Florence, KY — Community Grieves the Sudden Loss of Edith Obeng, 53, in Tragic Pedestrian Accident
October 11, 2025 — Florence, Kentucky
It is with profound sorrow and a heavy heart that the Florence community mourns the untimely passing of Edith Obeng, 53, a beloved mother, grandmother, friend, and pillar of faith, who tragically lost her life in a pedestrian accident on the evening of Friday, October 10, 2025.
The incident occurred shortly after 8:30 p.m. near the intersection of Burlington Pike and Ewing Boulevard, a busy corridor in Florence’s city center. According to the Florence Police Department, Edith was struck by a vehicle while attempting to cross the road. Emergency personnel responded quickly and transported her to St. Elizabeth Hospital, but despite all life-saving efforts, she succumbed to her injuries later that evening.
The driver of the vehicle remained on the scene and is cooperating with authorities. As of Saturday morning, no charges have been filed, and the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collision is ongoing. Florence Police are reviewing surveillance footage from nearby businesses and seeking any witnesses who may have seen the incident unfold.
A Life of Purpose, Faith, and Generosity
Originally from Ghana, Edith Obeng immigrated to the United States in the early 2000s in search of opportunity and a better life for her children. Over the past two decades, she built a strong and vibrant life in Florence, becoming a beloved member of the community, a faithful member of her local church, and a role model to many.
Edith was a dedicated caregiver by profession, working in the healthcare field for more than 15 years. She was known for her warm smile, calming presence, and a heart full of compassion. Her colleagues at the long-term care facility where she worked described her as “the kind of nurse who treated every patient like family.”
Beyond her professional contributions, Edith was a devoted mother to her three children — two of whom have followed her footsteps into the medical field — and a proud grandmother to four young grandchildren.
“She lived her life for others,” said her eldest daughter, Naomi Obeng, during an emotional statement. “Whether it was her patients, her family, or her church, she gave her time, her love, and her energy without expecting anything in return. She was our rock.”
A Community in Mourning
News of Edith’s tragic death spread rapidly through the Florence and Northern Kentucky communities, prompting an outpouring of grief and remembrance. At her church, Mount Zion Pentecostal, where Edith served as a deaconess and choir member, congregants gathered in prayer on Saturday morning, lighting candles and offering support to the grieving Obeng family.
“She wasn’t just a member of our congregation — she was family,” said Pastor Kenneth James. “Edith carried herself with grace and humility. She was always the first to volunteer and the last to leave. This loss is unimaginable.”
Neighbors described Edith as a gentle, dependable presence on her street — someone who could always be counted on for a kind word, a helping hand, or a homemade meal. Her Ghanaian heritage was a source of deep pride, and she often hosted community dinners celebrating African culture, music, and food.
“Losing her feels like losing a piece of our community’s soul,” said longtime neighbor Carla Henderson. “She was a bridge between cultures, between generations, and between people.”
A Call for Pedestrian Safety
The location of the accident has drawn concern from local residents and city officials, as Burlington Pike is known to have heavy traffic and limited pedestrian infrastructure in certain areas. In light of Edith’s tragic death, community leaders are calling for immediate action to improve street lighting, crosswalk visibility, and driver awareness.
“Edith’s death is a heartbreaking reminder that our city’s infrastructure must prioritize pedestrian safety,” said Florence City Councilwoman Teresa Ramos. “We owe it to her, and to all residents, to ensure that a simple act like crossing the street doesn’t become a life-or-death risk.”
The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet and city planners have pledged to review safety measures at the intersection in question.
Remembering Edith Obeng
A public memorial service and celebration of life will be held on Friday, October 17, at Mount Zion Pentecostal Church, located at 2134 Main Street, Florence, KY. The viewing will begin at 10:00 a.m., with the service to follow at 12:00 p.m. A private burial ceremony will be held for family and close friends.
In honor of her generous spirit and her commitment to caregiving, the Obeng family has established the Edith Obeng Memorial Fund, which will support nursing students from immigrant backgrounds who are pursuing careers in healthcare.
Donations can be made via www.EdithObengMemorial.org, or directly at Fifth Third Bank branches across Northern Kentucky.
In Loving Memory of Edith Obeng (1972–2025)
A mother, caregiver, woman of faith, and a light to all who knew her. Though her life was tragically cut short, her impact will live on in the lives she touched and the love she shared.
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