Ghennet Teclemariam

Ghennet Telemariam, 55, of Columbia, Missouri, passed away peacefully at her home on Sunday, March 29, 2026. She was born on December 29, 1970, in Adengefom, Eritrea, to her loving parents, Sebhatu Telemariam and Ginja Mengisha.

Ghennet was united in marriage to Zeru Mengisteab on August 29, 1993, and he preceded her in death. She was also preceded in death by her parents and her beloved sister, Azamit.

A devoted mother and compassionate woman, Ghennet dedicated much of her life to caring for others. She worked as a preschool teacher in Eritrea and a caregiver and housekeeper in Columbia. She also had an entrepreneurial spirit and took pride in her work and independence. Outside of her career, she was charitable to those less fortunate and welcomed everyone in her life with open arms.

Ghennet found joy in life's simple but meaningful moments. She loved cooking and eating dinner with her kids, going on walks, and drinking coffee, especially when it meant gathering with friends, sharing stories, and creating lasting memories together. Her cooking, particularly her injera, will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

She was a faithful and devoted member of Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church. Ghennet loved attending church, especially on Tuesdays, participating in prayer groups, and living out her faith daily as a true believer in Christ. She had a special love for St. Anthony, and she found peace in praying the rosary and singing psalms. Her faith was a guiding light in her life.

Above all, Ghennet cherished her family. She found great joy in seeing her children succeed in academics and did everything she could to support them. As they grew before her, she treasured every moment spent with them. Her family was truly the center of her world and the greatest source of her happiness.

She is lovingly remembered by her children, Segen Zeru Mengisteab, Senay Zeru Mengesteab, Thomas Zeru Mengesteab, Meheret Zeru Mengesteab, and Robel Zeru Mengesteab, all of Columbia, Missouri. She is also survived by her siblings, Yoseph, Kudson, Gemma, Eyasu, Tsegai, Freweini, and Simon, along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Ghennet's honor to the Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance.

Family and friends are invited to share words of comfort and support at the visitation on Thursday, April 9, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church. Services honoring and celebrating Ghennet's life will follow at the church. Committal prayers and burial will take place at Columbia Cemetery.