Psalm 34:18: “The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
It is with profound sadness that the Subah, Moore, and Freeman families share the news of Ismael Pewu McGill, Sr.’s passing, a remarkable individual whose legacy of kindness and strength will endure through time.
Ismael Pewu McGill, Sr., born on October 12, 1958, in Zorzor, Lofa County, Liberia, peacefully passed away on Friday, August 11, 2023. He was born to the union of Mr. Koinga Vewu McGill and Ms. Suwah Marluo. Ismael’s early years were spent in Zorzor, Lofa County, Liberia, where he completed his primary and secondary education. His journey led him from his hometown to a life of dedication and compassion in the medical field.
Education played a pivotal role in his life. He attended the St. Matthew Lutheran Mission School for his early childhood education and completed his primary schooling in the 1970s. He continued his studies at Zorzor Central High School and then pursued his senior high school education at World Wide Mission High School, culminating in his senior secondary school certificate. With a passion for healthcare, Ismael enrolled at TNIMA Medical School, graduating in 1989 with a degree as a Physician Assistant.
Ismael’s career was a testament to his commitment to serving others. After the onset of the Liberian civil war, he joined the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) in 1995. He dedicated over a decade of service to the UNHCR, working as a Clinical Officer. During this time, he provided medical care to those in need, including his role at St. Gregory Hospital in Buduburam Refugee Camp, Ghana.
In 2012, Ismael continued his journey at Sanford International Clinic until 2018, where he served as a dedicated Physician Assistant-In-Charge. He then moved on to Global Star International Clinic, contributing his expertise as a Senior Physician Assistant. Ismael’s passion for healthcare led him to CHIP International, Liberia, where he served as a Senior Physician Assistant until his passing.
Outside of his professional life, Ismael cherished his family deeply. In 1978, he began a relationship with his childhood friend Ms. Mama Lorpu Forkpa, and their union was blessed with two children, Mone McGill and Prince Flomo McGill, who currently reside in Accra, Ghana. Following the separation from his first partner in 1995, Ismael found love again, marrying Ms. Ellen Freeman in 1997. The couple was blessed with three children: Patience McGill Peters, Ishmael Pewu “Champ” McGill, Jr. and Vewu McGill, who are currently based in Canada and the United States.
Despite the geographical distances that life sometimes imposed, Ismael maintained strong connections with his loved ones. His dedication as a father, husband, uncle, brother, and friend was a source of inspiration to everyone fortunate enough to know him. Ismael leaves behind a legacy of compassion, dedication, and unwavering love.
Ismael was predeceased by his parents: Mr. Koinga Vewu McGill and Ms. Suwah Marluo; and Mr. Yanquoi Subah, his father.
Ismael leaves to mourn his loss the following persons: his children – Prince Flomo, Mone, Patience, Ishmael Pewu “Champ”, and Vewu; his mothers, Lusu Subah & Korto Mama; his sibling: Korpo; and his cousin – Deddeh Mulbah.
He is survived by his children, grandchildren, siblings, cousins, aunts, uncles, and a multitude of friends and loved ones. His memory will forever be cherished, and his impact on the lives he touched will continue to shine brightly.
May his soul rest in perfect peace.
Donations: Donations can be sent to: CashApp: $LeeFreemanjr
Zelle: Lee Freeman, 214-783-3304
Funeral Arrangements are as follows:
Wake Keeping: TBD
Funeral Service: Saturday, September 2, 2023, at 9:00 AM
Location: St. Matthew Lutheran Church, Paynesville Red Light, Montserrado, Liberia
Repast Address: Venue will be announced at the Church.
Contacts:
Quaqua Subah: 952-261-7281
Sam Subah: 612-385-1713
Deddeh Mulbah: +61401785772
Kordorku Subah: +231775955200
Yassah Subah Konjahn: +231770201011
Lucinda Jlay-Redd (MaLue): 971-226-0412
Lee Freeman, Jr.: 214-783-3304
