Rev. Akwasi Peprah was born on March 15, 1981, to the late Anthony Peprah and Mary Nyarko. He relocated to Columbus, Ohio, in 2003 to pursue his MBA. In 2011, he moved to California, where he married Lady Pastor Gloria in 2012. Together, they were blessed with two children, Michelle, aged 11, and William, aged 9. Rev. Peprah was appointed as a pastor in May 2016, leading the Antioch branch before being transferred to the Sacramento branch in 2019. In July 2022, he was ordained as a Reverend minister and returned to Oakland, where he served faithfully until his untimely passing.
On March 12, 2025, the American Missionary Church Oakland, lost a beloved leader, Rev Akwasi after a brief illness. The funeral services, which began on Friday, April 4, honored his life of service, sacrifice, and deep devotion to God and his community. Rev Akwasi was not just a pastor to his congregation but a true shepherd who led with humility, kindness, and a profound commitment to the teachings of Christ.
The memorial service was attended by six Bishops, including two episcopal sisters, along with fifty pastors from the American Missionary Church and three other denominations. It established an emotional atmosphere as friends, family, and church members gathered to share their memories and tributes. The words spoken reflected a pastor who was deeply engaged in the lives of his congregation. His humility, compassion, and unwavering dedication to others were qualities that shone brightly. Though his life was brief, it was described as one of profound impact, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.
The funeral service, solemnly officiated by Apostle Joel Obuobisa, Bishop Kodwo Lindsay, and Bishop Luke Frimpong Mensah, was held at the customary place of worship. The casket was escorted into the sanctuary by six Reverend ministers, where it was first presented for viewing by the immediate family and clergy, followed thereafter by other mourners and sympathizers. The service commenced with a heartfelt song ministration followed by heartfelt tributes from the family. LP Gloria, William and Michelle, and other close family members shared moving reflections on his life and their personal experiences with him. LP Gloria described him as a great husband, dad and a true role model. Despite his busy schedule, he always made his children a priority, finding time to take them on family trips and create lasting memories together. He was an incredibly optimistic person, always seeing the silver lining even in the toughest situations. His life was a testament to the fact that God can use anyone to do great things. Michelle and William admired him deeply, and to them, he was the fun, cool dad who always made them feel safe, loved, and cherished. He was the one who ensured everyone was okay, always putting others first. They will forever hold dear the wonderful moments and the unwavering love he gave them.
Apostle Joel delivered a sermon that encouraged everyone to recognize every moment and opportunity as a precious gift from God because death runs parallel with our lives and everyone can step into it at any time. He reminded the congregation that death is a part of our life’s journey. He likened life to a game of musical chairs and urged us to not get carried away by the issues of life so that when the music of our lives stop playing, we will find a seat. In line with the biblical passage from Isaiah 43:4, Apostle reminded everyone of the preciousness of human life and the importance of living each moment in alignment with God’s will. He said God gives us people for a season and we have a window to maximize what they bring into our lives.
After the sermon, a symbolic ceremony took place where Rev’s cross, collar, and Bible were handed over by LP Gloria, to the Convener of the AMC Bishop Luke Frimpong Mensah. These items represented the life of sacrifice, the calling he received, and the message he preached. The cross signified the daily sacrifice of his pastoral role, the collar represented his divine separation and dedication, and the Bible was a reminder of the word he faithfully delivered.
Rev was laid to rest in the Bay Area where a final farewell was shared by all in attendance. The funeral service concluded with a reception in Pleasanton, offering an opportunity for mourners to gather in fellowship.
The events culminated with a beautifully attended thanksgiving service that celebrated the life and legacy of a man who had served faithfully and left a profound impact on the lives of all who knew him.
Rev Akwasi may have been called home too soon, but his life was one of purpose, devotion, and unwavering faith. His legacy as a shepherd, a husband, a father, and a servant of God will continue to inspire those who remain to walk in faith, live with humility, and cherish the moments we are given.
