Etsuko Inoue

Etsuko Inoue, cherished mother, aunt and a beacon of light in the world of nursing and academia, passed away on February 26, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of unwavering dedication and profound kindness. Born on August 24, 1937, in beautiful, brookside village in Kumamoto Japan, Etsuko's journey brought her to the bustling streets of New York, where her final chapter gracefully concluded. Etsuko, known for her gentle demeanor and selfless nature, was a woman of courage who inspired everyone she encountered. She was a beloved mother, aunt, and mentor, survived by her daughter Mari Matsumoto, and her nieces and nephews Michiyo Nakashima, Emiko Fukaura, Hidehiko Asakura, and Hiroaki Asakura, all of whom she cherished deeply. Her passion for adventure and learning led her to New York in the early 1960s as a trainee for the American Cancer Society and New York University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, and later to Columbia University's Teachers College for a Master's degree. These institutions not only polished her skills but also became the stepping stones for her remarkable career. Etsuko's academic spirit took flight back in her homeland, where she was a founding professor of Bachelors and Master level nursing programs at Saga University, Kumamoto Health Science University, and Junshin University in Japan. Her wisdom and expertise were not confined to the classroom; as Assistant Director of Nursing at Goldwater Memorial Hospital, she touched the lives of countless patients and colleagues. Her active participation in international nursing conferences showcased her commitment to quality of life issues in the geriatric population and her belief in the power of unity and collaboration. To describe Etsuko as kind, selfless, and courageous barely scratches the surface of her character. She was a visionary, a trailblazer in her field, and a nurturing figure who guided others to reach their highest potential. Etsuko's life was a testament to the impact one individual can have on the world. Through her actions, she demonstrated that kindness is the truest form of strength, selflessness the purest form of love, and courage the most genuine form of leadership. As we celebrate Etsuko's remarkable life, let us remember the values she embodied. Let her memory be a call to action for each of us to live with purpose, to serve with compassion, and to lead with courage. Etsuko Inoue's story is not one of sorrow but a narrative that motivates us to be better, to do more, and to love fiercely. In her absence, the world may seem a little dimmer, but the light she ignited in the hearts of those who knew her will continue to shine. Etsuko's spirit lives on through the lives of her daughter, her students, the patients she cared for, and the family she adored. Her legacy is an unwavering flame, a reminder that we, too, can be forces of positive change. As we bid farewell to Etsuko, let us not dwell on the loss but rather embrace the profound lessons she imparted. Let us carry forward her spirit of generosity and her unrelenting pursuit of excellence. She touched many lives, and her influence will resonate for generations to come. Etsuko Inoue's life was a journey of love, learning, and unwavering commitment to the betterment of humanity. May we all aspire to live with the grace and dignity that she exemplified every day. Her story is not one that ends but rather continues in each act of kindness we bestow upon the world. Rest in peace, dear Etsuko, and thank you for the indelible mark you have left on our hearts.
In lieu of flowers please make a donation in honor of Etsuko please donate to: New York Buddhist Church and the Alzheimer's Association alz.org