Rashid Ahmad

Rashid was born December 23, 1926, the son of Clarence and Lela Mae Oliver, where he was raised in the Black Bottom section of Detroit, Michigan. A loving family, that at one point welcomed Tuskegee Airman Robert (Bob) O'Neil into their home to live with them for a short stay. As a teen, Rashid admired him and later would often tell us what a great storyteller Bob was. After graduating from Cass Technical High School Rashid briefly attended Wayne State University, where his desire was to become a doctor. In 1946 Rashid enlisted in the United States Army and served in Guam, Hawaii and then in Germany, later receiving an honorable discharge.

After serving, he moved to New York City in the 1950s where he settled in Harlem, his new home. He worked for Polygram Records until 1977 when he joined partnership with his best friend Ismail Shamsideen to form their own company, Development Outreach, Inc. where it still thrives today, thanks to Rashid's efforts and dedication.

In 1982 Rashid met Ande, the love of his life. In 1986 they married, and together, enjoyed life to the fullest. Throughout their marriage they had a beautiful bond and were inseparable.

Rashid loved to read to expand his knowledge and had a passion for writing. He would often immerse himself in music where he took pleasure in listening to jazz, classical, opera, and even some R&B. He was a quintessential New Yorker taking pride in the New York Yankees and Knicks. He took pleasure in taking walks and enjoying time in the park near his home, a life well lived.

Rashid was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Lela Mae Oliver and daughter, Muna Ahmad. He is survived by his loving wife Ande, Stepdaughter Marcy, her husband Merecco Sr., and grandsons; Merecco Jr. and Matthew Turner.