Dr. Usukumah Eyo Usukumah

Dr. Usukumah was born on July 29, 1954 in Calabar Nigeria, to Chief Eyo Udoh Usukumah and Madam Grace Okponkpong. He was a child prodigy with superior intelligence. His gift of intellect, his persevering spirit, and his keen desire to be a physician allowed him to overcome adversities that befell many of his peers. It ushered him in as a summa cum laude graduate of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. Dr. Usukumah later became an esteemed fellow of The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Additionally, he was a member of the Royal College of Surgeons. His knowledge of obstetrics and gynecology was unrivaled, and he used those skills and knowledge to impact and influence the lives of his patients, colleagues, and medical students. His impact spanned around the globe, where he practiced medicine in three continents, West Africa, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America. Dr. Usukumah made history for SUNY DownState Medical Center when he crowned the university with their first triplet birth through fertility medicine. His love for medicine and people is manifested in the number of pro bono surgeries and medical care that he rendered to those who were financially destitute. He frequently returned to Africa to give of his time, talents, and treasures in operating on women who would have otherwise gone without care. He was kind and caring to all he met, but he was exceptionally kind and caring to those in need. His patients and staff loved him. Everyone loved the doctor.

It would be impossible to separate his fervency for medicine from the fervor of his faith. Dr. Usukumah was a dedicated Christian, an ardent preacher, respected Sunday school teacher, and unyielding intercessor. Those intimately acquainted with Doc or Dr. Silas, as he is lovingly called, know his triangular route. The doctor was either at work, in church, or home. He was committed to his faith and winning souls for the Kingdom. Many times, his unrelenting prayer life found him locked into the sanctuary alone, interceding for his fellow men, friends, and family. He was a “True Soldier in the Army of The Lord.” A soldier whom the Lord has now given rest.

His colleagues claimed that he was such a great man that his father named him twice. Indeed, Dr. Usukumah Usukumah was a great man and a wonderful father. He is survived by his son Henry Emmanuel Usukumah, daughter Pamela Bassey Usukumah, son Matthew Ime Usukumah and adopted son Joshua David Phillips. Dr. Usukumah was a loving father who cared deeply for the peace of his children and their provision, protection, and prosperity. He leaves an indelible mark in the lives he touched and an inexhaustible legacy that will never die.