Relatives of Rahaman Ali need the community’s help to give him a proper funeral and burial

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By Sherlene Shanklin

I’ve just learned that the family of Rahaman Ali is needing some assistance. A GoFundMe page was created to help with the funeral and burial of Ali. Jan Waddell, the grandson of attorney Jan Waddell Sr. put out a heartfelt message. He says “I’m reaching out to share a cause that needs immediate attention. Rahman Ali, the brother of Muhammad Ali, has passed away, and his family is facing a difficult situation. They are in urgent need of funds to give Rahman a proper funeral and burial. It’s heartbreaking to know that they currently lack the resources to cover these essential costs.”

Waddell goes on to say, “Rahman was a kind-hearted person who positively impacted many lives. He was more than just Muhammad Ali’s brother; he was a cherished figure in his community, always spreading kindness and support. It’s truly disheartening that the estate and Muhammad’s widow have chosen not to provide assistance during this time.”


Waddell says if you can, please consider donating to help ensure that Rahman is laid to rest with the dignity he deserves. Every contribution counts, no matter how small. Thank you for your support during this difficult time.

Waddell Sr. is a cousin of the Ali brothers. He was a pallbearer for Muhammad Ali’s funeral in 2016.

Here’s the link to the GoFundMe https://gofund.me/516002ec

Rahaman Ali’s Janazah service announced

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By Sherlene Shanklin

The family of Rahman Ali would like to sincerely thank everyone for the kind words, calls, and messages shared following his passing on August 1, 2025. Your outpouring of love and support has brought great comfort during this difficult time. In accordance with Rahaman’s wishes, a  private Janazah service will be held on Saturday, August 16, 2025.

A Janazah service refers to a funeral service for an individual of Muslim faith. It’s a ceremony that’s filled with prayers, the washing and shrouding of the body and then the burial. This is an Islamic tradition.

Plans for a public celebration of life will be shared once finalized.

Rahaman Ali, younger brother of Muhammad Ali, dies at 82

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By Sherlene Shanklin

I have been covering the Clay and Ali family for the majority of my 35-year media career because I’m also a Louisville, KY native. So, when I started getting unconfirmed calls I needed to wait and make sure they were indeed correct.

As I’m heading to bed, I get the sad news that Rahaman Ali, the younger brother of Muhammad Ali has passed away.

Rahaman was born on July 18,1943 as Rudolph Arnett Clay to Cassius Marcellus Clay Sr. and Odessa Grady Clay. Rahaman followed in his brother’s boxing footsteps with a professional boxing career from 1964 to 1972.

I have a quote from Devone Holt, President and CEO of the Muhammad Ali Center that I want to share. Holt says “You can’t tell Muhammad’s story without mentioning Rahaman,” He adds, “He was one of the most constant sources of support for Muhammad during this career and their relationship was a true example of what it means to be ‘my brother’s keeper.’

I will be adding additional stories about the life and legacy of Rahaman Ali in the coming days.

Funeral arrangements are pending at this time.

Photos: “Courtesy of Muhammad Ali Center Digital Museum”

WHITNEY M. YOUNG SCHOLARS TO PRESENT DIGITAL BUSINESS CONCEPTS AT THE UNIVERSITY OF LOUISVILLE

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Louisville, KY— Lincoln Foundation, in partnership with the University of Louisville, will host the 4th Annual Digital Transformation Academy, a forward-thinking initiative designed to prepare students for leadership in a technology-driven world. The event will take place on Friday, August 1, 2025, from
8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. in the Karp Auditorium, Thornton’s Academic Center of
Excellence at L & N Cardinal Stadium.

Tenth and 11th-grade Whitney M. YOUNG Scholars will showcase original digital
business concepts developed during the academy. These presentations reflect the
students’ growing expertise in data analytics, digital strategy, and innovation—skills
that are increasingly vital in today’s business landscape.

In addition to their presentations, scholars may earn industry-recognized credentials,
including a Google Analytics Badge, which they can proudly include on their
resumes and college applications.

“The Digital Transformation Academy is more than a summer program—it’s a
launchpad for future leaders,” said Marshall Bradley, President of Lincoln Foundation.
“Our scholars are gaining real-world experience and demonstrating how young
minds can shape the future of business and technology.”

The event is open to invited guests, educators, and community leaders who wish to
support and celebrate the achievements of these promising students.


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