Yusuf Abdul Ali

Yusuf Abdul-Ali was born Curtis Leroy Jones on November 19, 1949, in Cleveland, Ohio, to the late Isabell Jones and Matthew Jones. He was the youngest of three siblings and was preceded in death by his brother James Jones and sister Carolyn Jones.

Yusuf was educated in the Cleveland Public School system and graduated from John Adams High School in 1969. That same year, he married his high school sweetheart, Elizabeth (Black) Ali, in July 1969. Together, they built a beautiful life and home in Oakwood Village, where they lived for over 50 years, surrounded by love, faith, and family.

He later attended the Westside Institute of Technology, where he developed the skills that led to a successful career with the Cuyahoga Metropolitan Housing Authority (CMHA). He served faithfully as a stationary engineer until his retirement in 2011.

In 1975, he embraced the faith of Islam and took the name Yusuf Abdul-Ali, dedicating his life to spiritual growth, community service, and leadership. His faith became his guiding light, shaping his mission to uplift others and promote unity and understanding.

Yusuf was elected Imam of Masjid Al-Warith Deen, where he provided years of spiritual leadership, guidance, and support to his congregation and the greater Cleveland community. His wisdom, kindness, and lifelong devotion to serving others left a lasting impact on all who knew him.

He was a proud and loving father to his children Craig (Dawn) Ali, Shaun Ali (Sue Kalbrunner), and Naimah (Jason) Gooden, and cherished his nine grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. He was deeply devoted to his family, his community, and to living a life of faith, purpose, and humility.

Imam Yusuf Abdul-Ali will be remembered for his dedication to truth and service, and his unwavering belief in the power of faith. His legacy of love, leadership, and devotion will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know him.

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