Dr Ahmad Sakr Passes away, Death Widely Mourned

The Islamic Shura Council joins Muslims all over the world in mourning the loss of Dr Ahmad Sakr, who returned to his Lord earlier this evening (November 23), says a Shura message. Paying tributes to the late Dr Sakr the message adds: “He gave his whole life to the community, may Allah shower him with His mercy and give sabr jameel, the best of patience, to his grieving family. We ask that you remember him and his family in your prayers.”
CAIR: The board and staff of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) have offered sincere condolences on the passing of Dr Ahmad Sakr. In a statement, CAIR National Executive Director Nihad Awad said: “To God we belong and to Him is our return. Very few people in our community have left a legacy comparable to that of Dr Sakr. His intellectual legacy will last for generations to come. We offer sincere and heartfelt condolence to his family and loved ones.
“Through his dedicated friendly, humble and practical efforts, he helped support the establishment of hundreds of mosques, schools and organizations that continue to serve millions of American Muslims.
"Dr Sakr served the American Muslim community since his days as a founding member of the Muslim Student Association. His 40 years of service is a testament to his sacrifice and dedication to the betterment of our community. We ask Allah to bless Dr Sakr with the highest levels of paradise and grant his family and his loved ones patience.”
“My very first few English sermons in 1989 as a student in Austin were read from his books,” said CAIR-LA Executive Director Hussam Ayloush. “At our very first CAIR-LA banquet in 1996, Dr Sakr volunteered and stood to encourage the attendees to support CAIR-LA’s new office in Southern California. No words can describe how much we owe him. We can only pray that Allah accept from him all his good deeds.”
The funeral prayer for Dr Sakr was held on November 24 at the Islamic Center of San Gabriel Valley and he was buried in the La Verne Cemetery. May his soul rest in peace. (Ameen)