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John Omoruyi Agbonghae, 71 of Kennesaw, Georgia passed away on Monday, October 13, 2025 at Wellstar Kennestone Hospital surrounded by his loving family. A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, October 18, 2025 at 11:00 A.M. at Mt. Zion A.M.E. Church, 4163 Wade Green Road, Kennesaw, Georgia 30144. Please keep his family in your thoughts and prayers as they go through this time of bereavement. In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made to the American Cancer Association in his honor.This service will be LIVE-STREAMED.
With hearts full of love, gratitude, and joy, we celebrate the extraordinary life of Dr. John Omoruyi Agbonghae, who was born on September 17, 1954, to the late Mary Agbonghae (née Ovienserie-Egharevba) and David Omoruyi Agbonghae in Uhi, Uhunwonde Local Government, Edo State, Nigeria. On Monday, October 13, 2025, John answered his final call and returned home to the Lord, surrounded by family and close friends at Kennestone Medical Center in Marietta, Georgia.
John lived a life filled with faith, family, laughter, and purpose. A proud son of Africa, he carried his heritage with dignity and joy, always eager to share the richness of his culture with others. Whether through his vibrant traditional attire, his rhythmic dance down the church aisles, or the warmth of his hospitality, John embodied the spirit of unity, pride, and celebration.
A devoted member of Mt. Zion AME Church, John served faithfully in many roles until his health declined. But, he listened to the services online. His joyful presence could always be felt—his laughter echoing through the sanctuary, his energy lighting up every service. Dressed in his colorful African garments, John danced with gratitude and reverence as he made his way to the collection plate, giving not just his offering, but his heart. His deep faith guided every step of his journey, and his life was a living testimony of God’s grace and goodness.
Education was one of John’s greatest passions. He firmly believed that knowledge was the key to unlocking one’s destiny. He began his academic journey at St. Francis Primary School and Ethiope Trade School in Sapele, Delta State, Nigeria, then earned his associate’s degree from Uromi Technical College. His pursuit of excellence led him to the United States, where he achieved his bachelor’s degree from Weber State University, followed by a Master’s and Doctorate in Automotive Sales and International Business.
Guided by ambition, integrity, and a love for service, John founded Safe Ride Automotive, a business built on trust, skill, and genuine care for people. His work ethic and kindness touched everyone who walked through his doors, and his success stood as a testament to his determination and vision.
On October 6, 1988, John married the love of his life, Ms. Karen D. Glover. Their marriage was a beautiful partnership grounded in faith, laughter, and unwavering love. Together, they raised a family that brought immense joy and pride to John’s life.
He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife Karen and his beloved children: Gabriel Mann (Courtney), Miles Grant (Veronica), Osayi Agbonghae (Leroy), and Eghosa Agbonghae (Christina). He is also lovingly remembered by his grandchildren Erin, Harrison, Sutton, Mya, and Eze, with one grandchild on the way, and one step-grandchild, Dominique. He is further survived by his sisters Maria and Grace, along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, church family, and friends who will carry his light forward.
John was preceded in death by his parents; his niece Vivienne Obomoh and her husband Basil Obomoh; his aunt-in-law Jessie C. Green; and his father-in-law Robert Louis Glover.
To know John was to know joy. His laughter filled every space, his stories inspired, and his kindness uplifted. He was a man who loved deeply — his family, his faith, his culture, his cars, his pets, and his Atlanta Falcons. Sundays were his sacred time: a day of worship, family, music, and football — all from his favorite La-Z-Boy chair.
Though his earthly journey has ended, John’s vibrant spirit continues to shine brightly. His legacy of love, faith, and perseverance will live on in the countless lives he touched. He reminded us all to celebrate life with gratitude, to serve others with joy, and to never stop dancing to the rhythm of God’s blessings.
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”
— 2 Timothy 4:7
Condolences may be expressed at: www.mackeppingerfuneralhome.com
Mack Eppinger and Sons Funeral Service, Inc. are in charge of the arrangements.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of JOHN OMORUYI AGBONGHAE, please visit our floral store.