BOSTON—The city of Boston, the Nation of Islam, and the communities Minister Don Muhammad dedicated his life to uplifting, mourned the loss of a remarkable leader, visionary, and servant of faith during a Dec. 20 janazah prayer and memorial service.
Minister Don Muhammad was the esteemed minister emeritus of Mosque No. 11 and former regional minister of the Nation of Islam. He passed away on December 17, 2024. He was 87.
The service at Morning Star Baptist Church in Mattapan, Massachusetts, was a fitting tribute to a life well-lived and a race well-run. Bishop John M. Borders III provided the opening scripture reading, followed by an opening prayer and Quranic reading led by Student Assistant Minister James Muhammad.
Student Minister Randy Muhammad of Mosque No. 11 delivered the eulogy, reflecting on Minister Don’s extraordinary life of service, faith, and community impact. Family and friends recalled his tireless work ethic and dedication to uplifting others.
Brother William 5X recounted how Minister Don once leveraged his influence to help him secure employment at the transit authority. “That’s power and strength,” he said, describing Minister Don as a father figure to many.
Sister Leontine Muhammad was inspired hearing Minister Don teach and she shared how his dynamic speeches encouraged Black Bostonians to strive for self-reliance and community building. “Minister Don worked tirelessly to fight against drugs, uplift the people, and carry forward the mission of the Honorable Elijah Muhammad,” she said.
Bishop John Matthew Borders III of Morning Star Baptist Church described him as “the spine of the faith community,” acknowledging his tireless advocacy for truth, unity, and the rights of Black people. “Even in difficult times, he remained committed to love and truth,” Bishop Borders said.
Heartfelt family reflections brought Minister Don’s legacy to life, as his children—Shirley Straughter-Carrington, Cheryl Straughter, Yvette Muhammad, and son Brian Straughter—shared touching anecdotes. Many noted his dedication to family and his enduring love for his wife Shirley, whom he worked alongside to build a strong and loving household.
Both Brother Don and Sister Shirley were staunch helpers of the Most Honorable Elijah Muhammad and the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan. Sister Shirley passed away in 2021.
Representing the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan, his son Student Supreme Captain Mustapha Farrakhan and Student Minister Ishmael Muhammad, the National Assistant to Minister Farrakhan, delivered remarks celebrating Minister Don’s divine qualities and enduring influence. Student Min. Ishmael Muhammad also led the janazah prayer service.
“Minister Don Muhammad’s life was one of unwavering faith, selfless service, and dedication to empowering others,” remarked Student Minister Ishmael Muhammad.
He celebrated Minister Don as a mentor and leader, describing him as “a man of profound character and influence,” and noted his steadfast commitment to his identity—unapologetically Black and unapologetically Muslim.
A life of faith and leadership
“Minister Don’s influence stretched from his deep community roots in Boston to collaborations with influential figures like Malcolm X. He embodied unity and upliftment, inspiring others through teaching on cherishing one another, respecting elders, and practicing gratitude.
While no longer physically present, his spirit and enduring legacy continue to inspire those striving for justice, righteousness, and unity,” Student Min. Ishmael Muhammad said.
“Minister Don’s life was a testament to sacrifice, faith, and unwavering dedication to a cause greater than himself. A devoted father, grandfather, businessman, and servant of the Nation of Islam, he worked tirelessly with his wife to uplift his family, community, and Nation.
His deep faith, inspired by the Teachings of the Honorable Elijah Muhammad, guided his character and actions, strengthening his commitment to service and integrity.
“Minister Don’s legacy serves as a call to action for those he inspired, urging us to carry forward his faith, principles, and dedication to liberation. A life well-lived and a race well-run, he rests in the eternal peace of Allah, leaving behind an enduring torch for others to bear,” Student Minister Ishmael Muhammad concluded.
He was a spiritual guide, a mentor, a family man, and a pillar of the Boston community. Known for his wisdom, strength, and ability to inspire, Minister Don was often referred to as the “Don of the ministry class.” His presence, both commanding and compassionate, left an indelible mark on everyone who had the privilege to know him.
Born in Beckley, West Virginia, Minister Don moved to Boston at the age of 17 where he faced the challenges and opportunities of urban life. He was introduced to the Teachings of the Honorable Elijah Muhammad, which ignited a transformation that would define his life.
In an April 2, 1965, edition of Muhammad Speaks, Min. Don, who was then known as Bro. Don X Straughter shared his testimony in the section, “What Islam Has Done For Me,” in the article titled, “Boston Businessman Made Greatest Gains With Islam.” He wrote about his first visit to Temple No. 11 where he heard the Teachings from Minister Farrakhan, then known as Minister Louis X.
“About eight years ago, on a Sunday afternoon, I was first invited to attend Muhammad’s Mosque of Islam. I had no knowledge of where I was going or what I was about to hear. I had a fairly good education.
I had attended West Virginia State College and Northeastern University of Boston, Mass. However, I was stunned at the wisdom taught by Minister Louis X at Boston’s Mosque No. 11,” he wrote in Muhammad Speaks.
Embracing the faith with discipline and dedication, Minister Don rose in the ranks of the Nation of Islam, known for his integrity, resilience, and unwavering commitment to justice and equality.
Minister Don’s leadership was marked by his ability to unite and uplift those around him. From spearheading community initiatives to mentoring young men and women, his impact was felt far beyond the walls of Mosque No. 11. During the late 1970s, under the guidance of the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan, Minister Don played a pivotal role in rebuilding the Nation of Islam in Boston, laying a foundation that endures to this day.
A legacy of community impact
Minister Don’s devotion extended far beyond his faith-based work. He was deeply committed to his community, often leading efforts to combat drugs, support local businesses, and promote self-reliance among Black residents of Boston as taught by the Honorable Elijah Muhammad. He worked to rebuild communities through unity and self-determination.
Brother Elijah Muhammad of Mosque No. 11 called him “a pillar of the faith community in Boston,” lauding his leadership and mentorship. Barry Lawton, a former government official, highlighted Minister Don’s positivity and willingness to uplift everyone he encountered, saying, “He didn’t just represent everyone, but he loved and uplifted those he represented.”
For Boston resident Anthony Smith, Minister Don’s wisdom and compassion stood out the most. “His legacy will live on,” he said.
Minister Don Muhammad was honored with citations from both the City of Boston and the State of Massachusetts, a testament to his profound impact on the community. To further commemorate his legacy, Boston Mayor Michelle Wu announced that Boston City Hall was illuminated in blue—a solemn and heartfelt tribute to his memory and enduring contributions.
Minister Don Muhammad is predeceased by his wife Shirley, his parents James and Sarah, his brothers Justice Muhammad, Warren C. Straughter, James A. Straughter, sisters Marvel Abayomi-Cole, Quantina Peck, Orphus Taylor, Barbara Tollerson, Audrey Straughter, Melisa Straughter, Gladys Straughter and his grandson Jake Straughter.
Minister Don Muhammad is survived by his five children Yvette, Cheryl, Don Jr., Shirley, and Brian. He is also survived by 20 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.
The service concluded with a recessional ending a poignant tribute to a man who spent his life serving and lifting others.
