Dr. Chinyere Chinelo "CeCe" Onyenekwu

Dr. Chinyere Chinelo "CeCe" Onyenekwu, age 43, entered eternal rest in heaven on September 13, 2025. She is survived by her parents, Dr. Chidi and Prof. Ugoo Onyenekwu, and her siblings, Nkeiruka, Chinwe, Ikenna, Ifeyinwa, and Chukwuemeka Onyenekwu. Cece was a proud graduate of Eleanor McMain Magnet School and Dillard University of New Orleans, where she excelled as a student-athlete, earning both academic and athletic basketball scholarships. She went on to the University of Houston College of Optometry, where she earned her Doctor of Optometry (O.D.). Following graduation, Cece launched a remarkable 21-year career. She began practicing in Brooklyn, New York, and later earned licenses in five states and emerged as a pioneer in telehealth optometry. As a member of Black Optometrists and African Professionals, she dedicated herself to serving her community both domestically and abroad. With great passion, she led mission trips to Edo State, Nigeria, where she championed primary eye care for underserved populations. Her commitment to this work secured sponsorships and hundreds of donated eyeglasses, which she ensured reached those in need at no cost. Cece later returned home to New Orleans, where with vision, determination, and heart, she established her own practice. Her patients remember her for her kindness, excellence, and unwavering dedication. Beyond her professional life, Cece lived vibrantly. She loved traveling to tropical beaches or European excursions with friends, supporting Black-owned businesses, and celebrating life's milestones with those she loved-birthdays, baptisms, baby showers, First Saturdays at the Brooklyn Museum, or a midweek trip to the World War II Museum in New Orleans. Those who knew Cece will remember her as loving, joyful, and giving, with a big personality that filled every room. Her laughter was infectious, her spirit generous, and her ability to bring people together a true gift. Guided by faith and compassion, CeCe embraced life with a zest that inspired all who cross her path. She touched countless lives as a devoted daughter, sister, aunt, godmother, and friend. Relatives and friends are invited to attend her funeral services. Wake/Celebration of Life on Friday, September 26, 2025, at 7 pm Transfiguration Catholic Church, 5621 Elysian Fields Ave. at Prentiss Street, New Orleans, La. 70122. Funeral Services: Viewing on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. followed by Funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m. at St. Maria Goretti Catholic Church, 7300 Crowder Blvd, New Orleans, LA 70127. Interment: Garden of Memories, 4900 Airline Dr. Metairie, LA 70001. Repast: City Express Marriott-10100 I-10 Service Rd, New Orleans, La.70127. Her memory will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and all who were blessed to know her radiant spirit. With love and gratitude, The Onyenekwu Family.
Live Stream: Friday Wake and Celebration of Life https://youtube.com/live/ebA_9Jf6PiY?feature=share
Live Stream: Saturday Funeral Mass, https://youtube.com/live/4Ca-hWXX6dE?feature=share
Arrangements Entrusted To
Estelle J. Wilson Funeral Home, Inc.
2715 Danneel Street, NOLA 70113
Information: (504) 895-4903