Jesi Bediako tragically lost his life in a motorcycle accident near the Kansas-Missouri border on May 23, 2025, at the age of 22.
He was a talented student-athlete at William Jewell College, where he played as a linebacker for the Cardinals football team.
Jesi Bediako Began His Athletic Journey As A Track And Field Athlete Before Transitioning To Football!
Born and raised in Kansas City, Missouri, Jesi Bediako attended Oak Park High School in Kansas City, MO, where he was part of the Oak Park Track & Field team.
His football journey started at Oak Park High School, where he played varsity football, wearing the #38 jersey.
His primary positions were middle linebacker (MLB) and defensive end (DE).
Later, he continued to play at Southeast Missouri State before transferring to William Jewell College, where he majored in Business Administration.
He was known for his athleticism, leadership, and dedication, making a significant impact both on and off the field.
Extremely explosive. pic.twitter.com/IYNXFX3ett
— Jesi Bediako (@jbediako38) December 18, 2021
Jesi, standing at 6’3″ and weighing 215 pounds, played a crucial role in the team’s defense with standout performances.
In the 2024 season, Jesi Bediako played in seven games, recording a total of three tackles.
During his junior year in 2023, he appeared in nine games, making 27 tackles, with 21 of them being solo efforts.
He also contributed 1.5 tackles for loss and two quarterback hurries. His best performance of the season came against Truman State, where he registered a season-high five tackles.
Jesi’s passing has deeply affected the Kansas City and William Jewell College communities.
Friends, family, teammates, and coaches have shared tributes, praising his positivity and strong work ethic.
William Jewell Football honored Jesi Bediako with a heartfelt tribute, saying:
We are saddened to share the loss of Cardinal senior Jesi Bediako.We send our deepest condolences to his family, friends, teammates, faculty, and support staff.
A memorial service is planned to honor his life, and donations are being encouraged in his name to support aspiring student-athletes.
Our heartfelt condolences go out to Jesi Bediako‘s family, friends, and admirers.
Rest In Peace, Legend!
