Neamat Dhaha

We're looking to raise some money for our much loved and endlessly positive colleague Marcel to help pay for some funeral related expenses such as a headstone and other religious items for our friend.

On March 3rd, 2025, heaven gained another angel in Neamat Dhaha. She was the loving (grand)Mother of Marcel Dhaha. A much beloved mother figure for Marcel, she was known to be a giver. She loved and cared for Marcel, made lunches for him and his teachers growing up and was always looking for ways to be kind and generous to those around her. In her final years Marcel cared for her as she battled with Alzheimer's and made sure she was always comfortable and well loved. They enjoyed many wonderful meals together, whenever either of them went out with friends they made sure to bring the other meals.

Marcel is a beloved colleague and kind hearted as his mum taught him to be. Always willing to grab coffee and introduce you to new and delicious foods.

Any and all help is appreciated and will be used to help pay for funeral expenses and other related fees associated with dealing with the estate and time off work. Anything is much appreciated.

In the name of God, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful

Today, we gather to bid farewell to our mother and grandmother, Umm Ali.

Born in 1940, she was forced at the age of sixteen to marry a divorced soldier sixteen years her senior. Despite the circumstances, he carried her with love and care. Umm Ali gave birth to eight children — five sons and three daughters.

She devoted her life to her children, caring for everyone with her boundless love.

Her children grew up surrounded by family. Her mother, Teta Fatima, was a wellspring of love and kindness — and the best cook on earth. (The dry mujaddara she made was unmatched and incredibly delicious.)

Our mother inherited this talent from Teta Fatima, especially her "lubia b'zeit" (green beans in olive oil). I still eat lubia b'zeit at least twice a week. She learned the art of delicious cooking from her mother and grandmother.

When the civil war broke out in 1975, life changed drastically. Our father left the house, and chaos consumed everything. After that, her life became one of struggle and hardship — all to protect her family.

Our mother was like a lioness fiercely guarding her cubs. The loss of our brother Adel aged her prematurely, and when our youngest brother, Issam — our shining diamond — fell ill, she spent sleepless nights and endless efforts trying to save him. When he passed away young, the pain left a permanent scar on her soul and ours.

She sacrificed everything to ensure her children survived. She endured a turbulent life, suffering endlessly until her children grew strong and independent enough to fly on their own.

Our words to you, our mother and grandmother:

Today, we gather to honor the life of a remarkable woman — our beloved mother, who was a source of unconditional love, tenderness, and unbreakable strength. She was a devoted mother, a loyal friend, and a wise teacher..

Mother, you taught me the meaning of life. You showed me how mercy and strength could coexist. You live in our hearts with an inexhaustible love, and your memory will remain with us forever.

Although we grieve deeply for your loss, your love will stay with us until the end of our days. Your body may have departed, but your gentle soul will continue to light our paths.

Rest in peace, dear mother. You will always be in our hearts and prayers. We will never forget you.

May God bless your soul.