Leominster’s beloved student, Senior Joachim “Kofi” Agyei sadly passed away after many years of battling Leukemia on Thursday, November 14. Many knew him as kind, intelligent, always positive, and polite. Wherever he went, his smile was contagious.
He was always willing to help and advise others whenever they needed it. He was always happy, no matter what situation he was in. Many of his friends had wonderful memories of him
“He was just always, always positive and just happy. Like, I’ve always seen him as a happy kid. I love him so much,” said Senior Felicia Addo.
His friends knew him through the Presbyterian Church of Ghana in Leominster and elementary school, Johnny Appleseed. When he was diagnosed, many were devastated, but always stuck by his side to support him.
“Playing soccer together during the weekends me, him, and a couple of our friends playing a lot of FIFA together, a lot of Fortnite, stuff like that, playing video games that stuff,” said Senior Yvensky Mondestin, explaining the memories he had of Joachim.
“Honestly like playing soccer with him, having fun with him in elementary school,” said Senior Daniel Asante, also explaining one of the memories he had of Joachim.
He was a hard worker who was always willing to give his best in everything he did. He was also known to have never expressed feelings of anger towards anyone.
“Hardworking, very, very hardworking, dedicated, and strong mentally, spiritually, and obivously physically, to be able to fight off the cancer and then for it to unfortunately come back,” said Junior Nana Sarpong.
“Tough, very, very, very, very smart, straightforward, motivational, so happy, and full of joy, you know. I was thinking about it, you know, after he passed, I was really thinking about it to myself and I was like, when have I really seen Kofi mad?” said Sophomore Abby Yankey.
World History and Street and Practical Law Teacher, Mr. Lafayette had Joachim as a student for Street and Practical Law I this school year. Based on all the interactions he had with Joachim, he recognized Joachim as, “Quiet, polite” and also stated, “I wasn’t sure if he was shy or reserved, but he was definitely a polite young man.”
The school’s press release from the Superintendent, sent out on Thursday, November 14, at 3:46 PM stated that “he was seen by his family and friends as a hero, who courageously battled Leukemia, for almost 7 years. He was a bright, kind, and valued member of our school community.”
Overall, Joachim was a great student. He was even offered a full-ride scholarship to Harvard University. He was a great friend and just a great person in general. He always put a smile on his face, even during his roughest days. He touched the lives of many who knew him, leaving a huge positive impact before he left.