Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Rashid Malik Obituary
Tallahassee - Dr. Rashid A. Malik, a devoted husband and a close friend to many, passed away peacefully in the early hours on Saturday, April 18, 2020 in his sleep at the age of 90 years. Dr. Malik will be remembered by his loving wife Shamuna Malik of 53 years, nephews, nieces, grand-nephews, grand-nieces, extended family and friends all over the world.
Dr. Rashid A. Malik was born to Malik Amir Bakhsh and Hamida Begum on January 21st, 1930 in Lahore, Pakistan. Dr. Malik was very close to siblings and was preceded in death by his loving parents, brothers Malik Mubarak, Bashir A. Malik, Rafique A. Malik and sister Azra Butt.
Dr. Rashid A. Malik received his Master (MS) in Geography from University of Chicago, Illinois and followed by Doctorate (Ph. D) in Geography from Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana in 1963. Dr. Malik's teaching career spanned over 50 years across two continents. With his cross cultural educational background, he diffused this information into his class presentations. His range as a geographer was extensive, covering the Middle East, Africa and U.S. from physical, cultural, economic and political perspectives at the following prestigious institutions of higher education such as Lawrence College, Murree, Pakistan, University of Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan followed by University of Chicago, University of Idaho, Florida State University, Auburn University and eventually retiring from Florida Agriculture and Mechanical University. Dr. Malik also served at the Florida Board of Regents as education policy consultant.
Dr. Rashid A. Malik was an avid traveler and took multiple journeys by ship across the Atlantic and land route to Pakistan. He enjoyed playing Cricket and tennis. He was selected in Pakistan Cricket team and played his first match in England with victory before coming to U.S. to pursue his graduate degree with Ford Foundation Scholarship as a first Pakistani recipient. Funeral services for Dr. Rashid A. Malik were held at 5:30pm, April 18th, 2020 with the Islamic burial tradition, at Culley's MeadowWood Cemetery located at 700 Timberlane Road in Tallahassee, Florida.
His wife would like to thank Consulate Rehab. Center and Covenant Hospice, their directors, nurses and staff for their continued care, patience and understanding for her husband. Also she would like to thank Mr. Salah of Islamic Center of Tallahassee, and Culley's MeadowWood for such a seamless burial during this critical time.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Rashid Malik
Sponsored by the Tallahassee Democrat.
Mahmood Haq
May 7, 2023
May Allah continue to bless Uncle Malik, forgive his sins and increase his ranks in the akhiraa.
Nadeem Aslam Butt
May 2, 2023
It has been more than three years and there are still times when I fondly recall mamojan's memory. He was alway there for Humayun and I while we were studying in USA. Remember the delicious food, freshly made bread made by Shamuna mamijan, steak outs and many more activities we used to have together. He had a great relationship with my father and my mother (his sister). Insha'Allah we will all meet again.
Fawzia Khan
May 5, 2022
We miss you Rashid Bhai. You were a great friend. May God bless you and keep you in his grace.
Mahmood Haq
May 3, 2022
We dearly miss Uncle Malik. May Allah increase his darajaat in the hereafter and make his life in grave easy.
Bawa Satinder Singh
July 23, 2021
We were from two different religions, two different countries, Rashid and I, but that did not keep us from being friends. For we were both Panjabis. We shared a common culture, spoke the same languages, knew the same jokes.
This friendshiip began in the mid 1960s when we both came to Tallahassee to teach at Florida State University. The following story is probably the best example of that relationship. We had been invited to a dinner party by a colleague of mine. My wife Karrie had gone ahead as I had to teach a late class. As the group gathered, the talk centered around the 1971 war between India and Pakistan which had just begun that day. Everyone was worried because both Rashid and I had been invited to that dinner, and they wondered how to handle the situation. What a relief it must have been to see the two of us walk in together, for Rashid had picked me up after our classes. Not even a war could destroy our friendship, a friendship that lasted over fifty years.
Babar Ahmed
February 13, 2021
Uncle Malik will be deeply missed; he has had a profound impact on all of our lives. Though I never had the honor to have him as a professor, he would always have something to teach with his unforgettable story-telling abilities. From performing at their Golden Jubilee celebration to visiting uncle Malik at the facility, it was always a pleasure to be around him. Though in his later years he had difficulty with his memory, visits from Talha brought him so much joy. With a smile reaching ear to ear, he would whistle at Talha to play with him.
Uncle Malik was a leader in our community as well. Like our family at one point and dozens of others, Uncle Malik and aunty Shamuna welcomed with open arms and warm hearts those who sought to make Tallahassee their home and be a part of our beloved community. Uncle Malik will be missed by so many, as his personality was so warm and inviting. Often discussing shared experiences of old Lahore, my father and uncle Malik shared a friendship that started decades ago. Uncle Malik was good friends with Abu as well; they would never miss a chance to catch up, joke around, share stories and discuss current events. Uncle Malik loved puhpo’s cooking, as he enjoyed the taste of traditional styles of dishes.
Uncle Rashid Malik was a pillar in our community, who will be deeply missed. We are lucky to share a moment with such a unique, passionate, and joyful individual. May Allah bless him and grant him Jannatul Ferdous. Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un.
Hatim with Malik Shahab
Abdul Hatim
November 11, 2020
May Allah grant Malik Shahab Jannatul Ferdous. There is no words enough to condone such a precious loss. 1988 I met Malik Shahab first time in FSU campus and I was amazed by his sophisticated personality immediately. Since then our families remain very close friends and even closer when Malik Shahab and Shamona became our son's god parents. Company of Malik Shahab has been always amazing. He was a man with impressive depth of knowledge on various subject. I always learned something from him. He was a passionate light classical music lover and we enjoyed music together in different occasions. Whenever I think of Malik Shahab I visulize his face with big smile and that I am going to remember rest of my life.
May Allah's special blessing shower upon Malik Shahab in Jannah.
Dr. Abdul Hatim
richard law
July 16, 2020
Dr. Malik was a very kind and intelligent man. As he and his wife, Shamuna, were clients of my CPA firm for many years, I always enjoyed listening to him and sharing our many common thoughts and opinions about the world and our various cultures. Richard Law, CPA, Tallahassee Florida
Dr. Athar Mahboob
June 17, 2020
Uncle Rashid Malik was always a jolly person with a sense of humor. Our family has nearly 40 years of relations with Uncle Rashid Malik and Aunty Shamuna. Uncle Rashid Malik was always so loving and engaging. Despite his tremendous seniority he never acted in a dominating way. He was always affectionate, lively and gentle during after meal discussions in community events. Uncle Rashid Malik was a passionate classical and folk music lover. He always shared his observations and life experiences to enlighten us.
Uncle Rashid Malik lived a full life. He has left lasting and fond memories with us. We pray for elevation of his status in the hereafter.
Zishan Khan
June 12, 2020
My deepest sympathies go out to you Aunty.
I am truly sorry for your loss. I would like to offer my deepest and most sincere condolences and may the soul of uncle rest in peace.
Nadeem Butt
June 10, 2020
Nadeem Butt
June 10, 2020
Nadeem Butt
June 10, 2020
Nadeem Butt
June 10, 2020
Nadeem Butt
June 10, 2020
Nadeem Butt
June 10, 2020
Affan Ghaffari
May 30, 2020
Even after his teaching days, Malik Uncle still had a knack for lecturing as evident in these videos that I shot 11 months ago when our family visited him. His vivacious personality was still on display while he multi-tasked.
https://1drv.ms/v/s!AqmVt4trjkGQga9lYAjxTqP2ZoPFkg?e=34FCqj
https://1drv.ms/v/s!AqmVt4trjkGQga9mEG3JFw-JBsb1Bw?e=uCqfG2
P.S. If you're wondering why I didn't upload the video directly, the file is larger than 6 MB and this system doesn't allow it to be uploaded. I hope the links work for everyone since OneDrive links are known to be fickle.
Aziz Malik
May 29, 2020
We are so sad at the demise of our beloved Uncle. He will be greatly missed. May Allah bless his soul and grant him a place in Jannah.
Hadiyah
May 27, 2020
Malik uncle always had the presence of a grandfather in my life. I remember the times him and my grandfather will chat together. He always had a smile and sweet words for me. May Allah have mercy on him. With my deepest sympathy and love to his family, specially to aunty Shamuna a big hug.
Saadiya Anwar
May 26, 2020
Nanajaan was one the kindest people ever. It's no wonder my grandfather named his own son after him. I never got to meet either one of my grandfathers, but growing up Nanajaan never let us actually feel that void. He was so loving and caring to all of us. I still remember the days of driving up to Tallahassee and seeing Auntie Shamuna and Nanajaan like it was yesterday. I still remember the excitement I would feel knowing we were going to meet them. Nanajaan was so easy to talk to and hang out with. I remember wrapping my arms around his waist and just sitting beside him like that; and kissing him on his cheek and he would hug me so tight. I can still hear his voice in my head saying arey bhai, often when he would begin a sentence. Just the way he would say it. I miss his stories. He always knew how to keep us entertained. I wish I could have seen him more, but the memories I have of him will always be with me. May Allah grant him a place in Jannat ul Firdous. Love you Nanajaan.
Faika Usman
May 23, 2020
Rashid Uncle was a very kind hearted, intelligent and wise individual. He played a large role in making my visit to Florida a very joyous and loving memory, he will always be missed. May Allah bless him and may his soul rest in peace, Ameen.
Osman Mahboob
May 22, 2020
Growing up in Tallahassee, my family was always warmly welcomed by the Malik household. I have great memories of breaking bread and listening to Uncle Malik share captivating stories from his past. Even as a young child I remember being inspired by his charming charisma and mannerisms. Dr. Malik was a true gentleman and someone who would go out of his way to be hospitable and make others comfortable. I pray that his grave is filled with light and that he be admitted into the highest paradise. I pray that Allah (SWT) grants his loving wife Aunty Shamuna with the strength and patience to endure this difficult time.
Fawzia Khan
May 22, 2020
So gracious and hospitable were all those visits back and forth to my home and yours in Tallahassee, Fl. I will not forget our talks we had that bonded us together as good friends and in support of all that was going on in our lives. I treasure the drive made to Atlanta many times & to SC & NC to attend family events and weddings. Oh my God, your absence has left a vacuum. May you be blessed with Allah's kindness and forgiveness .
Thank you for being there for me and my family. We love you.
Malik Naseer Ahmed
May 20, 2020
Earliest memory that I recall were of when I went along with my father who was my uncles eldest brother to Karachi when I was hardly 7 years old only to bid him farewell while he was going to the states for the first time for his studies. The last time was end 2014 and early January when he came to Pakistan along with my aunt. I remember taking him around the city of Lahore and visiting the historical places and showing him his birth place. On my visit to the states in Oct 2016 I visited him in Tallahassee. I was very sadden to see my uncle who had been shifted to a nursing home, a man so full of health and activity was dependent on the nursing staff. On my return from the states I tried to talk to him a couple of times and tried to make sense of what he was trying to convey.He was the most lovable, friendly and cheerful of our uncles. Who brought gifts for the entire family whenever he would return to Pakistan from the states. And we as children really looked forward to his visits. When I last saw him in the states in 2016 I never knew that he will leave for his heavenly abode- never to be seen again. My Shamuna auntie devoted her entire time and passion caring for our beloved uncle throughout her married life and especially the last few years of my uncles illness, May his soul rest in peace.Love, Malik Naseer Ahmed. (Nephew of Rashid Malik)
S. Waliullah Shah
May 19, 2020
I met Dr Malik in a party at our place and fortunately we were sitting closely. Therefore we discussed a great deal of things as we exchanged various stories, as we both have been frequent travelers. He invited me to join seniors' club of Desi folks of which Dr.Malik marhoom, prof. Shaheen marhoom, Anwar Allahabadi, Mr.Huda, and Qazi Mehboob Ul Haq Sahab were permanent members, but I told him that it has no point for me to become a member of this club as I come temporarily to Tallahassee. Moreover, there is a transport problem. He said in reply, "you should still join the club, even if you are coming temporarily as we wish to benefit from your experiences, while your pick and drop will be taken care of by me". This gave me an added opportunity to be with him and both of us exchanged quite a lot of stories and views. I always found him a very cordial and friendly person. I met him late in his life, when he was already retired and after a little while he fell sick and was hospitalized, which is why I could not spend much time with him.
Now that he has gone for his final abode, we can only pray for his soul to Rest In Peace and pray to Allah (SWT) for forgiving his shortcomings and granting him the highest ranks in Jannah. I have also to record the way Shamuna Bhabhi devotedly attended her husband and his well being for a quite a long period. May Allah accept her service (khidmat) to her spouse and grant her the best of this life and life in the hereafter.
We all miss Dr. Malik marhoom but at the same time, we all, especially Desi Women of Tallahassee should give moral support to Shamuna Bhabhi to share her grief and loneliness as far as they can afford.
Nilofer Khatri
May 17, 2020
Dearest Uncle, you were a bright star of knowledge and intellect. You will be deeply missed. Looking forward to meeting you again on the other side. -warmly, Nilofer
Faisal (nephew )with Rashid Uncle
Faisal Malik
May 17, 2020
Madiha S. Bari
May 16, 2020
Allah says in chapter 2 verse 156- indeed we belong to Allah and indeed to him we will return.
Malik uncle has returned to Allah. He has left this dunya. He has left us. But what hasn't left us are all those beautiful memories that we created with him. What hasn't left us is the love and warmth he once shared with us. These memories are our keepsake and even though our lives would change, the memory of him shall never pass away.
To share one such memory- the first time I met him 5 years ago. I visited his house with Belal, mom and dad. I greeted him with salam and replied back. He then went on to put his hand on my head and said Allah tumko khush rakhe. It was a very simple gesture yet very special to me as in that moment he gave me a dua. Today as he is not amongst us it's time for us to make dua for him. May Allah(swt) grant his maghfirah, widen and shine light in his grave and dwell a place for him in Jannah. Aameen.
Rashid Uncle in Houston
Muna Malik
May 16, 2020
Me and Shahzad with Rashid Uncle after our wedding.
Muna Malik
May 16, 2020
Muna Malik
May 16, 2020
It is very sad to realize that Rashid Uncle is no longer amongst us. However, the beautiful memories that we all have of him shall forever live on in our hearts. Rashid Uncle was a warm and loving person. He was the life of all our family gatherings. Daddy was very close to him and so he was like a second father to me. He was always telling us funny incidents and jokes and it was never dull around him.
After me and Shahzad got married, we drove down to meet Rashid Uncle and Shamuna Aunty to get their blessings and it was like getting advice and blessings from my father. Being with him at that time took away some of the pain of not having Daddy around to bless me at that special time in my life.
He will forever have a special place in my heart and I pray that Allah grants him the highest place in Jannat and gives Shamuna Aunty courage and sabr. Ameen
Dr nauman Butt
May 15, 2020
Where do I begin... My favourite mamoo, lovable, witty, elegant, soft spoken, intelligent, caring.... And many more qualities bestowed by Allah Almighty... Made him stand out among his friends and relatives. Recall him since my childhood, my college days, visiting him and my mamijan Shamuna in liberty, gulberg... how they welcomed me when I was a med student.. Made me feel so important. Though they shifted to Florida but we remained in touch...Till the very end. Now that he has entered the real world and embarked on final journey may Allah Almighty make things easy for him, forgive him and elevate his status in paradise. He was a wonderful and kind person who left behind lovely memories to cherish and it is with great sorrow that we all have to say goodbye to people we love. My heart goes out to my mamijan who was alone at the time and bore the loss so bravely. I wish we were close by at that time of need. May Allah Almighty accept her sacrifice and efforts and reward her for her sincerety. In this holy month of ramzan let's all pray for him with duas and hadiya of a'maal.
Dr. Nauman Butt
May 15, 2020
Where do I begin... My favourite mamoo, lovable, witty, elegant, soft spoken, intelligent, caring.... And many more qualities bestowed by Allah Almighty... Made him stand out among his friends and relatives. Recall him since my childhood, my college days, visiting him and my mamijan Shamuna in liberty, gulberg... how they welcomed me when I was a med student.. Made me feel so important. Though they shifted to Florida but we remained in touch...Till the very end. Now that he has entered the real world and embarked on final journey may Allah Almighty make things easy for him, forgive him and elevate his status in paradise. He was a wonderful and kind person who left behind lovely memories to cherish and it is with great sorrow that we all have to say goodbye to people we love. My heart goes out to my mamijan who was alone at the time and bore the loss so bravely. I wish we were close by at that time of need. May Allah Almighty accept her sacrifice and efforts and reward her for her sincerety. In this holy month of ramzan let's all pray for him with duas and hadiya of a'maal..
Keith SIMMONDS
May 15, 2020
Dr. Malik was a member of the faculty of History and Political Science at Florida A&M University during my tenure as Chairperson of that department. He served the department well and cared deeply for the students he taught. One of the students he taught was my wife, Avis Simmonds; she has always remembered how challenging yet informative his lectures were.
His lectures in geography expanded our students exposure to the cultural, geopolitical and physical aspects of the geography discipline.
I too, learned much from him during our informal discussions about international politics, especially with regard to the political economy of the Middle East, Pakistan, Afghanistan and India. I also owe much gratitude to my friend Malik for introducing me to Pakistan's formal and informal dress style. He blessed me with Pakistani dress wear which to this day I still have. My wife and I are still grateful for Dr. Malik and his wife's hospitality when they invited us to their home for dinner. It was truly cultural; truly enjoyable.
When I learned that Dr. Malik fell ill, I asked my friend and colleague, Dr. Ufot Inamete, to assist me in going to visit him at the facility where he stayed. We got there together and spent some time with him. My friend, Ufot, who knew a few Arabic expressions got his attention and it was a joy, in the midst of personal sadness, to try and connect with him. I believe he recognized Ufot and I. ironically, just as I was about to contact Ufot to arrange another visit, my friend sent me the sad news of Dr. Malik's passing.
To his gracious wife, Mrs. Shamuna Malik, and family, please know that my wife, Avis and I, share your loss and we express sincere condolences.
May God grant you the strength to adequately bear your loss.
Dr. Keith C. Simmonds & Avis Simmonds
Auntie, Azhar (middle), Uncle and Mahmood (right)
Mahmood Haq
May 14, 2020
All of us are going to leaving this earth to our eternal resting place. May Allah grant Uncle Malik the highest place in Firdaus, make his life in easier in the grave and may he be raised amongst the righteous.
I first met Uncle and Auntie Malik in the early 80's in Tallahassee. Uncle and Auntie became my extended family. Uncle was teaching at Auburn University and Auntie was working at FSU. Over the years as my brothers joined me, we became part of his family. I would even take my friends to his home and he received all of us with open arms.
I remember vividly Uncle charming and engaging personality. He was a true Lahori at heart. We would sit for many hours talking about Pakistan and Lahore and his memory of living in the old city and then moving outside the city when he finished his secondary school education. He would talk about the kabobs and foods he loved. After his retirement we would meet often to grab a burger or a sub.
He would share how he and his brothers spent their summer holidays visiting summer hill station in India and then in Pakistan. He was very close to his dad and admired his mom dearly. A few times in his blossoming teaching career he decided to move back to Pakistan to take care of his father.
He loved his nephews and nieces and on many occasions would speak of them as his own children. Each year he would make a trip to Pakistan to meet his family and I remember that he always had an extra suite packed with gifts for his family members.
He kept up current affairs and news. On many weekends I would just drive to his home and ask Auntie Shamuna to make aloo-paratha. As Auntie would cook, Uncle and I would sit and heat hot off the stove paratha and talk about his many journeys back to Pakistan via ship and land. Almost unthinkable in the 60s and 70s due to lack of facilities and safety.
As an avid geographer, he was an adventurous soul. One of the interesting travel stories he shared happened during his graduate days in the USA, he and a friend bought and old car with tires that hardly had any threads. He and his friends spent the entire summer camping and driving during throughout the US southwest.
He was meticulous and took care of all of his belongings. I remember he would maintain his vehicles in immaculate condition, washing and detailing and servicing them on time. During his last few years, he and I would talk about his car and he would look in the driveway of the nursing facility to point where it would be parked.
I remember him as always being well dressed and to the end Auntie made sure that he has the latest and best clothing.
I had not come across a person who was as universal in maintaining friendship and not hesitating in starting a warm dialog. He was genuine and compassionate and would do anything that he could to help others.
I remember that he loved Cricket - he was passionate about cricket. He would often talk about his affiliation with the Pakistan cricket team soon after the formation of Pakistan, where he and several of his close college friends played on the national team. During eid celebrations and other events we would get together in Tallahassee and have a lively game of cricket.
During my last visit with Uncle, a day before his passing away, I saw him in good spirits. His grip was still very strong and sturdy. His eyes followed me as I called out his brothers Rafique and Bashir - he would look towards the door to see if they are about to enter.
I can recount countless other stories over the years
May Allah give Auntie Malik the strength to persevere this loss and may Allah unite us and his loved ones in heaven. May there be comfort in knowing that someone so special will never be forgotten.
Zeba Yasmin
May 14, 2020
Malik Uncle was great person full of life and energy. Though I had very little interaction with him in last few years, I loved visiting him. It was unbelievable that he would recognize me each time. I loved the way he would always associate me and Affan. May Allah bless him and grant him Jannah!!
Abid Sayeedi
May 13, 2020
Rashid Malik was an excellent person. I had always enjoyed his company. May Allah grant him Janat-ul-firdous and give Shamona sabr-e-jameel. Ameen
Betsy Joyce
May 13, 2020
It was a pleasure and honor meeting Dr. Malik and his wife, Shamuna. We met at CHC, where I enjoyed working with him very much! Dr. Malik and Shamuna were always very kind and gracious. It was truly wonderful to witness the love and dedication between this beautiful couple and I will miss Dr. Maliks gorgeous smile. Rest In Peace, always. Betsy Joyce RDH
Shahzad Shah
May 13, 2020
We belong to Allah and to Him we shall return. May Allah (SWT) forgive Uncle Malik's sins and give him a place in Jannat-ul-Firdous-Aa'la and give Sabr' to the grieving family.I remember the time back in the 90s when I lived in Tallahassee, FL. Uncle Malik and Aunty Shamuna were like parental Figures for all single Pakistani students. I remember them welcoming us to their home and their dining table, which we accepted gleefully. We loved to listen to his stories and his beautiful way of answering our questions. May Allah (SWT) forgive all his sins and give him The highest levels of Jannah. May Allah (SWT) also give Aunty Shamuna best rewards for the way she took care of him.
Ramlah Mahboob
May 12, 2020
Uncle Malik will always be remembered. Whenever we went to see him, he was full of joy. May Allah grant him the highest level in Jannah. Aunty Shamoona was always standing by him, a true example of a wife who stood by her husband through thick and thin. Always remembering uncle in good thoughts and prayers.
Ramlah Mahboob
May 12, 2020
Zahida Ali
May 12, 2020
It was shocking to hear sudden demise news of Rashid Uncle (RIP). I pray to Allah to grant his soul at highest level of Jannah. May Allah also give Sabar to Shamuna Auntee to cope with this huge irreversible loss. She always accompany him in every step of life.May Allah bless Rashid Uncle soul.
May 11, 2020
Dr. Malik, was a great friend to very many people, including my humble self. Dr. Malik was one of the greatest human beings I have known. Dr. Malik was always positive, kind, and providing encouragement and wisdom to everybody. I learned a lot about many parts of the world from Dr. Malik, through many and numerous academic discussions that we had. The world has lost a great man. I strongly pray and know that the Almighty God will grant you, and your family, enormous strength and fortitude to handle the passing of your husband, Dr. Malik. From, Ufot
Karla Goodson
May 11, 2020
Shamuna and other family members, I feel grateful for having known Rashid as he was a good friend and neighbor for many years. He and Shamuna were always very devoted to one another and offered much compassion, friendship and caring during my own personal losses, and happy times also. Shamuna, Paul and I are thinking of you during this time and always, please know you always have our friendship and we love you.
Eid picture with family in Lahore
Kamran Malik
May 11, 2020
Bruce
May 11, 2020
I had the pleasure of working with Dr. Malik over the years and he was a wonderful man. My thoughts and prayers are with his wife Shamuna, family and friends.
The three brothers Bashir, Rashid and Rafique Malik
Nadeem Butt
May 11, 2020
Rashid Malik with nephew Nadeem Butt
Nadeem Butt
May 11, 2020
Old family portrait
Nadeem Butt
May 11, 2020
Rasique and Rashid Malik
Nadeem Butt
May 11, 2020
Rashid Malik
Nadeem Butt
May 11, 2020
Muhammad Hammad Khan
May 11, 2020
Allaahummaghfir li warfa' darajatahu fil-mahdiyyeena, wakhlufhu fee 'aqibihi fil-ghaabireena , waghfir-lanaa wa lahu yaa Rabbal-'aalameena, wafsah lahu fee qabrihi wa nawwir lahu feehi
O Allah, forgive Dr. Rasheed and elevate his station among those who are guided. Send him along the path of those who came before, and forgive us and him, O Lord of the worlds. Enlarge for him his grave and shed light upon him in it.
Faisal Usman
May 11, 2020
Dr Rashid Malik will always be remembered for his jovial personality and wit. A progressive individual who was intellectually very objective and holistic about his views on the mileu. I will also remember him for the stories about early days of Pakistan cricket, development of Lahore and the calm
I will also remember my Khalu for the stories about calm and tranquility of Murree in the decades of 50s and 60s. He was a lover of Pakistani barbecue especially the variety of Kababs and had good taste for citrus. It was always a pleasure to have him around whenever he visited us in Islamabad, Lahore and Abbottabad. May Allah grant him place in Jannah and give Shamuna khalla solace and fortitude to bear this great loss. Aameen.
Shahida Mahboob
May 10, 2020
I am in total grieve to express my deep condolences on passing away of our long time family friend Dr Rashid Malik. He was indeed a strong pillar of our community in Tallahassee. We will always miss him. I must acknowledge the years of hardship that our sister Shamuna Malik went through for the last several years to make sure that our beloved brother Rashid Bhai was fully cared. I hardly know of a day that Shamuna did not make it to his bedside at the Consulate to feed him herself even when she was running high fever driving through busy city traffic under hazardous weather conditions. May Allah grant Rashid Bhai the highest place in Heavens and equally reward Shamuna in the hereafter for the sacrifices she made in providing the best possible care that Rashid Bhai deserved.
Kamran Malik
May 10, 2020
Passing away of Uncle Rashid has been a very saddening experience for me because he was like my second father. I had been quite close to him since my childhood but I got to know him much better when I was studying in USA. The way he and Shamuna aunty took care of me while I was there was truly exceptional, and I always felt at home when I visited them.
He was a simple, honest and kind hearted person who had a deep love for all his family. Above all he was a man of great integrity!
We both shared a great passion in sports and music. He had a great love for music and I have very fond memories of us listening to our favourite ghazals of Rafi and Mehdi Hassan, along with my father and his great friend Late Jameel Rizvi (RIP). Wow what great memories!! As he and my father both played cricket in college days along with top Pakistani test cricketers I had the great opportunity to meet many of them at our home.
He was very close to my father, his elder brother Late Bashir Malik (RIP) and they were both always there for each other regardless of time and distance! I will miss him immensely as great memories of him are embedded in my mind which always make me nostalgic whenever I think of him.
Apart from me, my wife Farzana and my children (Hamza and Fatima) too will miss him a lot as they also found him the most loving and caring person. He enjoyed our company and we always had a great time with him when ever he was In Pakistan.
I sincerely thank and commend Shamuna aunty for single handedly taking such good care of him when he was going through prolonged and debilitating health issues.
I pray to Almighty Allah to grant his soul Janaat ul Firdaus along with all other family members who have passed away. May Allah also grant sabr to Shamuna Aunty to cope with such a huge loss.
Our beloved Uncle Rasheed...no doubt you have passed on to a much better place...but you will always remain in our hearts and memories.
We will always miss you.
May Allah bless your soul.
Ameen
Umam Aizaz
May 10, 2020
I am so sorry to know about your loss Aunty Shamoona. My thoughts and prayers are with you. May Dr.Rashid Malik's soul rest in eternal peace.
Monawarul Hoda
May 10, 2020
We had very good relation with marhoom Dr Rashid Malik. He was great friend of ours. He was man of great integrity and very social and had great sense of humor. We always enjoyed his company. We will miss him very much. We pray for him that may Allah give him place in paradise. Ameen
Dr Khalid Butt
May 10, 2020
Dr Rasheed Malik was my favorite uncle(maternal) of whom I have a lot of fond memories. He was a charismatic academic, a truly noble person, full of fun and vigour, loving and caring individual. I pray that his departure from this worldly abode to the everlasting one heralds success and maghfirat. All his well wishers and friends are requested to pray for him too, and bequeath him aamal in whatever way possible
mariyam bashir
May 10, 2020
May Allah SWT grant uncle jannat ul firdous. You will be missed always.
Ayaz Mughal
May 10, 2020
Mr. Malik was a real gentleman, though got to know him late in life, he was a wonderful person to be with and full of amusing anecdotes. We will miss him. RIP friend.
Qazi haq
May 10, 2020
I am saddened to share my memories of such a wonderful friend and also a mentor Dr Rashid Malik who I have known so well for over 30 years. From what I recollect, he always kept his cool under the worst of circumstances. Now that he is no more within us, l recollect the social gatherings at his home, when he invited us and entertained all of us at sumptous dinners and a deeply caring host. I can not forget the loosely formed retirees club he organized every sunday afternoon for a couple of hours. The club comprised 7 or 8 retired members of the community who regularly met under the chairmanship of our beloved friend Dr Malik and discussed every thing from geography to culture to poetry to literature and even politics national and international. We picked up different venues for our meeting starting from Tallahassee Mall to Subway diners and even residence of fellow members. The gathings were so interesting that the 2 hours meetings passed like a few minutes. We really missed Dr Malik on those gatherings for the last few years that he remained bed ridden in Consulate. Last but not the least, I can not forget his guardian like role he played in caring our three sons who were schooling at FSU while we had not yet moved to Tallahassee during the late eighties and most of the nineties. I pray for the departed soul in all my prayers to be awarded the highest place in Heavens.
Hafsa Khan
May 10, 2020
I pray that may Allah give the family the fortitude to bear this great loss while Almighty expands his grave and give him eternal peace. InshaAllah....Ameen
Hafsa Khan (niece)
Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
10.05.2020
Billy Close
May 10, 2020
Our deepest condolences to the Malik family during this difficult time of bereavement. May the life that Rashid lived, the joy that he created, and the valuable lessons taught to thousands of students, warm your hearts and soothe your pain. May Rashid's beautiful legacy, filled with memories of his contagious laughter, fill your hearts with joyful peace as we accept God's will for his transition to paradise.
Billy and Fran Close
Rukhsana Shaikh
May 10, 2020
Rashid Bhai was an amazing person and his passing is a great loss to his wife, Shamuna, family, friends as well as the community as a whole. A loving soul and a very kind man. He will be missed dearly. May his soul Rest In Peace, Ameen
Bilques Usman
May 10, 2020
Rashid bai was a loving husband of my sister Shamuna. He will always be remembered as an able man and a strong personality.I pray to Allah to give him highest place in Jannah and Shamuna courage and strength to bear this great loss. Aameen
Ali Raza
May 10, 2020
May God bless Rashid Bhai soul at highest level of Jannah and give courage to Shamuna baji to bear this irreversible incident. As we all belongs to God and have to returned back. Its difficult for me to describe Rashid Bhai pleasant, cheerfull and knowledgeable personality. Although i have few meetings with him but whatever were, its lasting. We all family members will pray for his Mugfirat ever. Salute to Shamuna baji who really helped her husband till his last breath. Only God will reward Shamuna Baji.
Ali Raza
May 10, 2020
May God bless Rashid Bhai soul at highest level of Jannah and give courage to Shamuna baji to bear this irreversible incident. As we all belongs to God and have to returned back. Its difficult for me to describe Rashid Bhai pleasant, cheerfull and knowledgeable personality. Although i have few meetings with him but whatever were, its lasting. We all family members will pray for his Mugfirat ever. Salute to Shamuna baji who really helped her husband till his last breath. Only God will reward Shamuna Baji.
Saadia Bondrey-Williams
May 10, 2020
My condolences to Shamuna Aunty and family. May Allah grant Malik Uncle the highest place in Jannat ul Firdaus and may Allah give Shamuna Aunty ajar for all her love and dedication on caring for her husband diligently. Her dedication to her husband was inspiring to many of us.
May Allah forgive all shortcomings and shower Malik Uncle with His mercy and love. Ameen.
Reshan Khan
May 10, 2020
The greatness of a person is measured by how he is remembered by his loved ones, and all these comments, by us family members portray how beautiful of a personality was my phuppa', Dr. Rashid Malik.
May he Rest In Peace forever and may he be granted with the highest rewards in Jannah. Ameen.
Jawad Khan
May 10, 2020
I am nephew of Shamuna Malik.
Surely, we belong to Allah and to Him we shall return. Quran 2:156.
May Allah bless him and may his soul rest in peace, Ameen.
Nighat and Iftikhar Ahmed
May 10, 2020
Deeply saddened by this, but still our hearts are full of his joyous memories. Dr. Malik was a good husband, a good teacher and gentle human being who would help anyone he could. Lots of love and prayers for him. We have witnessed first hand how well Shamoona Malik took care of her husband during his illness . Lots of love and prayers for you also Shamoona baji. May you find comfort in his happy memories and in knowing that we all are here for you in this difficult time.
Nadeem Butt
May 10, 2020
Rashid Malik was my dearest uncle and my father while I was in the USA for my undergraduate studies. He was always there for me and was there as a friend when I needed a friend but as a father when I needed a father. My Shamuna aunt was my mother in the USA and was always there for me. I will miss my uncle dearly and am sure that is in heaven enjoying the fruits there and partying with his siblings. Rest in Peace My dearest uncle. Love you and will miss you.Nadeem Butt
My graduation 1986
Hunayun Butt
May 10, 2020
My maternal uncle by relation but really my second father. Spent 5 magical years studying at FSU while my uncle was teaching geography at the university. By nature a very kind hearted man who preferred his privacy and rarely showed intimacy but had great love for his family and the people who he knew. I am deeply saddened by his passing away with him being alone in his last days w my aunt only by her side with regret I was not there for him. But with the hope that he taught so many people and inspired them to greatness he will be duly rewarded for his efforts for fellow humankind by the almighty for his time on this earth.
Rida Saad
May 10, 2020
Please accept my heartfelt condolences on the demise of Rashid uncle. May he rest in peace. Amen.
Affan Ghaffari
May 10, 2020
What set Malik Uncle apart from anyone I ever met was his genuine concern for every human being whether you were a physician, PhD in physics, a nurse, an electrician, a grocery clerk, or a child. He valued everyone's perspective and could carry a conversation with anyone. As someone who talked to Malik Uncle on several occasions, it was obvious he was a jack of all trades and a man of multitudinous interests. We could discuss geography, sports, politics, and healthcare. I remember one time in the house of Dr. Sheikh during December 31st 2007, the Auburn-Clemson game was on TV. I was elated Auburn won the game because I despise Clemson. He called me over and I gave him a high-five after he told me that he was also cheering for Auburn. Then he talked to me about his time as a professor at Auburn. He told me about a man named Bo Jackson who ended up as the best two-way athlete in history as he was a terrific football and basketball player. It was nice hearing Malik Uncle's experience and he sure knew how to connect with people regardless of their age or background.
One indelible incident with Malik Uncle which will always stand out in my mind and quintessentially define him is at the end of a party we had in his and Shamuna Aunty's house. The entire night was pretty blase, especially on the men's side since the topics of discussion were limited to Perwez Musharraf, Pakistani politics, the roots of Urdu words, and an argument of whether Pakistan should've been formed in the first place. The younger generation (including myself, my brother, Monawar Uncle's youngest son, and Qudsia Aunty's younger sister's son) were relegated to the side room where all we could do is play on our phones. Keep in mind this predated the smartphone era. Otherwise, I would've been happy watching something on the ESPN app. Nonetheless, the time was slowly trickling and we were all looking for creative ways to pass time. Then Malik Uncle came over to our side and started talking to us. He said "I'm sorry that this party is boring for you all since they just want to discuss boring Pakistani politics. I should've had something better for you guys to do here." To date, he's the only adult in the Tallahassee Desi community who has ever a) admitted to his party being boring and b) apologized for the party being boring. This incident reflected his sincere concern for everyone that walked into his house and his commitment to giving everyone importance. Malik Uncle knew how to make everyone feel like a million dollars. In the Tallahassee Desi community, he was one of the few adults I could say was genuinely a class act and someone I felt a strong sense of attachment to though we have no blood relations. Malik Uncle genuinely cared for people and this is a rare quality in au courant society driven by materialism, greed, jealousy, and pettiness. When Rashid Malik Uncle passed away, it wasn't simply the loss of a great educator, a great uncle, a great husband, a great son, or a great member of the community, it was the loss of a remarkable human being that understood what it meant to be "human" and never lost that thirst for knowledge, for inquiry, for self-introspection, for understanding of the human condition. His life had a purpose and that was to bring joy to everyone he contacted.
My last conversation with Malik Uncle before his stroke was in August 2013 before I matriculated to Texas A&M for my PhD program. I visited his and Shamuna Aunty's house to discuss this upcoming quest. He expressed a great deal of excitement for me noting that in an age where people are pursuing a Doctor in Philosophy with waning frequency, he was thrilled that I was at least heading down this path. Then the discussion ventured into his travels both in the United States and abroad. He talked in length about the days in which he would travel to Pakistan by ship before the commercial flight took off as the prevailing norm. He talked about his near brushes with death when he was flying by a small jet in the treacherous mountainous areas of Pakistan or when he dozed off while heading back to the Plains in Auburn, Alabama from Tallahassee and almost got into an accident with the truck from the opposite direction. The story that sticks in my mind most vividly is when he discussed his treks to the Grand Canyon which he anointed as his favorite destination of all time. Malik Uncle told me he took a bunch of pictures and put them in a slide show format. He made a promise to me that next time I come back to Tallahassee and visit him, he will bring out the projector and show me his experiences at the iconic Grand Canyon. Unfortunately, that day never came due to the stroke he suffered about a year later. That will always serve as one of the biggest missed opportunities in my life. Insha Allah in the hereafter, he will be able to present that slide show to me. Through his stories and his experiences, one could always notice his love for life, his understanding of the fleeting nature of life, and his uncanny ability to take every event in the proper perspective. When Malik Uncle endured the near death experience near Auburn, he told me that was Allah (s.w.t.)'s way of telling him that he belonged in Tallahassee. Through his engaging manner of storytelling, Malik Uncle could make you laugh, cry, or even challenge your understanding of the world. Once you traversed through the wit, the candor, the humor, the emotion, the drama, and the agony of his experiences, you realize that he taught you important life lessons without actually feeling like you were being lectured. This is a rarefied quality not only in educators, but also across humanity.
Side note: a few years later I actually completed the PhD and Shamuna Aunty shared my graduation photos with him. She told me Malik Uncle exclaimed "What's he doing in my dress?" That always gives me a few chuckles.
I am grateful for every interaction and every conversation I had with Malik Uncle. He was a perspicacious and benevolent person, but he was also flawed. However, his understanding of his own flaws and his sense of humor about his weaknesses is what really made him a superlative person. He would be the first to tell you if he made a rash decision or an emotional comment. However, he was never above acknowledging his errors and making amends. It's what made him a genuine human being and I feel blessed that Allah (s.w.t) give me ample time over the years to spend with him.
May Allah (s.b.w.t) grant him Jannut-ul-Firdaus and forgive him of all his sins. Ameen.
Daanish Hoda
May 9, 2020
We will miss Malik Uncle greatly. I remember the days growing up with him in our lives fondly. May Allah (swt) grant him the highest place in Jannah.
Faisal
May 9, 2020
I always enjoyed spending time with him. He told the best stories about his life experiences. As I grew older I learned to appreciate them more and more. Whenever I visited Tallahassee I looked forward to meeting him and being in the pleasure of his company. He will be missed.
May Allah grant him paradise.
Fatima Anwar
May 9, 2020
Nanajaan was the most interesting person I ever talked to, he had a way of talking to me that left me enchanted for hours as a child. So many fond memories of him, and my heart breaks to know he's no longer with us. When I hugged him my head always felt like I was home. I have a memory of sitting in his office as a young teen and spinning on his chair. I admired him so much for being a professor and being so intelligent. In that moment in his office in his chair I felt smart just knowing I was sitting in his chair. He was the closest relationship to a grandfather I ever had. And my only regret was that I didn't see him more or spend more time with him as he lived so far. But the memories I do have of him will always be some of the best memories from my child hood. He was so kind, loving, and gentle and he is forever with me in this broken heart of mine. May Allah grant him maghfirah and reunite him with his parents and siblings in Jannat al Firdaus.
Mubeen Darji
May 9, 2020
Malik Saab was a truly invaluable member of the Tallahassee community. He was one of the first people we met when we moved to Tallahassee 25 years ago at a house party. In that new and strange environment for us, he and Shamuna Baaji were a welcoming and warm force. Even though Rafiq and I were born in India, we learned more about Indian history from him than we ever imagined we could. His passion for knowledge, history, people, and cricket were prominent in everything he did and every conversation we had with him. Malik Saab was always laughing, which was fitting because he had an amazing sense of humor. One of the clearest memories we had with him and Shamuna Baaji was their 40th anniversary celebration. It was truly a memorable night from the bright smiles of the guests to Rida giving a commemorative anniversary speech. But the most memorable part was Malik Saab talking about his life's journey and his love for Shamuna Baaji. When looking at this community, it is obvious that he has had a lasting and positive impact. We will miss him dearly. Even in his last few years his passion for what he loved remained unfazed his love for his family, travel, history, and FSU. May Allah SWT grant him Jannatul Firdaus, and give Shamuna Baaji, and his family sabr and strength during this time of grief. Ameen.
Rafiq, Mubeen, Rida, & Rayyan
Zunairah Khan
May 9, 2020
I am Zunairah Niece of Shamuna Malik.
May Allah have mercy on his soul and grant him the highest place in Jannah, Ameen.
Sadeem Ali
May 9, 2020
I am the nephew of the wife of Dr Rashid Mailk, expressing his condolence and praying for his soul to rest In peace and patience for the family. He was a highly educated man .
Nusrat Ali
May 9, 2020
I am Nusrat Ali, sister in law of Dr. Rashid Malik and deeply grieved on this great loss of my sister Shamuna Malik. He was a very learned man and devoted husband . May his soul Rest In Peace . Amen.
Luna Shaik
May 9, 2020
May Almighty Allah dwell him in Jannaltul-Firdaus, the most beautiful paradise. Ameen.Luna Shaik.
Jay Brown
May 9, 2020
My deepest condolences to the Malik family.. Dr. Malik was my professor at Florida A&M in the nineties...I loved his class. He will be greatly missed
Showing 1 - 86 of 86 results
Make a Donation
in Rashid Malik's name
Memorial Events
for Rashid Malik
How to support Rashid's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Rashid Malik's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
