The son of Seth Ablordeppey, PhD, and Joy Ablordeppey, MD, Edem was born in Accra, Ghana on January 10, 1983. An intelligent and driven man, Edem graduated with a PharmD from Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU) College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences. He was employed as a Rutgers University Pharmaceutical Industry Fellow on the US Oncology Brand Access Strategy for the Whippany, New Jersey branch of Bayer Pharmaceuticals.
A talented vocalist, Edem began singing at school at the age of six with a rendition of Lift Every Voice and Sing, with no formal training and to the surprise of his parents. Edem enjoyed singing on the Praise Team at First Baptist Church of Tallahassee, Florida for many years. As point and shooting guard, he passionately played for First Baptist Church basketball league, coached FSU Women’s Basketball scout team, and volunteered with Upward Sports, a non-profit organization with the mission of promoting the discovery of Jesus through sports. He was a member of Kappa Psi Pharmaceutical Fraternity, Incorporated, Delta Iota Chapter and Phi Lambda Sigma Pharmacy Leadership Society, Beta Sigma Chapter at FAMU. Among his many volunteer contributions, Edem held the position of Marketing and Advertising Supervisor for Hope International Medical Mission; a non-profit charity organization developed by his parents. One of their clinics established in Ghana will soon be renamed in his memory.
“Edem was a graceful leader among leaders and a clinician who pushed for the better in all aspects of healthcare, but especially access to therapies for sickle cell patients. Edem left an indelible impression on everyone who heard him speak at the GBT-supported Access-to-Care Summit in 2019, where he was so gracious in sharing his own story and his passion for advocacy. He set the bar high for himself and by extension, everyone around him.” —Global Blood Therapeutics.
He is survived by his loving wife of fourteen years, Dr. Andrea Ablordeppey; his children Elyse (14), Josiah (14), Justyce (12), and Jordyn (6); siblings Enyo, Sroda, Kafui, Suboe, and Aseye; nieces Jacqueline, Chana, and Naomi; nephews Emmanuel, Jeremiah, and Noah; along with many extended family and friends.
Edem’s palpable affection for his family was unquestionable. A devoted father, it is fair to say that Edem lived for his children. From family time spent competing in Jeopardy, to writing silly songs, to sports and made-up games and jokes, his home was filled with joy and laughter. A devoted husband, he was unapologetically protective of his ‘Ndrea, the love of his life; Bicken, Bick, or Bicky; as they affectionately referred to one another. Both incredible vocalists, the music they created together blessed the hearts of everyone who heard them. The second born in a family of six children, and the oldest son, Edem was a leader and an outspoken follower of Christ. He enthusiastically followed the great commission, making disciples of all men; defending and supporting his friends and loved ones; praying with his peers, serving the poor, and offering a smile, a hug, and an encouraging word to anyone in need.
Viewing is set for April 30th at 4:00 to 6:00 pm at Culley’s MeadowWood Memorial Park: 700 Timberlane Road, Tallahassee, FL 32312. Funeral services will be held at First Baptist Church of Tallahassee, 108 West College Avenue, FL 32301 on May 1, 2021 at 2pm with interment following at Culley’s MeadowWood Memorial Park: 700 Timberlane Road, Tallahassee, FL 32312.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Sickle Cell Disease Association of America, Pancreatic Cancer Awareness, Hope International Medical Mission (himmghana.org), and a trust in the name of Edem’s children. For information on the trust fund, please contact Culley's Funeral Home (850) 877-8191 or email [email protected].
“Now unto Him that is able to do exceeding, abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, unto Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.” Ephesians 3:20-21
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