Babatunde Olokunbola

Babatunde Olokunbola was born on March 4, 1949, in Owo, Ondo State, Nigeria. He passed away on March 6, 2026, in Dallas, Texas. 

Babatunde graduated from Government College, Ibadan, in 1966. He enjoyed a career in mechanical engineering, working for various companies, such as Metal Box, Phillip Morris, Cadbury, Reckitt & Coleman, and Eleganza. A highly skilled mechanical engineer, he earned his Master’s degree from Friendship University in Moscow, Russia, equipping him with the expertise that would shape a remarkable career in industrial engineering. He further broadened his technical knowledge through specialized training in Japan, bringing global experience and innovation to the industries he served.

Babatunde played a significant role in Nigeria’s industrial development as a member of the team that established the country’s first glass manufacturing plant, an achievement that stands as a testament to his engineering competence and pioneering spirit. Throughout his career, he became known for his exceptional problem-solving ability. At Cadbury, he successfully helped resolve a long-standing machine fault within the plant that had defied previous attempts at repair. While working with Reckitt & Coleman, he addressed a persistent production challenge involving the effective mixing of their toilet cleaner product by designing and fabricating a specialized tool that simplified and improved the process. His expertise was also instrumental at Rockwool, where he contributed to restoring and reviving a factory that had been abandoned for years, demonstrating both technical ingenuity and leadership. In 1999, after many years of demonstrating a superior work ethic through consistency and dedication, he retired. 

Beyond his professional achievements, he was a devoted Christian whose faith guided his values and relationships. Married since December 16, 1978, to the love of his life, Rachel Ayoola Olokunbola, he built a strong and loving family, raising four children who all went on to graduate from college and establish families of their own. His legacy extends far beyond his career accomplishments: he is widely known for his generosity, wisdom, and willingness to mentor and support young people. Many benefited from his guidance, encouragement, and example of integrity.

Affectionately known as "Bros Tuns", "Chief Chief", "Brother Chief", and "Aji", Babatunde accepted Christ as his Lord. He attended One Community Church, and he was a participant in the Full Gospel Business Men’s Fellowship. Aside from his familial and religious involvement, Babatunde was also engaged in his community, serving on the Agbara Estate Security Committee. Among many hobbies, he delighted in walking, reading, and soccer. He will be remembered for his prayerful, compassionate, jovial, and supportive nature. His caring spirit will be missed by all who knew and loved him. 

Through his contributions to industry, commitment to faith, dedication to family, and service to others, he leaves a lasting legacy of excellence, resilience, and generosity.

Babatunde was preceded in death by his father, Ven. Joshua Monday Olokunbola; mother, Victoria Bamidele Olokunbola; father-in-law, Jacob Adenugba Banjoko; and mother-in-law, Felicia Olufunmike Banjoko. 

Those left to cherish lasting memories include his wife of 47 years, Rachel Ayoola Olokunbola; his children and their spouses, Ibukun  & Nike Olokunbola, Oluwaseun & Taiwo Olokunbola, Olubukunola & Precious Oshideko, and Oreofe & Osita Ezechi; his grandchildren, Chinonso Osita-Ezechi, Oluwapeyibomi Olokunbola, Precious Oshideko, Jewel Oshideko, Adaeze Osita-Ezechi, Ireoluwa Olokunbola, Inioluwa Olokunbola, Adeife Osita-Ezechi, Igbatoluwawi Olokunbola, and Olatorera Oshideko; his siblings, Tope Olokunbola, Gboyega Olokunbola; his siblings-in-law; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. 

All are welcome to join us via live stream on this memorial page at

11:00 AM on FRIDAY, MARCH 20, 2026,

as we celebrate the life of our beloved Babatunde. Click the link below:

Celebration of Life for Babatunde Olokunbola

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