Obituary for Eyitemi Sarah Igbe(neé Otubu)

October 9, 1959 – June 19, 2025
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Eyitemi Sarah Igbe, beloved mother, daughter, sister, and friend, who passed away on June 19, 2025, at the age of 65, at her home in Houston, Texas, surrounded by family and loved ones.

Born on October 9, 1959, in Enugu, Nigeria, Eyitemi was the cherished daughter of Janet Otubu and the late Dr. Godfrey Itse Mene Otubu. At the age of two, her family relocated to Ijora, Lagos, where she spent her formative years, making lasting friendships and developing a deep love for her community. Eyitemi's education took her across Nigeria, attending Ahmadiya Girls Grammar School, Iwere Girls College, and Anglican Girls Grammar School in Benin City, where she graduated in 1976. After further studies in the United Kingdom, she moved to Houston, Texas, in 1979, where she earned her Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Houston.

In 1988, Eyitemi married Osazuwa Sam Igbe, and together they had three children—Theresa, Nicholas, and Zachery. It was in motherhood that Eyitemi truly flourished. Her children were the center of her world, and it was through her love for them that she found her greatest purpose. Eyitemi was the kind of mother who brought calm to chaos, who could ease her children's hearts with just a look or a laugh. The simple moments spent together—whether talking about their days or sitting in silence—were the moments she treasured most. She had a way of making the ordinary extraordinary, and her presence always brought a sense of peace and security. To her children, she was not just a mother but a source of unwavering support, laughter, and wisdom.
Eyitemi's devotion to her family extended beyond her children. Her home was always a place of refuge for anyone in need, where love was unconditional, and generosity flowed freely. She was the kind of person who would drop everything to help, whether through offering a listening ear, a warm meal, or a shoulder to lean on. Eyitemi's love was fierce yet gentle, and she embodied strength and grace in every aspect of her life. Her family and friends will remember her as someone whose kindness knew no bounds and whose love was felt deeply by all who encountered it.

Throughout her life, Eyitemi's commitment to service was a defining characteristic. She worked for Continental Airlines (now United Airlines) for 15 years, yet it was in the field of healthcare where she truly found her calling. Driven by a desire to care for others, Eyitemi pursued nursing, earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Texas Women's University. As a nurse, she became known for her dedication to improving healthcare systems, particularly in patient care and quality management. Whether at the bedside or in the administrative office, Eyitemi's approach to healthcare was rooted in compassion, empathy, and a deep commitment to making the world a better place for those in need.
Eyitemi's faith was the cornerstone of her life. She joined Braeswood Church in the early 1990s and became a devoted member, not only serving as a Sunday School teacher but also through her active participation in mission work. She traveled far and wide, using her skills and passion to bring both medical care and the gospel to underserved communities. Her work with African Christian Medical Mission, Inc. (ACMMI) brought much-needed healthcare to remote areas, and she played a key role in improving the quality of life for countless individuals. Eyitemi was instrumental in bringing clean drinking water to a village in West Africa and worked tirelessly to support educational initiatives for young people in the region.

Closer to home, Eyitemi founded ESO Global Services, LLC, a healthcare consulting firm based in Houston, where she used her expertise to help improves healthcare systems. She worked closely with local agencies to provide care for those who might otherwise have gone without. Her work was a reflection of the deep sense of purpose that guided her life—a purpose rooted in service, compassion, and love for others.
Eyitemi was also an avid traveler, exploring the world with an open heart and mind. Her travels took her to many corners of the globe—from Europe to Haiti, Jamaica to Australia—but no matter where she went, her love for her family remained her anchor. Eyitemi's greatest joy came not from the places she visited, but from the quiet moments shared with her loved ones. It was the small, simple things—the way she would laugh, the way she listened, the way she made her children feel seen and heard—that defined her legacy. She had a way of making every moment feel special, of turning even the most ordinary events into memories that would last a lifetime.

Eyitemi's children reflect on the remarkable woman she was, remembering her not just for the big moments, but for the everyday acts of love, kindness, and grace that shaped their lives. They remember her as a mother who always made them feel at ease, who laughed in the face of adversity, and whose unwavering faith was a constant source of inspiration. Even in the busiest moments of life, Eyitemi had the ability to slow down, listen, and be present—something her children will forever cherish.

Eyitemi is survived by her three children, C. Theresa Igbe, Nicholas Igbe, and Zachery Igbe; her mother, Janet Otubu; and a large extended family of brothers, sisters, and friends. Her impact on the lives of those who knew her cannot be overstated, and her legacy will live on in the countless people she touched, both near and far.

Though Eyitemi's earthly journey has come to an end, her spirit lives on in the example she set—a life of faith, love, service, and unwavering devotion to those around her. She has left behind a legacy of compassion that will continue to inspire those who knew her.

A celebration of Eyitemi's life will take place at Forest Park Westheimer. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be Zelle'd to 8323343385, in Eyitemi's honor.