Stephen Kofi Osei

Stephen Kofi Osei of Smyrna, Tennessee, passed away on Sunday, August 30, 2026, at the age of 67.

Born on August 14, 1959, in Obuasi, Ghana, to Kofi Oppong and Akosua Tawiah, Stephen built a life defined by hard work, deep faith, and an unwavering commitment to those he loved. He lived in Virginia, where he worked at Ted’s Montana Grill and The Four Seasons Hotel, and built a vibrant community of lifelong friends. He recently moved to Smyrna, Tennessee, to get closer to his daughter, Setina, and her family, and to take care of his health.

Stephen was a man of quiet strength, sharp wit, and varying interests. Whether he was reading his Bible, listening to the news, singing gospel songs, or cooking, he approached everything he did with meticulous care and a steady hand. One activity he particularly enjoyed was talking with Setina daily. It was in these times that he offered a warm smile and a listening ear.

He is survived by his wife, Gladys Kwoffi; his daughters, Setina Yaafi (Richard) of Smyrna, Sandra Osei of Ghana, and Joyce Osei of Ghana; sons, Raymond Osei of Gahana, Benjamin (Linda) Osei of Ghana, and Elisha Osei, along with Elisha’s mother Ataa Essu, both of Fairfax, Virginia; adopted children, Vivian Eastman, Mary Eastman, Emmanuel Ampem, and Nathan Ampem; twin sisters, Martha (Norman) Bailie of Downpatrick, Ireland and Mary Kyei of Ghana, sisters, Sarah Oppong, Grace Kyei, Mercy Kyei, Abenaa Senti, Foutina Kyei, Comfort Kyei, and brother Yaw Sekyere, all living in Ghana; his cherished grandchildren, Othniel, Ava, Reece, Keziah, Kurtis, Jirah-Ray, Gorden, and Emmanuel, as well as his adopted grandchildren, Kendra Amfo, Ezekiel paddy Ayertey, Amanirenas Ayertey, and Titus Paddy Ayertey; twenty-five nieces and nephews, and a large circle of extended family and dear friends both locally and abroad. He was preceded in death by his parents, Kofi Oppong and Akosua Tawiah.

Stephen loved his family greatly, and his main driving force was caring for his children, both biological and adopted.

Visitation with the family will be at Woodfin Memorial Chapel, Smyrna on Friday, September 11, 2026, from 10:00 am until the time of funeral services beginning at 12:00 pm. Burial will follow in Mapleview Cemetery, with family and friends serving as pallbearers.

An online guestbook is available for the family at www.woodfinchapel.com.