To those who knew and loved him, Olutayo Olumayowa Olukoya was first and foremost Dr. T, a devoted husband and father, a generous brother and uncle, a loyal friend, a worshipper and a lover of music. He described himself in simple but revealing words: “Father, husband, worshipper, lover of music, lover of God.” These were more than labels; they captured the values, relationships and passions that defined his life.
At the heart of Tayo’s life was his beloved wife, Mrs Bola Olukoya. Their marriage was marked by deep love, companionship and steadfast commitment. Through joyful seasons and difficult times, they stood faithfully by one another, sharing life’s burdens and celebrating its blessings together. Their bond endured through thick and thin, reflecting a partnership built on love, loyalty and resilience. The life and family they built together remain a lasting testimony to their devotion to one another.
Dr T’s care extended well beyond his immediate household. He was generous, accommodating and dependable, consistently supporting his siblings, nephews and nieces financially and in many other practical ways. He made room for others, offered encouragement and assistance, and treated the concerns of those he loved as his own. To his wider family, he was a reliable source of strength, someone they knew they
could turn to in times of need.
He also placed great value on friendship and enduring relationships. Tayo kept his friends and classmates close, intentionally maintaining strong connections with them over the years. His loyalty and consistency ensured that childhood friends, schoolmates and professional colleagues remained an important part of his life.
Music was woven deeply into Tayo’s life. He played the organ at St Michael’s Anglican Church, Epe, using his musical gift in worship and service to God and the church. He also loved playing the saxophone and would sometimes reach for it immediately after returning home from a long and demanding day at work. For Tayo, music was far more than a pastime; it was an expression of his faith, joy and personality, a source of renewal and a cherished part of who he was.
Tayo’s life journey began on 4 December 1974 in Epe, where he was born to Pa Sunday Abiodun Olukoya and Grace Abeni Olukoya. He attended St Michael’s Anglican Primary School, Epe, before proceeding to Epe Grammar School, Epe, for his secondary education.
Olatayo studied medicine at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria where he earned his Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery degree in 2003. From 2007 to 2012, he served at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, Ikeja, as a Medical Officer and Emergency physician. He pursued postgraduate studies at the University of Bristol, United Kingdom, where he earned an MSc in Reproduction and Development.
Driven by a desire to expand access to quality healthcare, Tayo founded Modern Care Hospital in Lagos, where he served as Medical Director and Chief Executive Officer. Through the hospital, he combined clinical practice with leadership and management, dedicating himself to caring for patients and improving the delivery of medical services.
Tayo was aspirational and forward-looking, always seeking opportunities to grow and to build a better life for his family. This determination underpinned his journey to the United States, where he continued to invest in his education and professional development. In 2019, he obtained a master’s degree in Neuroscience from the University of Hartford and a Graduate Certificate in Intraoperative Neuromonitoring from the University of Connecticut. This specialized training equipped him with expertise in advanced neurological monitoring
techniques used to safeguard patients’ nervous systems during surgery.
Before his transition to glory, Dr Olukoya joined Specialty Care as a Surgical Neurophysiologist, supporting surgical teams across Connecticut and Rhode Island. His journey reflected courage, ambition and a willingness to embrace new opportunities while remaining focused on providing greater possibilities and security for his family.
Yet his qualifications and professional achievements tell only part of his story. The truest measures of Tayo’s life were the love he shared, the family he cherished, the friendships he sustained, the support he gave and the faith that guided him.
He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Bola Olukoya; his children, Miss Mayowa Betty Olukoya and Oluwatumininu Olukoya; and his brothers, cousins, nephews, nieces and other members of his extended family.
His legacy of faith, love, generosity, friendship, aspiration, music and service will continue to live on.
Family and friends may call on Friday, September 11, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 Noon at the Wakelee Memorial Funeral Home 167 Wakelee Avenue, Ansonia. Funeral services will take place at 12:00 Noon.
Interment will directly follow in Pine Grove Cemetery, Ansonia. Online condolences may be made at www.wakeleememorial.com.