Emmanuel Ololade Olisa

For live stream please click here 

In Loving Memory of Emmanuel Lolade Olisa 

February 2, 1942 - August 6, 2024

We announce with deep sorrow the passing of Emmanuel Lolade Olisa on August 6, 2024. Born on February 2, 1942, in Ogbagi, Akoko, Ondo State, Nigeria, to High Chief David Bamisile Olisa of Emuta Ogbagi and Mary Ade Olisa, Emmanuel's life was marked by a relentless pursuit of knowledge, community, and love.

Emmanuel began his education at St. John Primary School and continued to New Church Grammar School in Owo. As a young man, he was energetic and ambitious, and he was known for looking out for family and friends. He worked with the Western Nigerian Marketing Board at Cocoa House in Ibadan, where his commitment to excellence was evident.

In 1970, Emmanuel came to the United States on a student visa, where he pursued his education and career. He graduated from the New York City Technical School of Dentistry and further expanded his knowledge at Pratt Institute, studying Interior Design, Upholstery, Architectural Design, and Photography. He also earned a Bachelor's degree in Fine Arts from the New York Institute of Technology, specializing in Urban Planning and Traffic Control. Emmanuel was among the first Africans to work for New York City's Air Traffic Control.

After moving from Brooklyn to Staten Island to start a family, Emmanuel embraced entrepreneurship, from owning his own New York City yellow cab to founding his own car dealership, Metropolitan Auto Imports. The dealership thrived under his leadership, and later, in partnership with his eldest son, they opened an auto body shop to complement the car dealership.

His entrepreneurial spirit was complemented by his charm, charisma, and stylish presence. Later in life, he transitioned to real estate and became a respected NY Real Estate Agent.

In retirement, he worked and volunteered with the Stapleton Senior Center and Canvas Institute. Emmanuel later returned to his roots in farming, joyfully harvesting fruits and vegetables to share with family, friends, and neighbors. He was a man full of life, a go-getter, loyal, and always social. He was involved and once served as president of the Ogbagi Da Association, as well as being a member of Yoruba House Staten Island, New York. He spent the latter part of his life enjoying his grandchildren, which brought him immense joy.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Modupe Olisa; his children, Bobby Digi Olisa, Tolulope Olisa, Olawande Olisa, and Adelanke Olisa-Sackie; and his grandchildren, Othello Olisa, Author Olisa, Henry Olisa Jr., Avi Ayanru, Prince Olisa, and Oreoluwa Sackie.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Emmanuel Ololade Olisa, please visit our floral store.