Dr. Zacheus Bamidele Okediji

Dr. Zacheus Bamidele Okediji of Ijoko Ogun, Nigeria, born on March 25, 1938, entered into eternal rest on July 2, 2024. Dr. Okediji led an extraordinary life, marked by his international career, extensive travels, significant career achievements, and dedication to his family.

He attended Baptist Boys High School. Upon moving to the U.S. to further his education, Dr. Okediji earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology from Berea College, a Master of Public Health degree from Yale University, and a Doctorate in Public Health from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. 

After stints working in North Carolina and Nigeria, Dr. Okediji's career brought him to Nashville in 1970, where he served as a dedicated educator at Meharry Medical College for several years. He later shifted his focus to the import/export industry, where he played a pivotal role in strengthening international trade links and fostering economic growth in his homeland, Nigeria. His significant accomplishments garnered numerous awards and accolades.

In his retirement, Dr. Okediji founded the Jacob and Rachel Memorial Fund in memory of his cherished parents. He remained an active member of the Nashville Baha'i Center until his death.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother Olusegun Okediji and sister Olubunmi Famadewa. Dr. Okediji is survived by his wife, Evelyn; his daughters, Ronke and Nike; his son, Deji Okediji; his daughter-in-law, Aleta; his grandchildren, Zuzu and Minnie Okediji; and a host of nieces and nephews in the United States and Nigeria. His legacy of dedication, service, and love will be cherished by all who knew him.

Burial: 10 am at the Hills of Calvary Memorial Park, 4039 Jordonia Station Rd, Nashville, TN 37218

Memorial Services and Visitation with Family: Nashville Bahá’í Community Center, 1556 Bell Road Nashville, TN 37211(615-333-2242) immediately following the burial services approximately 11:30AM.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Senior Living Foundation of the American Foreign Service https://www.slfoundation.org/support.cfm.

Please keep the Okediji in your thoughts and prayers.