Riad Elsolh Hamad

I had the absolute pleasure of having this amazing human as a teacher when I attended Clint Small Middle School many many years ago. Talk about a one-of-a-kind man! He always put a smile on my face and made me feel heard. I received an olive dove from him which is something I cherish till this day and will forever. I don't think I ever had a better computer teacher in my years of education because I think of him so much when I sit in front of a computer. I miss his laugh and his silly car...

I just learned about Riad's death in April, 2009. I am very sad. I came to know of Riad after reading about the Palestinian Children's Welfare Fund, so I sent a small donation.

For years I have empathized with the plight of the Palestinians. I was glad to learn that Riad Hamad was active in helping the Palestinians. He was a good example in showing love to those who are in distress. He lived by the Golden Rule, "do unto others as you want them to do to you". May God remember...

I think about Riad Hamad every day and I am so sorry for his family and friends as his loss is felt my many people. My son came home from school on the first day he met Mr. Hamad and told us all sorts of things he had learned about his life and his work and his family. I couldn't wait to meet this amazing man. Not only was he a great teacher to my son, he was a confidant and a supporter. My son dealt with some anti semitism at school and who do you think of all the people consoled him? Mr....

Marhaba Riad... with your enormous heart and your gentle soul you were a giant. I will remember your smiles, your energy, your sense of humor, and most of all your boundless love for your family, your friends, and for all the children. What will they, and we, do without you, Riad?

I knew Riad for several years through the work he did with PCWF. He used to attend our annual event Women & Fair Trade where he, together with other women's cooperatives, sold the crafts to benefit children in Palestine. Riad's courage and free spirit will stay forever in my heart. May he be in peace now.

My heart is broken... we are all poorer for your leaving. But I thank you, Riad, for during your time on earth you worked with great passion for justice, and you cared as few people do for children everywhere. Stay well, you won't be forgotten.

"To live on in hearts left behind is not to die."

While I only had the pleasure of meeting and getting to know Riad and Diana this year, I feel as though our souls have known each other for many lifetimes. Diana was a classmate of my late husband Imad at the American University of Beirut. Even though they hadn’t seen each other in many years, when Diana learned of Imad’s death, she reached out to me. In spending time with Diana and Riad, I was impressed by the depth of Riad’s love...

Riad was a dear friend whom I worked closely with on PCWF projects for 5+ years. He was warm and funny and driven and obsessed with justice and compassion for other human beings in a very rare way. I've never met anyone with such an amazing mind and ability to turn huge visions into reality. He did this with incredible creativity, energy and perserverance. Riad was my conscience and motivator..whenever I was tired or frustrated or ready to give up, he was there pushing and energizing and...

Mr. Hamad touched the life of our daughter. He was a unique man who taught through example. Mr. Hamad taught more than keyboarding. He taught students to think and question. He showed them how to express their opinions and respect and tolerate different opinions. He will be missed but his lessons are forever remembered. His family is in our prayers.