Kolade Alabi

Kolade Alabi
February 9, 1952 - November 2, 2024

Dr. Kolade "Kola" Alabi (72), of Lincoln, Nebraska, beloved servant of God and tireless champion of second chances, passed away peacefully on November 2, 2024. A man who transformed countless lives with his boundless compassion and unwavering faith, he made every stranger feel like family and every burden feel lighter through his infectious laughter and gentle spirit.

Born in Ayetoro Ekiti Nigeria, to father Josiah and mother Rachel, Kolade carried his parents' legacy of faith and service throughout his life. After studying at Adventist College of West Africa, he journeyed to the United States where he earned a bachelor's degree in chemistry and computer science, followed by a PhD in soil science and agronomy from the University of Nebraska at Lincoln in 1983. He then dedicated over three decades to his work as a chemist at what later became Novartis. True to his nature, even in retirement he continued serving others, teaching English to recent immigrants – giving back to those seeking the same opportunities that had brought him to America years before.

Bringing both his analytical mind and spiritual heart to his community service, Kolade solved problems far beyond the laboratory and classroom. Every day, he lived his faith through action. Having once been a newcomer to America himself, he became a bridge builder for immigrants chasing their own American dreams. His home and heart were always open, and his ability to befriend strangers was legendary. Those who knew him often remarked that five minutes with him could leave you feeling like you'd known him all your life.

Kolade served as an elder at Allon Chapel Seventh-day Adventist Church. Known affectionately as "Brother Al", he found his greatest joy in lifting others up. Rain or shine, he could be found leading prison ministry services, where his non-judgmental presence and steadfast support helped countless inmates reconnect with their faith and rebuild their lives. He remained a constant friend and mentor to many as they reintegrated into society, proving that everyone deserves an advocate who believes in their potential. He also led numerous community outreach initiatives in partnership with his church, with the Good Neighbor Community Center, and with other impactful community organizations in Lincoln.

Although he never sought the spotlight, Kolade's impact still drew notice. The Lincoln Journal Star counted him among their Heartland Heroes, and he joined the ranks of Congressman John Lewis and Chaplain Barry Black as a recipient of the Living Legend Award for Service to Humanity – honors that, characteristic of his humility, he viewed simply as opportunities to inspire others to serve and merely footnoted what neighbors and friends already knew: his life was a masterclass in servant leadership.

Above all else, Kolade was a devoted family man who found his greatest pride in caring for his beloved wife, Abike, and raising three successful children - Oluwatoyin, Olabode, and Olamide. His love for family extended to his siblings: Christianah, Samuel, Joseph, Florence, Folorunso, Adetiloro, Tomileye, and Festus, as well as their spouses, children, and grandchildren. His legacy of service and compassion lives on through each generation of his family.

In every role – whether as a chemist, elder, mentor, friend, brother, father, or husband – Kolade brought his trademark combination of wisdom, humor, and grace. He taught us that true success lies not in personal achievement, but in helping others achieve their dreams. Kolade's light continues to shine through the countless lives he touched over the years and the communities he helped to build – his reach cannot be quantified.

A celebration of Dr. Kolade Alabi's life will be held Friday, November 22, 2024, at College View Church (4801 Prescott Ave, Lincoln, NE 68506). Rather than flowers, the family invites you to honor his memory in a way he would have cherished most: by showing kindness to a stranger and nurturing the human connections he so deeply valued.

The family welcomes visitors for viewing at 10:00 AM, with services beginning at 11:00 AM.