Sa'Ad El-Amin Obituary
Mr. Sa'ad El-Amin Sr., of Youngtown, Ohio, passed away on Saturday, February 1, 2025. Sa'ad was born July 4, 1936, in Shelby Alabama to Mack Swain and Catherine King. He attended Jefferson County Schools, graduating in 1955 from Rosedale High School in Birmingham, Alabama. Sa'ad lived a life marked by hard work, dedication, and love.
Upon graduating Sa'ad embarked upon a journey that led him to the state of Ohio. Sa'ad surrendered his birth name of Luther Swain when he embraced his Islamic faith, thereby changing his name and destiny upon this awakening. Sa'ad was a member of the Youngstown Masjid where he served as the Imam for nearly 15 years.
Sa'ad was dedicated to lifelong learning and self-improvement, embodying a spirit of curiosity that led him to pursue various interests throughout his life, including attending aviation school to learn to pilot planes. His commitment to hard work and professionalism set a standard that many admired and aspired to emulate.
His commitment to excellence was evident in his distinguished career at General Motors, where he devoted 30 years of service before retiring in 1996. An entrepreneur at heart, Sa'ad also founded Sa'ad El-Amin Enterprises, reflecting his passion for innovation and self-empowerment.
Sa'ad's passions extended beyond his professional life. He was an avid fisherman, a lover of travel, and an enthusiastic reader. His culinary skills were exceptional and was a phenomenal cook. Known for his immaculate dressing and self-taught craftsmanship, Sa'ad embodied style and creativity in all that he did.
Sa'ad was a devoted family man, known for his unwavering kindness, dependability, and support. He was the epitome of each role he embraced as a husband, father, grandfather and friend. Moreover, Sa'ad was a mentor to many, generously sharing his reflection, wisdom, and knowledge with those around him.
His greatest joy in life came from the times shared with Ruby El-Amin, his cherished wife of fifty years. From that union, they nurtured with love five adoring children Sharia (Charles Cross Sr.) El-Amin, Sa'ad El-Amin Jr., Salimah El-Amin, Ngina El-Amin, and Idris (Crystal) El-Amin.
Sa'ad's legacy will be sustained by his nine grandchildren Charles Cross Jr., Ci'Asha Cross, Tiaunnah El-Amin, Maiya Hill, Sa'ad El-Amin III, Cyra Cross, Ziare El-Amin, Aaliyah Jackson, and Ceraya Cross.
Precious memories will be embraced by his aunt Gladys Perkins, mother-in-law Lucille Butler and a score of family and friends who will remember the indelible mark on their lives.
Sa'ad was preceded in death by his parents Mack Swain and Catherine King, stepfather Robert King, and sister Doris Parker.
As we reflect on Sa'ad's life, let us carry forward his legacy of learning, care, and perseverance, keeping him forever in our hearts. In his passing, Sa'ad leaves behind a tapestry woven with threads of perseverance, kindness, and love.
Family and friends are invited to honor Sa'ad's remarkable life and contributions during a graveside service to be held at Belmont Park Cemetery, 3346 Belmont Ave, Youngstown, OH 44505, on Wednesday February 5, 2025, at 1:00 PM. This will be a time for prayerful reflection, remembrance, and celebration of a life lived with purpose and integrity. His memory will continue to live on in the hearts of those who loved him dearly.
At this time of intimate need and personal loss, the beloved family of Sa'ad El-Amin, Sr. elected to entrust the Ministry of Comfort & Care, along with Transitional After-Care Arrangements to the J. E. Washington Funeral Services, 2234 Glenwood Ave., Youngstown OH 330.782.8500.
Published by Mahoning Matters on Apr. 3, 2025.