It is with deep sorrow and heavy hearts that we share the news of the passing of Fola Okerufai, a beloved student at Westview Centennial Secondary School in Toronto, Ontario. Fola’s untimely death has left an indescribable void in the hearts of his family, friends, classmates, and teachers. His passing is a profound loss not only to those who knew him personally but to the entire Westview school community, which mourns the loss of a bright, kind, and promising young life taken far too soon.
Fola was more than just a student — he was a source of light and positivity to everyone around him. Known for his warm smile, infectious laughter, and genuine spirit, he had an incredible ability to connect with people from all walks of life. His friends describe him as someone who could instantly lift the mood of any room he entered, always ready with a joke, a kind word, or a helping hand. He had a gentle way of making others feel seen and valued, and his compassion left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
At Westview Centennial Secondary School, Fola was a dedicated and engaged student who was deeply respected by his peers and teachers alike. His curiosity and enthusiasm for learning were matched only by his willingness to help others. Whether collaborating on class projects, mentoring younger students, or offering encouragement to classmates who were struggling, Fola embodied the values of kindness, determination, and respect that Westview strives to instill in every student.
Beyond the classroom, Fola’s interests and talents reflected his multifaceted personality. He loved sports, especially soccer, and was often seen playing with friends during lunch breaks or after school, his competitive spirit balanced by his sense of teamwork and sportsmanship. Music was another one of his passions — he loved listening to different genres, often sharing songs with friends and using music as a way to bring people together. Those close to him say that his playlist was as vibrant and diverse as his personality.
Fola’s family describes him as a deeply caring son, brother, and friend whose presence brought joy and laughter to their home. He was thoughtful and selfless, always putting others before himself and offering comfort whenever someone needed it. His parents and siblings remember him as the heartbeat of their family — the one who kept everyone smiling even on the hardest days. Fola’s love for his family was unwavering, and he cherished every moment spent with them.
The news of Fola’s passing has rippled through the Toronto community, leaving classmates, teachers, and friends struggling to come to terms with this heartbreaking loss. The administration at Westview Centennial Secondary School released a statement expressing their condolences and emphasizing the profound impact Fola had on the school:
“Fola was a cherished member of our school community whose kindness, leadership, and bright spirit touched everyone around him. His absence will be deeply felt by students, staff, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. We extend our deepest sympathies to Fola’s family during this incredibly difficult time.”
Counselors have been made available at Westview to support students and staff as they process their grief and come together to remember Fola’s life. Plans are also underway for a memorial service at the school, where classmates will have the opportunity to share memories, tributes, and messages of love in his honor.
As friends and loved ones reflect on Fola’s life, they remember not only his achievements but his heart — the way he cared, the way he loved, and the way he lived each day with purpose and positivity. Though his journey was tragically cut short, the mark he left on the world will endure. His laughter, kindness, and determination will continue to inspire those who knew him to live with compassion and courage, just as he did.
Fola’s passing is a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment we share with those we love. He will be remembered as a young man of promise, integrity, and warmth — a son, brother, friend, and student whose light will continue to shine in the hearts of all who were touched by his presence.
To honor his memory, the Westview community is planning a Celebration of Life where students and teachers will gather to share stories, photos, and songs that capture the beautiful spirit of Fola Okerufai. His legacy will live on through the lives he touched, the friendships he nurtured, and the love he shared so freely.
Rest in peace, Fola Okerufai. Your light will never fade.
