Grégoire Ouédraogo

In Loving Memory of Mr. Grégoire Ouédraogo

February 23, 1940 – November 4, 2025

Grégoire Ouédraogo, age 85, passed away peacefully on November 4, 2025, in Rockingham, North Carolina.He leaves behind a legacy as profound as it was deeply felt. Born on February 23, 1940, in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, Grégoire carried throughout his life a deep pride in the culture of his native land, his family, and the history that shaped him.

The fourth of nine children born to Tenga Mathias and Tembila Bernadette, Grégoire’s early years were rich in heritage and tradition from Burkina Faso (formerly Upper Volta), West Africa. He met his beloved wife, Anita, in California, and they were married there on January 24, 1970. Their journey began in California, where both were students at San José State University, before moving to West Africa. They later returned to California in 1996 and eventually settled in Rockingham, North Carolina.

Grégoire was a devoted economist, spending many years as an independent research consultant for nonprofit organizations. He will be remembered for the sincerity of his intentions, the depth of his protective nature, and his unwavering sense of duty to those he loved. His strength, authenticity, cultural pride, and loyalty defined him. His life—like all lives—was both imperfect and deeply human, yet profoundly meaningful.

He is survived by his two brothers, Paul Ismael Ouédraogo and Emmanuel Ouédraogo; his five children and eight cherished grandchildren:

Tembila Christine Covington, mother of Shani Paige Nicholson;

Tamara Frances Cummings, married to Stephen Cummings, and their children, Sean Everett Cummings and Lauren Jade Cummings;

Rakèta Alyce Ouédraogo-Thomas, married to Brian Thomas, and their children, Elias Amir Thomas and Ethan Malik Thomas;

Binta Carleen Ouédraogo-Notaras, married to Vrettos Notaras, and their children, Damian Mayaki, Kewe Sanji-Rose, and Elise Juliette Notaras;

and Wendyam Mathias-Jack, married to Mckinzey Ouédraogo.
 

They will all miss him dearly, continue to learn from his example, and carry forward the values and heritage he held so dear.

Funeral Arrangements:

The family of Mr. Grégoire Ouédraogo announces his viewing and memorial service with heartfelt gratitude for the outpouring of love and support.

A private viewing for family and close friends will be held on Friday, November 14, 2025, at 12:00 PM (EST). The viewing will be available via live stream for his beloved family members in Burkina Faso, West Africa and around the world who are unable to attend.

A Celebration of Life and Memorial Service will take place on Saturday, December 20, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Exodus United Baptist Church in Winston-Salem, North Carolina.

Family, friends, and loved ones are invited to join in honoring the life, legacy, and enduring spirit of a cherished father, grandfather, uncle, brother, cousin, friend, and neighbor.

With Love and Peace

May his memory continue to bless all who knew him, and may the light of his life forever guide those he loved.

The Family of Mr. Grégoire and Mrs. Anita Ouédraogo

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