Nkiruka Ozoemena Nzekwu was born on November 13, 1994, and died on February 14, 2025. Born premature to parents Sharon and Olisa Nzekwu, Nkiruka came into the world with a tenacious spirit. She was raised between Bridgeport and Monroe, Connecticut, and brought her big heart, big laugh, and bold presence to all lucky enough to know her. Nkiruka was blessed with a gentle tenderness that ran just as deep as her unwavering conviction, qualities that she extended to each domain of her life, ranging from interactions with loved ones to those she serviced in the healthcare and childcare industries. At the time of her sudden passing, Nkiruka was pursuing a degree in social work, a professional development that would have increased her ability to do the work she already did - impact the lives of others. Nkiruka is survived by her parents, her siblings, her cousins, her aunts and uncles, her friends, her cat Luffy, and the countless people to whom she brought joy and comfort.