Donell Ash-Shaheed

Donell Ash-Shaheed was born on June 5, 1943, in Bluffton, Georgia, to the late R. T. and the late Toye Humphrey Wright.  He received his education from Washington High School in Early County, Georgia.  After graduation, he moved to Cleveland, Ohio.  Donell worked at Cuyahoga Metropolitan Housing Authority for 14 years.  He then entered the construction field where he worked for his brother Sam at Wright Construction.  He also worked for and retired from Nerone & Sons.  After his retirement, he moved back to Early County to live closer to his mother.

“Don”, as he was affectionately called, loved people and enjoyed being the center of attention.  There was never a dull moment when he was around, and his gift was to keep everyone laughing and a smile on their faces.  He also enjoyed landscaping, reading, and antique cars.  He loved to ride and was always on the go.

After a lengthy illness, Donell went home to be with THE LORD at the age of 79.  He was preceded in death by his son, Donell Jamal; brothers:  Sam Wright, Sylvester Wright, and Milton Wright; sister, Vadis Spann; and son-in-law, Mark Johnson.

He leaves to cherish his memories his devoted wife of 46 years, Najiyyah; children:  Aneesha Johnson, Karim Malone, and Rashida Ash-Shaheed Walker (Willie); grandchildren:  La’Niyah Walker, Ja’Ziyah Graham, and Jordan Walker; sisters:  Lois Pittmon, Gladys Lewis, Sumayah Ali, and Bertha Harris (Donald); uncle, Charlie Carr; many nieces and nephews; and a host of other relatives and friends. 

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