COLUMBUS AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. -- Members of the 14th Flying Training Wing packed the Base Chapel July 27 to mourn Maj. Stephen Osakue Jr., 14th Medical Support Squadron Pharmacy Flight commander.
Osakue was born in Miami but also lived in Georgia. He was a son, brother, husband, father and friend. He was also a graduate of the University of Georgia and Mercer University.
Osakue was known on base as an incredible athlete and a fun loving person. He was a proud UGA fan, Lakers Fan, and the ultimate competitor. The Air Force lost a great person who served his country proudly and he will truly be missed. He is survived by his wife, Rosario Carrillo; son, Jordan; and daughter, Gabrielle.
“He was one of the few leaders in my Air Force career who followed through to actually do something positive to help a struggling Airman,” said Tech. Sgt. Theresa Booth, 14th MDOS pharmacy technician. “I will never forget what he did for me … I will never forget him.”
Osakue was admired by each speaker at the memorial, each individual noting his friendly nature, and incredible leadership making work as fun as it was fulfilling.
“Many of us here are trapped in darkness, trapped in sadness, trapped in pain and trapped in confusion,” said Chaplain (Lt. Col.) Steven Richardson, 14th Flying Training Wing chaplain. “Each one of us was touched by Stephen (Osakue) and by his family. We all know Stephen was amazing and I don’t have an answer to why a man like this was taken from us, but as your chaplain I want you to remind you the light is still there.”
Richardson ended the memorial with a prayer and a helping hand, reminding Team BLAZE anyone can reach out to the chapel, mental health, or any helping agencies to help better their situation.
As people left the ceremony, family and friends signed their names in a guest book, honoring Stephen Osakue and the positive impact he had on Team BLAZE.
Claims against estate:
Maj. Stephen Osakue died on June 14, 2019. Anyone having claims against or indebtedness to the estate of Osakue should contact 2nd Lt. Brandon Solomon, Summary Court Officer, at (662) 434-1252 or email: brandon.h.solomon.mil@mail.mil, Any claims and/or supporting documents may be sent to Solomon at: 14th Medical Support Squadron, 201 Independence Drive, Columbus AFB, MS 39705.