Yeabsira Bireda Tigistu

The world lost a shining star on November 14, 2020. Yeabsira Tigistu, like the Amharic meaning of his name was truly God’s handiwork. He was born in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on December 27, 1994. He and his family came to the United States when he was very young. An incredibly gifted and intelligent young man, Yeabsira excelled--graduating top of his class at Pioneer High School in 2012, then graduating early from the prestigious Ivy League Columbia University in 2016. Yeabsira’s kindness and generosity of spirit was encompassing, and his smile lights up a room. In his presence there was always laughter, great conversation and a lot of energy. He was a go-getter, head and shoulders above his peers, yet he had a genuinely humble spirit that was precious and unique. Yeabsira was a role-model and a man of integrity, a devout Christian who honored his parents, brother, family and community. Yeabsira was the dream son of every parent. His intelligence and work ethic exemplary. Beyond high school and college, Yeabsira was a rising star in the corporate world. His colleagues describe him as the mentor and encourager that he was, always willing to help. He was an economist by training, but everyone who has met Yeabsira will testify that he was an expert in pretty much every subject. An avid reader, he had an encyclopedic mind.

Yeabsira is survived by his parents Elsabet Robi and Tigistu Gebre, and his younger brother, Samuel. As a transformational leader and young man, he also leaves behind numerous friends and co-workers, both young and old, who loved him and were forever touched by him.

Yeabsira’s family wishes to thank the overwhelming outpouring of generosity, kind words, visits and love from the numerous people who have rallied around them and supported them with their generosity, kind words, visits and love during this painful and difficult time. They cling to God and his eternal Word and pray that you might also find comfort. “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10”