Dr. Johann Richter – Head of the Richter Family of Osu, Christian Coleman – Head of the Coleman Family of Osu and Akropong, Rev. Dr. Chris Hesse – Head of the Hesse Family, and other prominent family heads announced the passing of Gilbert Edward Richter, also known as Rocky Tony or Uncle Gillie, on Wednesday, 21 October 2026 at Greater Accra Regional Hospital. The announcement was made with deep sorrow by the families of Osu and Akropong, including the Swaniker and Engmann Families of Osu, and Her Excellency Virginia Hesse.
Richter’s final rites will begin with a lying‑in‑state and thanksgiving service on Thursday, 26 November 2026 at 10:00 a.m. at Transitions Funeral Home, Haatso. The service will be attended by his children, Mrs. Pearl Adeline Abankwah, Belinda Ivy Richter and Beryl Ernestina Richter, as well as his grandchildren, Johann Andreas Nyamekye Abankwah. Siblings Mrs. Mary Fleischer and Ernest Richter, along with a long list of cousins, nephews, nieces and extended family members, are expected to attend.
Chief mourners for the service will include Dr. Johann Richter, Christian Coleman, Rev. Dr. Chris Hesse, Head of Nii Akoto We of Osu Alata, Head of Nii Adumuah We of Osu Agblaoshie, and representatives from the Swaniker and Engmann Families. Friends and sympathizers are cordially invited to pay their respects.
As the community gathers to honour Gilbert Edward Richter’s life, the families hope for a peaceful transition and a celebration of his legacy within the Osu and Akropong communities.
