigwe (Canada), and Maria Nkechi Adigwe Akeru (Albany, NY, USA). He also leaves behind many grandchildren and great-grandchildren who brought immense joy to his heart, along with beloved siblings, extended family, dear friends, and countless others whose lives he touched with his wisdom, humor, and compassion.
Friday, May 23, 2025
8:00 - 9:00 am (Eastern time)
St. Joan of Arc & Black Catholic Apostolate
Friday, May 23, 2025
Starts at 9:00 am (Eastern time)
St. Joan of Arc & Black Catholic Apostolate
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