About

Nicole Garofolo, Site Creator

My name is Nicole (“Nikki”) Garofolo and I only knew Funmi for ten wonderful years. In that time, he became my brother and an integral part of my family. He has a permanent place in my heart.

To anyone who knew Funmi, he kept a lot of his personal life close to the vest. When you were with him, it was like no one else in the world existed. He would ask about your other friends, your family, and what you’ve been up to but he seldom would talk about himself. It wasn’t until the cancer came back that I got the chance to ask about and meet his wonderful parents and brothers.

Every family member and friend I’ve met has introduced me to new sides of him. That is why I made this website; I know I am not the only one who wants to know more.

I also think it is important to realize that we are not alone in our grief. There is an entire world of love surrounding Funmi and it’s important to share that with as many people as we can.

A Brief History of Funmi

Oluwafunmilayo “Funmi” Adeogo Fehintoluwa Afelumo was born on March 10, 1987 in Lagos, Nigeria. He graduated from the University of Central Arkansas in 2008 with a degree in Accountancy then went back to school to SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry in Syracuse, graduating in 2015 with a master’s degree in Plant Science and Biotechnology. He worked as a toxicologist at Toxicology Consultants and Assessments Specialist LLC and was in the process of obtaining his green card with the goal of becoming an American citizen at the time of his passing.

Funmi was full of life, love, passion, empathy, and a desire for adventure – traits he blessed his coworkers, friends, and families with daily. He loved expanding his mind and knowledge through books and interactions with those around him. Some of his passions were writing, plant life, the environment (sea turtles in particular), getaways with friends and family, and serving as a deacon at Plymouth Congregational Church. He was a very hardworking, driven, and committed person who still found time to be empathetic and connect with everyone around him in a remarkably special and genuine way that only he knew how to do.

Funmi was 33 years old when he died peacefully on Thursday, April 16, 2020, surrounded by the love and support of his family and friends. He passed at his home in Syracuse after a courageous and inspirational battle with cancer.

Funmi is survived by his parents Fatima and Folarin, his brothers Femi and Foluso, and his niece and nephews whom he loved very much.