Willie A. Abdullah

On the afternoon of March 9th, 2020 the world said goodbye to Willie Abdullah, as he was called home to rest in peace after a long battle with complications from multiple strokes. Willie is survived by his wife of over 60 years, Ethel, his sister Amie, his six children (and their spouses), Tracy, Harson (Sabrina), Naeema (Javed), Evoien (EJ), Anthony (Erin), and Quran (Derrick). He is also survived by 16 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. Beyond the love and devotion of his children and extended family, Willie leaves behind a legacy carved through over 80 years of a life well-lived. His was the legacy of a man who lived his life with honor. Willie never shied away from a challenge, never ran from responsibility, and never turned away a person in their time of need. Willie never met a crappie he wouldn't filet and season just right. He loved to fish and shared that love with anyone willing to wet a hook. He also loved to work in the garden, was a very talented artist, and adored spending time with his grandchildren. He could build or fix anything and single-handedly kept every rust bucket in the neighborhood on the road. He had a talent for problem-solving that would make the average MIT engineering student ask for a refund of their tuition. Even for a man of limited material possessions, he was generous beyond reasonable expectations and would give a stranger the shirt off his back for the asking. Although he was a product of the segregated south and their backward views on educating poor or black people, he maintained a thirst for knowledge and appreciated it wherever it was found. He could often be found sharing wisdom with backyard philosophers or listening to talk radio. He was a man of great conviction having devoted his life to the teachings of Prophet Muhammad and was a devoted practitioner of Al Islam, no matter what America thought or had to say about it. His dedication to his family, his community, and his faith, are the cornerstones of his legacy. He believed in doing what was right no matter what the cost. He was a fiercely independent man from whom we were all privileged to have learned something. It was nearly impossible to spend five minutes with him and not come away at least a little smarter and a little better off for the experience. It is that legacy that we should all aspire to and carry on in his memory. He inspired all he encountered to strive to live their best lives, filled with purpose and meaning, to believe in something greater than oneself, and to always do what is right, even if it is hard. The world lost a great man, a strong leader, and a great role model. He was a beacon of hope to those born with two strikes against them, but who refuse to give up despite the odds. His silly laugh and toothy grin will be missed but the love he inspired, the lessons he taught, and the light he gave off will continue to illuminate a path for the rest of us to follow if we will but accept the challenge and continue his journey. We love you dad and will always carry your love, light, and legacy in our hearts.

Funeral Service

Thursday, March 12, 2020 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Watson's Funeral Home
10913 Superior Ave. Cleveland 44106, US