Minister James Muhammad

James Conner, later known as Minister James Muhammad, was born on June 26, 1965, in Rochester, New York to Yvonne Conner. The second youngest of seven siblings, James grew up in a loving, close-knit family. He was a devoted father, husband, mentor, and man of deep faith who lived a life marked by service, compassion, and spiritual commitment.
He was educated in the Brighton School District, where he developed a love for learning and a passion for athletics. A talented athlete, he played both basketball and baseball throughout his high school years and enjoyed aerobic exercise and running throughout his life. After graduating from high school in 1983, James enlisted in the United States Navy, serving honorably in Philadelphia, PA. While enlisted, he also worked as an emergency medical technician and pursued education at the Community College of Philadelphia. This period of service helped shape the principles of structure, purpose, and perseverance that defined his life.
Following his honorable service in the Navy, James returned home to Rochester, where he pursued his growing interest in medicine as a nursing assistant at the University of Rochester Medical Center. Later, he served as an assistant teacher in Rochester's public schools, most notably School No. 2, where he uplifted students not only through academics, but through acts of care-treating them to dinner, haircuts, and providing encouragement and mentorship.
A dedicated volunteer, James offered his time and heart to many causes, including the Special Olympics, where he supported athletes with special needs with warmth and devotion.
On July 1, 1988, James underwent a profound spiritual transformation after hearing the voice of the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan. That day, he accepted Islam and became Brother James Muhammad, committing his life to faith, family, and community. On February 18, 1989, he married Dawn, his beloved wife and partner in faith, with whom he built a home rooted in love and divine guidance. Several years later, he became minister of the local Muhammad Study Group in Rochester. Brother James also served as a Nation of Islam Chaplain within the New York State Department of Corrections- for more than 25 years, he mentored and ministered countless inmates, providing spiritual guidance, accountability, and hope.
He was a proud and devoted father to nine children: Tyrell, Malika, Saadiq, James, Asad, Kareema, Raheema, Abdul, and Ammaarah. His children were the center of his life, and he poured his wisdom, love, and belief into each of them.
In one especially tender moment, he shared a passage from the Holy Quran (Surah Maryam, 19:12-15) to express the hopes he held for all his children: "O John take hold of the book with strength. And We granted him wisdom while yet a child- and tenderness from Us, and purity: And he was dutiful to his parents, and not arrogant or rebellious. And peace be upon him the day he was born, the day he dies, and the day he is raised to life."
Brother James found deep joy in his roots. He loved his hometown of Rochester-its festivals, the shores of Lake Ontario and Cayuga Lake, backyard barbecues, and the spirit of community. He also loved attending Saviours' Day in Chicago, IL with fellow believers in the Nation of Islam; he looked forward to the gathering every year.
As President of the Jefferson Avenue Business Association, Brother James was a passionate advocate for community development. Under his leadership, the association grew by 30 percent and launched initiatives such as Business Day, National Night Out, Cut the Violence, and the African American Unity Festival. His vision also included creating the Supreme Business Youth Academy, designed to empower young people with entrepreneurial tools and purpose.
His impact as a father and mentor was publicly recognized by Graves Institutional Christian Methodist Episcopal Church, which honored him with the "Real Fathers - Real Men Award" for his role in shaping future generations.
Brother James Muhammad's life was a profound testament to faith, leadership, and service. He met life's challenges with courage, carried his responsibilities with dignity, and walked humbly in truth.
James leaves behind a legacy of love, wisdom, and unwavering commitment. He is predeceased by his mother, Yvonne Conner Anderson, and two sisters, Deborah Conner and Elizabeth Conner. He is survived by his wife, Dawn; his children Tyrell, Malika, Saadiq, James, Asad, Kareema, Raheema, Abdul, and Ammarah; his three sisters Brenda Evans, Erline Clay, Deanna Durden; his brothers Darryle Conner and James Garret; his daughter-in-law Kierra and son-in-law Sergio; his seven grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, and countless other lives that he touched
As Dr. Martin Luther King Jr once said: "The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy."
Brother James stood tall in challenge, in faith and in love-leaving behind a legacy of strength, compassion, and unwavering service.