ATLANTA—In celebration of her story, dozens flocked to the Hillside International Truth Center August 27 and many more watched the live webcast over the Nation of Islam’s flagship website (NOI.org) paying tribute and giving honor to the life and legacy of Sister Maryam Aziz.
A devoted mother, grandmother and a cherished friend and sister to many, Sister Maryam transitioned peacefully surrounded by family on August 21.
Her Janazah (funeral service) was officiated by Student Minister Donald Muhammad of St. Louis, Missouri, and the closing Janazah prayer was performed by longtime family friend Imam Misbahu Ahmed Rufai from Chicago.
Brother Leonard F. Muhammad, a member of the Nation of Islam Shura Executive Council, read a statement from and on behalf of the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan.
In the statement, the Minister detailed his years of friendship and love for Sister Maryam and Minister Abdul Akbar Muhammad, International Representative of the Nation of Islam, and their seven daughters.
“To the family, friends and fellow believers in the cause of Allah. It is an honor for me to offer condolences and words of comfort from myself, family and the family, friends and extended family of Maryam Aziz,” read the statement. “While I am not there present with you, my mind, my heart and my spirit are with all of you who mourn the loss of our departed sister Maryam Aziz.
I’ve known Sister Maryam since 1965 and for that long, I’ve also known her husband Brother Akbar, my great helper in the cause of Allah. My children grew up knowing her and her children. My wife and Sister Maryam were lifelong Islamic friends.”
As his words drew to a close, the Minister added, “May Allah grant her the promise to those who have lived and died in the submission of His will. I pray that the children whom she raised and grandchildren will receive the reward of a mother, grandmother and faithful believer in Allah.
Brother Akbar,” continued the Minister’s statement. “I pray that Allah will strengthen you, keep and bless you and comfort you in the loss of your faithful friend and soulmate.”
Libation and obituary reading were performed by Sister Tauheedah Amon-Ra and Sister Naessa Aziz (Sister Maryam’s granddaughter). Reflections were offered by Minister Akbar Muhammad and their daughter Naja Aziz.
Words of comfort were offered by Rev. Dr. Denise Brown and expressions of gratitude were shared from Sister Maryam and Minister Akbar’s oldest daughter, Samimah Aziz, on behalf of the family.
“It’s been a whirlwind week,” she opened. She thanked Bishop Jack and the staff at Hillside International Truth Center for holding the service. “I also want to say thank you to (Student Southern Regional) Minister Sharrieff (Muhammad). Because once my mother passed, I called him. … I called him every day and every morning trying to get plans together.
I’d like to thank Sister (Student Southern Regional) Captain Nusaybah Muhammad, the MGT, the FOI of Atlanta … my dad Brother Akbar. Last, but not least, I want to thank … I affectionately call him Brother Minister, The Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan, for just opening up his house.”
Sister Samimah spoke of love and connection with the Farrakhan family. “We don’t always connect like normal friends do. But anytime, anywhere we love you, Brother Minister. You and your family.”—Eric Ture Muhammad, Contributing Writer
