Khadijah Farrakhan, the longtime wife of Nation of Islam leader Louis Farrakhan and the organization’s First Lady, has died at the age of 90.
The Nation of Islam announced her passing on Saturday in a statement that opened with a verse from the Quran, saying that Mother Khadijah Farrakhan had “returned to Allah.” The organization did not disclose a cause of death and said funeral arrangements will be announced at a later date.
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In its tribute, the Nation of Islam remembered her as “a loving wife, mother, and faithful, devoted follower of The Honorable Elijah Muhammad,” whose teachings shaped both her life and that of her husband.
Born Clara Muhammad before embracing Islam, Khadijah married Louis Farrakhan in 1953. Two years later, the couple converted to Islam after he was introduced to the Nation of Islam’s teachings by fellow musician Rodney Smith. Their marriage spanned more than seven decades, during which she remained a steadfast partner throughout her husband’s rise to national prominence.
When Louis Farrakhan assumed leadership of the Nation of Islam in the early 1980s, Khadijah became the movement’s First Lady, serving as a respected figure known for her quiet strength, unwavering faith, and dedication to family and community. Though she often maintained a low public profile, she played an influential role within the organization and was widely admired by its members.
She also addressed the historic Million Women March in Philadelphia in 1997, encouraging women to strengthen their families, communities, and spiritual lives.
Together, Louis and Khadijah Farrakhan raised nine children. Eight survive her.
Her passing marks the end of an era for the Nation of Islam, where she was regarded as a symbol of devotion, resilience, and service. As tributes continue to pour in, she is being remembered not only as the wife of one of America’s most influential religious leaders, but also as a woman whose lifelong commitment to faith and family left a lasting legacy.
