Dr. Jude Echeazu Igbokwe

Dr. Jude Echeazu Igbokwe, 71, passed away on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, in Des Moines, Iowa, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on October 3, 1954, to Chief (Sir) Boniface and Lady Roseline Adanwanyanwu Igbokwe in Amuzi, Ahiazu Local Government Area of Imo State, Nigeria, Jude lived a life marked by strength, resilience, compassion, and an unwavering dedication to his family and community.

Education was central to Jude’s life. In the 1970s, he courageously traveled to the United States to pursue higher education, earning his bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin–Green Bay. He went on to obtain both his master’s and doctorate degrees from Iowa State University. His passion for learning evolved into a lifelong career in education, where he inspired, taught, and mentored students at several colleges.

In addition to his work in Education, Jude was a valued member of the Des Moines community. He served at the Iowa Department of Public Health, worked at the Iowa State Capitol, and later became Director of Iowa Workforce Development, where he made a lasting impact before his retirement.

Above all, Jude cherished his family. In 1984, he married the love of his life, Veronica Igbokwe, in Imo State, Nigeria. Together, they built a beautiful life, beginning in Ames, Iowa, where they welcomed their daughters, Chika and Ngozi. After relocating to Des Moines, their family grew with the addition of their sons, Chima and Nnamdi. In 2023, he joyfully embraced a new title—grandfather—to Ellyana and Jamari.

Jude deeply valued his connection to the Nigerian community in Des Moines, where he formed lifelong friendships. He also remained closely tied to his roots, frequently traveling to Nigeria to connect with family (immediate and extended) and give back to his hometown, including contributing to improvements in local educational facilities.

Known for his generosity, wisdom, and willingness to help others, Jude was honored with the prestigious title of High Chief Ugwumba I of Amuzi Autonomous Community in 2018.

Through all his accomplishments and recognitions, Jude’s greatest legacy is the countless lives he touched through his kindness. His presence was a constant source of guidance, support, and love, and he will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Mrs. Veronica Igbokwe; his children, Mrs. Chika (Jacob) Igbokwe-Yates, Dr. Ngozi Igbokwe, Mr. Chima Igbokwe, and Mr. Nnamdi Igbokwe; his cherished grandchildren, Ellyana Yates and Jamari Yates; his siblings and in-laws, Lady Caroline (Sir Emeka) Nwachukwu; Lady Euna (Prof. Aloysius) Ohaegbu; Mrs. Monique (Okenze Felix) Amadi; Ms. Juliet Igbokwe; and Sir Jerome Kekeh; as well as many nieces and nephews.

Jude was preceded in death by his parents, Chief (Sir) Boniface and Lady Roseline Adanwanyanwu Igbokwe; his siblings, Lady Teresa Adaure (Chief Dennis) Aguwa, Miss Bertha Ulumma Igbokwe, Mrs. Anthonia Ukachi Kekeh, Chief (Sir) Martinianus Chijioke (Lady Christiana) Igbokwe, Ezinne Justina Uchechi (Mr. Nchekube Bede) Onyeulor, and Mr. Boniface Enyinna Igbokwe.

May his loving & gentle soul rest in perfect peace and rise with the Lord.

Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com

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