Obituary: Osei Van Horne, Renowned J.P. Morgan Managing Partner, Passes Away in San Francisco, CA
San Francisco and the global financial community are mourning the loss of Osei Van Horne, a visionary leader, mentor, and advocate for social impact, who passed away unexpectedly following heart surgery. As Co-Global Head and Managing Partner of J.P. Morgan’s Sustainable Capital, Mr. Van Horne’s contributions to the fields of finance, technology, and private equity have left an indelible mark on industries and communities alike.
A Distinguished Career in Finance and Social Impact
Osei Van Horne was a trailblazer in the world of private equity and venture capital, known for his ability to blend innovation with a strong commitment to social responsibility. At J.P. Morgan, he played a pivotal role in spearheading the firm’s Sustainable Capital initiatives and was a Co-Head of its social impact project, Project Black, a multi-billion-dollar private equity fund under Ariel Alternatives. This initiative was designed to invest in companies led by diverse management teams, demonstrating Mr. Van Horne’s unwavering dedication to advancing equity and inclusion in the corporate landscape.
Before joining J.P. Morgan, Mr. Van Horne held prominent positions at some of the world’s leading financial institutions. He co-founded the Technology Division of Wells Fargo’s growth equity practice, guiding transformative investments in emerging technologies. Prior to that, he served as a private equity investor in Goldman Sachs’ Merchant Banking Division, where he focused on supporting businesses led by diverse leadership.
Throughout his career, Mr. Van Horne was repeatedly recognized for his excellence and influence. He was named one of the 50 Most Influential Venture Capital Investors by GCV from 2019 to 2021 and was included in PitchBook’s 2022 and 2023 lists of Notable African Americans in Technology.
A Commitment to Education and Mentorship
In addition to his financial acumen, Osei Van Horne was passionate about education and mentoring future leaders. He served as an Adjunct Professor at Columbia University Graduate School of Business, where he taught Foundations of Private Equity. His thought leadership extended beyond the classroom, as he authored several impactful white papers on private equity optimization, including Impact of Group-Buying Models on Small Business Purchasing: Pilot Research Analysis, published in Institutional Investor Journals – Journal of Private Equity.
Mr. Van Horne also championed causes aimed at fostering diversity and supporting underrepresented groups. As a member of the Board of Advisors for the Women’s Venture Fund, he worked to empower women entrepreneurs by providing financing and advisory services. He was also a mentor at All Raise, a nonprofit organization focused on increasing the pipeline of women in venture capital.
A Devoted Family Man and Community Advocate
Beyond his professional achievements, Mr. Van Horne was deeply devoted to his family and community. He resided in the San Francisco Bay Area with his wife, Gabryel, and their two daughters, Kennedy and Briar, who were his greatest sources of pride. Known for his warmth, intelligence, and generosity, he cherished the time he spent with loved ones and maintained close ties with extended family and friends.
A proud graduate of Howard University, Mr. Van Horne credited his success to the strong foundation he built during his formative years. Family members fondly recall his uncle, Glenroy Williams, bringing him to Washington, D.C., to attend Howard University in the early 2000s. His cousin, Brenda Minor, reminisced about his visits to family gatherings, including the memorable Minor/Hawkins family picnic in 2019, where his presence brought joy and laughter.
A Lasting Legacy
The unexpected loss of Osei Van Horne has left an immense void in the lives of those who knew him personally and professionally. His contributions to the financial world, his mentorship of future leaders, and his dedication to fostering diversity and inclusion have created a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire generations.
The financial industry, academic institutions, and nonprofit organizations that benefited from his leadership are now reflecting on his extraordinary impact. Colleagues describe him as a visionary who combined a deep understanding of markets with a genuine desire to make the world a better place. His mentorship shaped the careers of many, and his tireless efforts to champion equity and inclusion will resonate for years to come.
Funeral Arrangements and Tributes
The Van Horne family has requested privacy as they navigate this profound loss. Funeral arrangements will be announced at a later date. In the meantime, friends, colleagues, and members of the community have shared an outpouring of tributes and condolences, honoring his remarkable life and the values he upheld.
Many have expressed interest in establishing a scholarship or memorial fund in Mr. Van Horne’s name to continue his work in empowering underrepresented communities. Such initiatives would be a fitting tribute to a man whose life was dedicated to fostering opportunity and advancing social good.
In Memory of Osei Van Horne
Osei Van Horne was far more than a financial executive—he was a beacon of hope, a devoted family man, and a mentor whose wisdom and kindness touched countless lives. As the San Francisco community and the broader financial world mourn his loss, they also celebrate the extraordinary legacy he leaves behind.
Rest in peace, Osei Van Horne. Your life was a testament to the power of vision, kindness, and unwavering commitment to making a difference. Your contributions will never be forgotten, and your memory will continue to inspire.
