Monrovia — Relatives, friends, and residents of Thinker’s Village are mourning the death of Edwin Borbor Zelee, the founder of the popular beachfront community, remembered as a generous businessman, devoted family man, and a symbol of Liberian warmth and resilience.
Edwin Zelee was born on November 24, 1954, in Sinoe County to Farley Zelee Sr. and Lucy Dahwone Zelee. Affectionately known to family and friends as “Zico,” he was widely admired for his kindness, humor, and ability to bring people together.
From an early age, Zico’s warm and compassionate spirit drew people to him, forming friendships that lasted a lifetime. His father, family members recall, recognized his promise early and ensured he had access to quality education. Zico attended Demonstration School before moving on to St. Patrick’s and St. John’s schools, later completing high school at Fatima High School in Maryland County.
Known for his generosity even as a student, Zico earned the admiration of younger pupils at St. John’s, who fondly referred to him as their “play pa” because he would often give away his meals after school. Friends from his school years also recall his easy laughter, openness, and growing reputation for kindness—traits that defined his life.
Outgoing, humorous, and stylish, Zico was a man who lit up rooms with laughter. He enjoyed making people laugh—sometimes with them, sometimes at them—but always in good spirit. His sense of style was legendary; impeccably dressed, he carried himself with effortless confidence, blending charm, elegance, and warmth.
In 1974, Zico met his future wife, Sieh, while she was attending Saint Theresa’s Convent. After several years of courtship, they married in 1981 and raised six children together. Zico was a devoted father who maintained close relationships with all his children throughout his life.
Professional Life and Public Service
Zico’s charisma and work ethic carried naturally into his professional life. While attending the University of Liberia, he worked part-time with the Liberia National Police (LNP). After earning a degree in Business Management, he rose to become Acting Chief of Planning and Research at the LNP.
In 1979, he transitioned to the Ministry of Public Works as Payroll Superintendent for the Organization of African Unity (OAU) project. Following the 1980 coup, he joined the Liberia Petroleum Refinery Company (LPRC) in 1981 as a Marketing Manager, a move that marked a defining chapter in his career.
At LPRC, Zico held several senior positions and became known for creating opportunities for others. His leadership potential earned him a six-month management training at Arthur D. Little in Boston, Massachusetts. Colleagues recall him as a generous mentor who helped many find employment and advance professionally.
He also founded the LPRC Sports Association, whose football team was famously known as the LPRC Oilers. His humor was legendary; when told that players were waiting outside his office, he would jokingly reply, “You mean those brokers have come again?”—a remark that never failed to draw laughter.
War, Return, and Private Enterprise
Liberia’s civil war disrupted Zico’s professional path, forcing him to spend time in Sierra Leone and the United States, where he worked with the Red Cross. In 2004, he returned home, and during President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf’s first term, he was appointed Chairman of the Forestry Development Authority (FDA).
After public service, Zico focused on private ventures, particularly in real estate. His passion for construction was so evident that friends joked he had “cement running through his veins.”
His most enduring private legacy was the creation of Thinker’s Village. What began as seven small hotel rooms grew into a thriving complex with more than 30 rooms, a restaurant, conference hall, and nightclub. The surrounding area eventually took on the name Thinker’s Village in recognition of his impact.
Despite owning property across Liberia, the beachfront community became his home. Every Sunday, friends gathered there to discuss football, politics, and life, sharing laughter and stories. Thinker’s Village, many say, was built with his blood, sweat, and tears.
In 2024, Zico returned to LPRC as a board member, remaining actively involved with both the company and Thinker’s Village until his passing.
A Man of the People
Despite his success, Zico remained deeply humble. He never considered himself above anyone and had a rare ability to connect with people from all walks of life. If he walked into a place alone, friends say, he walked out surrounded by friends.
Many Liberians recall receiving meals, money, jobs, or guidance from Zico during difficult moments. He encouraged many to return home, invest in Liberia, and give back to their communities. His influence stretches across Liberia and the diaspora.
“He was Liberia in spirit and in soul,” family members said. “His life reflected the resilience, warmth, and generosity of the country he loved.”
Survivors
Edwin Borbor Zelee is survived by his wife, Sieh Giple Zelee, and his children: Joydine Zelee (Harmon), Treyah Zelee, Nora Zelee, Farlita Zelee, Tilnise Zelee Connor, Patricia Zelee, Whitney Zelee, Charlynne Zelee, David Zelee, Austin Zelee, Vanessa Zelee, Ophelia Zelee, and Hjordis Zelee Kaine.
He is also survived by numerous grandchildren and siblings, along with a wide circle of relatives, friends, colleagues, and community members.
In death, he joins his parents, Farley Zelee Sr. and Lucy Dahwone Zelee, and several siblings who predeceased him.
Though his name may not be etched on monuments, his legacy lives on in lives touched, communities built, and the enduring spirit of generosity he embodied. He will be deeply missed.
Funeral Arrangements
Meanwhile, the family has announced that funeral activities will begin on Friday, January 23, with the removal of the body from St. Moses Funeral Parlours at 1:00 p.m. The body will be taken to the Harvest Intercontinental Cathedral, Congo Town, for wake-keeping from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Funeral service will take place on Saturday, January 24, at Harvest Intercontinental from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., to be followed by interment at Shiata Flowers and Vaults in Careysburg, Montserrado County.
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