Khadijah Farrakhan, Nation of Islam’s ‘First Lady,’ Dies at 90

Khadijah Farrakhan, the longtime wife of Nation of Islam leader Louis Farrakhan and a prominent figure within the religious movement for more than seven decades, has died at the age of 90.

Her death was announced on Saturday by the Nation of Islam’s Shura Executive Council, which described her as the beloved wife of Minister Louis Farrakhan and the “First Lady of the Nation of Islam.” The organization said she had “returned to Allah” after a lifetime devoted to faith, family, and service. Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced in the coming days.

Known affectionately by followers as “Mother Khadijah,” she spent decades working alongside her husband as he led one of the most influential, and often controversial Black religious and sociopolitical movements in the United States. While Louis Farrakhan was the public face of the Nation of Islam, Khadijah remained a respected figure behind the scenes, supporting the organization’s outreach, community activities, and emphasis on Black self-reliance and family values.

Born Betsy Ross in 1935, Khadijah married Louis Walcott, who later became known as Louis Farrakhan, on September 12, 1953, in Boston. Two years later, the couple converted to Islam after becoming followers of the Nation of Islam, influenced in part by the teachings of Malcolm X. Following their conversion, both adopted new Islamic names and dedicated their lives to the movement.

Over the course of their 72-year marriage, the couple raised nine children. Their eldest son, Louis Farrakhan Jr., died in 2018, while another son, Joshua Farrakhan, died in 2023. Despite these personal losses, Khadijah remained an active presence within the organization and continued to be revered by its members.

Although she largely stayed away from the political spotlight, Khadijah Farrakhan occasionally delivered speeches that reflected the movement’s emphasis on family unity, morality, and community empowerment. One of her most memorable public appearances came during the 1997 Million Woman March in Philadelphia, where she addressed thousands of Black women.

During her speech, she urged women to embrace leadership within their families and communities, declaring that “a nation can rise no higher than its women.” The remarks became one of her most widely remembered public statements and reinforced her reputation as a respected voice within the Nation of Islam.

The Nation of Islam, headquartered at Mosque Maryam in Chicago, credited Khadijah Farrakhan with helping strengthen the organization through decades of social and religious work. In its tribute, the movement described her as “a faithful devoted follower” whose life exemplified dignity, compassion, and unwavering faith.

Following news of her death, tributes poured in from members of the Nation of Islam and supporters across social media. Many remembered her as a gracious mentor, devoted wife, loving mother, and an enduring symbol of loyalty and perseverance. Artists, activists, and community leaders praised her commitment to uplifting Black families and supporting generations of believers.

Khadijah Farrakhan’s passing marks the end of an era for the Nation of Islam. For more than seven decades, she stood beside one of America’s most influential and controversial religious leaders, quietly shaping the movement through her steadfast support and commitment to its mission.

As the organization prepares to honor her life, followers say her legacy will live on through the generations she inspired, the family she helped raise, and the community she faithfully served for more than 70 years.