Anthony Edward Robinson

Born with the given name Anthony Edward, but affectionately known as Tony, our dear loved one was born April 14, 1957, to Alice Estelle Robinson and Willis Nelson in Philadelphia, PA, who both preceded him in death. He was the third of seven children, and was educated in the Philadelphia school system. He was known for his huge, bright smile, infectious laugh, being eloquent/excellent with words, having a welcoming aura, and being seen in high quality fashion—from his kufi or baldini hat to his creased slacks and Italian shoes.

He stepped into the fold of Islam in early adulthood and was then acknowledged as Anwar. He maintained up until his last breath that Allah is the only One worthy of Worship and that Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is His Messenger. He was known to often walk long distances to hear the word of Allah in spite of his health struggles, and he loved the arrival of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan. 

During his working years he volunteered at mens shelters. He made such an impact that he would consistently be hired and would progress to supervisory roles in Mental Health and Rehabilitation at RHD-Ridge, Gaudenzia, Kirkbride, and other organizations. He aided hundreds of men and women on difficult journeys and was beloved in the spaces that he occupied. He attended and graduated from multiple colleges including the University of Delaware. Anwar completed his Associate’s and Bachelor’s degrees, and partially completed his Master’s degree before being heavily stricken by cancer. Despite this, Anwar continued being a lifelong learner, avid reader, and active individual. 

His lineage includes his two daughters: Sherell and Tamirah; two granddaughters: Ibtihaj and Illiyin; maternal Siblings: Georgianna (Missy), Jacqueline (preceded him in death), Bonnie (preceded him in death), Marsha (preceded him in death), Brian, and Eric; paternal siblings: Barbara and Kim; siblings in law including Leon, Lisa, and Eric T; aunts and uncles: Barbara, Delores, Carolyn, Virginia, Sally, Bert, Lawrence, Solomon, and Dennis; nieces: Devona, Cinea, James (whom he affectionately called “ice water”), Khalid, Miracle, Shykeah, Alicia, Natasha, Nyfeah, Brittany, Sha’lena, and a host of others; cousins: Regina, Jeanine, Coretta, Rodney and others. He was also a father-figure to Adillah, Zubaidah, Aquilah, Kia, Malachi and a host of others. Also dear to Anwar were Charmaine, Mark/Moe, George (who preceded him in death), and others. 

Not even two weeks before his passing, he told his daughter Sherell to ensure that he has a janazah (muslim funeral). His focus was on preparing to be returned to Allah as is established by the deen of Islam that he loved. And today we honor his request with the greatest love amidst our incredible sadness over parting with such a huge part of all of our hearts. May Allah forgive all of Anwar’s sins—known and unknown. May Anwar’s grave be spacious, luminous and a pleasant resting place. May Anwar’s good deeds outweigh any bad, and may He be reunited with his loved ones in the highest heaven-Jannatul Firdous. Ameen