Khadijah Farrakhan, the wife of Nation of Islam (NOI) leader Louis Farrakhan, has died at the age of 90. The Nation of Islam officially announced her passing on June 27, 2026, stating that she “returned to Allah” after 72 years of marriage to the Minister. No cause of death was disclosed in the organization’s statement.
A Legacy of Leadership within the Nation of Islam
Known widely as the “First Lady of the Nation of Islam,” Khadijah Farrakhan played a significant role in the organization. She became a devoted follower of The Honorable Elijah Muhammad alongside her husband.
Her influence extended into the public sphere, most notably during her appearance at the 1997 Million Woman March in Philadelphia. Speaking to the crowd, she emphasized the necessity of collective progress, stating, “A nation can rise no higher than its women. We focus on women but cannot lose sight that we must rise as a family — men, women and children.”
Family and Background
Louis and Khadijah Farrakhan were married in 1953. Two years later, the couple converted to the Nation of Islam after Louis Farrakhan was introduced to the teachings by musician Rodney Smith. Throughout their long union, the couple raised nine children: Louis Farrakhan Jr., Mustapha, Joshua Nasir, Abnar, Donna, Hanan, Maria, Fatimah, and Khallada.
The family experienced a significant loss in 2018 when Louis Farrakhan Jr. preceded his mother in death. In recent years, the organization continued to publicly honor the couple’s partnership. Last year, a celebration held at The Salaam Restaurant in Chicago marked Minister Farrakhan’s 92nd birthday while specifically highlighting the “unwavering strength and grace” of Mother Khadijah.
Official Response and Arrangements
The Nation of Islam released a formal statement expressing the Minister’s “profound gratitude to Allah” for his wife’s life. The organization requested prayers for the family as they mourn the loss. As of June 27, 2026, the Nation of Islam has not released details regarding funeral arrangements or the specific cause of her death.
Key Facts About Mother Khadijah Farrakhan
- Age at Death: 90 years old.
- Marriage Duration: 72 years of marriage to Minister Louis Farrakhan.
- Public Roles: Recognized as the First Lady of the Nation of Islam; speaker at the 1997 Million Woman March.
- Children: Mother to nine children, including the late Louis Farrakhan Jr.
- Official Announcement: Confirmed by the Nation of Islam on June 27, 2026.