A page dedicated to sharing Charlotte-Mecklenburg County Interfaith News 

On the blessed day of April 13, 1947, Imam Khalil A. Akbar was born in Mitchell, GA, to his parents, Ila Mae Braddy and Buster Zimmerman. He began his educational journey at Mount Olive Elementary School in Warthen, GA, and

continued through TJ Elder Elementary and High School in Sandersville, GA, where the high school experience started in the 5th grade back then. In 1961, he moved with his family to Harrisburg, PA, where he attended John Edison Junior High School and graduated from John Harris High School in 1967. Later pursuing

his academic aspirations, he enrolled at Lincoln University of Pennsylvania, earning a Master’s Degree in Human Services in 1986.

 

Imam Khalil embodied the essence of love, kindness, and dedication throughout his life, serving as a beacon of hope and compassion for those around him. From 1988 until his death, he was the Resident Imam of Masjid Ash Shaheed in Charlotte, NC, where his leadership and gentle spirit inspired countless individuals.

Embracing the teachings of the Honorable Elijah Mohammad in 1968, he gracefully transitioned to orthodox Al-Islam under the guidance of Imam W. D. Mohammed in 1975. His life was a testament to the principles of servant leadership, and he was admired, emulated, and dearly loved by many.

 

In his professional journey, Imam Khalil served as a Clinical Chaplain for the North Carolina Department of Public Safety (formerly the Department ofCorrections) for 26 years, where he not only offered his dedicated service but

extended his generous spirit to those in need. Even after retirement, he continued to bless others as an Adjunct Chaplain at Johnson C. Smith University.

 

A devoted family man, Imam Khalil shared a beautiful 55-year marriage with his loving wife, Darlene Annette Akbar, together raising seven daughters who were the pride and joy of his life. His legacy of love and family values continues to shine through them. He leaves behind his cherished wife, Darlene, and his beloved daughters: Kimberly Akbar (Maurice), Khalidah Akbar, Shariah Akbar Stevenson (Jimmie), Tynetta Akbar Lindsay (Jimmie), Badia Akbar Curry (Dupree), Aneesah Akbar, and Raja Akbar. Imam Khalil also treasured his grandchildren: Safiyyah Baldwin, Carl Baldwin, Anwar Baldwin, Laila Baldwin, Jamal Brady (Nadia), Khadijah Akbar, Demarcus Akbar Cathey, Aliyah Akbar Cathey, Malcolm Brown, Jalil Akbar (Charae), Sabriyah Akbar, Dejon Akbar Stevenson (Breyona), Malikah

Akbar, Elijah Akbar, Ahmari Akbar, Aiyanah Akbar, and 13 great-grandchildren,all of whom carry forward his legacy of love.

 

He was preceded in death by his beloved mother Ila Mae Braddy, father Buster Zimmerman, brothers Curtis Braddy and AJ Braddy, and sister Rochelle Hall.

Imam Khalil also leaves behind his brother Dorris Brady (Mary), sisters Virginia Jenkins, Gloryous Riddle, Curlene DeVan (Walter), and Joyce Pitts (Stanley), as well as brothers-in-law Freddie Hall and Howard Johnson; sisters-in-law Judith Mitchell, Deborah Johnson, Lisa Barksdale (Wayne), and a multitude of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, the Masjid Ash-Shaheed community, and all whose lives he profoundly touched.

 

Imam Khalil A. Akbar’s life was defined by his unwavering love, kindness, and generosity. He will be deeply missed by everyone who had the privilege ofknowing him, as they cherish the beautiful memories he created and the impactful

legacy he leaves behind.