Abdullah Shabazz was born Theopholis Lewis on July 9, 1940, to Ola Mae Lewis. He heard the teachings of The Most Honorable Elijah Muhammad in his early twenties, and became a registered member of the Nation of Islam in 1964 as Bro. Theopholis X at the age of 23. He soon developed as a staunch defender of the teachings and way of life of his beloved Nation.
In 1967, while selling the Muhammad Speaks newspaper (now known as The Final Call) he was attacked by the Nebraska police. During the attack, the police officer was shot, and Bro. Theopholis was arrested, along with two other F.O.I. During his arraignment, Bro. Theopholis was once again attacked in the courtroom, where he was shot twice by the Nebraska police. On hearing of what happened, The Most Honorable Elijah Muhammad sent Secretary John Ali, with New York Attorney Jacko, to bail Bro. Theopholis out with a $25,000 cash bond. Shortly thereafter, Bro. Theopholis was brought to Chicago where he became part of The Most Honorable Elijah Muhammad’s Honor Guard.
After serving his time, Bro. Theopholis returned to California as a member of Muhammad’s Temple No. 8 in San Diego. He was renowned and revered for his courage and dedicated service, and was admired for his strict adherence to the dietary laws as taught by The Most Honorable Elijah Muhammad in “How To Eat To Live”, Books 1 and 2. Bro. Theopholis continued his education, eventually earning his Masters Degree in African Studies. He taught in the San Diego Community College School District for several years. Under the leadership of the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan, Bro. Theopholis received the last name Muhammad in 1996. He subsequently exercised his prerogative to select a Holy Name of his choosing and became known as Abdullah Shabazz in later years.
Well known for decades for his charitable generosity and his unwavering commitment to the lifestyle of a Muslim follower of The Most Honorable Elijah Muhammad and the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan, Bro. Abdullah was an unparalleled example of selfless service and lifelong devotion.
Bro. Adullah passed on January 17, 2024.
He was preceded in death by his mother Ola Mae Lewis.
He is survived by his brother John Colquitt and a host of relatives.
May he be granted the very best of Allah/God’s rewards.
