Zewditu Woldedawit

Zewditu “Zee” Woldedawit, whose radiant spirit, unwavering faith, and boundless love shaped the lives of family, friends, and countless children she cared for, passed away peacefully in her Oklahoma City home on December 15, 2025. She was 62.

Born on April 30, 1963, in Aleta Wendo in Ethiopia’s Southern Region, Zewditu was the daughter of Alemu Woldedawit of Bulega and Ayalech Bizuneh Woldedawit of the Hawassa region. From childhood, she carried a poetic, gentle nature — a quiet glow that made people feel seen, safe, and cherished.

As a teenager, she moved to Addis Ababa to pursue her education and live with her older sister, Abonesh. Those years became some of her most treasured memories. She lovingly babysat her nieces and nephews, forming bonds filled with laughter, storytelling, and affection. Decades later, she would reunite with them as adults in the United States — a full circle blessing she held close to her heart.

She later made her home in Addis Ababa’s Arat Kilo district, where she became known for her warmth, her social grace, and her natural leadership. She earned a certification in business education with a focus on bookkeeping and carried that skill into a professional life marked by dedication and excellence.

In 1997, Zewditu embarked on a new chapter, moving to Oklahoma City to join her sister and build a life with her husband and their son, Eyuel. Together, they pursued the American dream. Though their marriage later ended amicably after more than 15 years, their friendship endured. They exchanged daily prayers and blessings, a testament to the deep respect that remained between them.

A devoted Christian, Zewditu’s faith was the anchor of her life. She loved mezmur — Ethiopian gospel music — especially the voices of Pastor Daniel Amdemichael and Dagmawi (Dagi) Tilahun. Her favorite color was gold, a fitting reflection of her luminous personality. She expressed beauty in everything she touched: her clothing, her home décor, her garden, and her unforgettable coffee ceremonies, which were less a ritual than an act of love.

Children were drawn to her. She had a rare, playful gentleness that made little ones feel instantly at home. Babysitting was not a task but a joy — a way to pour love into the world. That joy blossomed when she became a grandmother. Her granddaughter, Elsie Grace, became the center of her universe, and their time together filled her final years with purpose and delight.

For 18 years, Zewditu fought multiple bouts of cancer with extraordinary courage. Her life embodied the words of 2 Timothy 4:7: “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” This verse mirrors her journey — her strength, her devotion to God, and the grace with which she faced every challenge. Her story is not one of suffering, but of victory in faith.

Her character also reflected the spirit of Proverbs 31:25:

“She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future.”

Zewditu lived with dignity, beauty, and a joyful spirit. She uplifted others with her positivity, her elegance, and her golden touch, even in the most difficult seasons of life.

In 2022, she spent cherished time in Muskogee, Oklahoma, surrounded by devoted care. She later returned to Oklahoma City, regaining her independence and savoring her days with her granddaughter, her church community, and her circle of close friends.

Her life was enriched by the steadfast friendship of Mr. Teshome Geremew, and by the sisterhood she shared with Mrs. Almeye and Mrs. Turaye. In her final years, she was lovingly supported by her “adopted daughters,” Mrs. Nithsuand Mrs. Sabla, and her daughter-in-law Evita whose devotion brought comfort and peace in the last chapter of her great story with frequently visits and enrichment of her days with precious memories.

She is survived by her son, Eyu Terefe, and her granddaughter, Elsie Grace Terefe; her older sister, Ms. Abonesh Gebremariam of Fontana, California; her sister Taitu Woldedawit of Addis Ababa; her nieces Dr. Selamawit Negusse and Dr. Hewette Carlson; and her nephew Dr. Johnny Negusse.

She was preceded in death by her younger brother, Ephraim Woldedawit, a proud soldier.

Zewditu “Zee” Woldedawit will be remembered as a beacon of kindness, a champion for others, and a woman whose positivity endured through every season. Her legacy lives on in the hearts she touched, the prayers she offered, and the light she leaves behind.

Forever cherished. Forever loved. Forever our Zee.

A funeral service will be held at Hahn-Cook/Street & Draper, located at 6600 Broadway Extension, Oklahoma City, OK 73116, on December 27, 2025, starting at 11:00 am.

The committal service will follow at Rose Hill Burial Park, located at 6001 NW Grand Blvd, Oklahoma City, OK 73118, on the same day at 12:15 pm.