Bismillah Ar-Rahman Ar-RaheemBismillah Ar-Rahman Ar-RaheemIn the name of Allah, the most Gracious, the most Merciful. “The Essa and Latib families are bereaved by the untimely death of Shazia Essa Suliman, survived by her husband Yusuf Essa (Choppee), her three sons Saaif, Armaan and Mohamed and her daughter-in-law, Almaaz. Shazia was a wife, a mother, a daughter, a sister, daughter-in-law, mother-in-law, relative and a friend to many. We are indeed at a loss. It is never easy to lose someone whom we so dearly love. Shazia was the most lovable and warm natured person to one and all. Her zest for life inspired all those who were blessed to have met her. She was a dignified individual, who had consideration for all those around her. She was a pillar of strength and a huge comfort to her family and loved ones. She was the inspiration in assisting her husband Yusuf (Choppee) of Choprop, to manage and grow their business to unimaginable heights. The family is in shock, as they now try to deal with her demise. With deep sadness they face each day as a new challenge. Unimaginably, many more difficult days and years lie ahead. May Allah (SWT) grant the family ease and understanding. Shazia’s families are eternally grateful for the never ending support received from the community. May Allah (SWT) reward all those for every deed done in favor of Shazia during these difficult times. May Allah grant Shazia Jannat-ul-Firdous InshAllah. We love you We miss you”‘Verily we belong to Allah and verily to Him do we return.’ – Family
My Beautiful, Darling Wife Shazia… My Beautiful, Darling Wife Shazia… I go to bed at night and I miss your presence. I miss your amazing energy, touch and soulful smile. These have been the most difficult days of my life. The world believes that I can move on. Little do they know that you are in my heart and where do I find the courage or strength to move on. The emptiness in our lives is beyond what any words can describe. There is so much I still needed to say to you…Shaz. I love you more than you can ever imagine. I am so sorry that I took your presence for granted and thought that you would always be there. Our home is empty without you. We are all lost and we all miss you like crazy. I thank Almighty Allah for bringing you into my life from the age of 14. I am grateful for our 27 wonderful years of marriage. Thank you for our 3 wonderful boys. You have not only been the spark of my existence, but also fueled the fire within me. I pray that Almighty Allah grants you the highest abode in Jannah. In some strange way, I feel relieved that you are no longer in pain and discomfort and I know that as a shaheed, you are in a much better place. Allah (SWT) in His infinite Mercy has healed you by ending your earthly discomforts.
Yours forever and always, Chop #Choppee&Shazia
Nadia Latib, Sister of Shazia EssaNadia Latib, Sister of Shazia Essa “On Sunday April 4, 2021, my life changed forever, as my older sister Shazia Essa Suliman transcended to the other side, leaving us all devastated. Her sudden absence has left a huge void in our hearts. She was 47 years old, a mother of three adorable sons (Saaif, Armaan and Mohamed) and married to her childhood sweetheart, whom she called HER HEART AND SOUL – Yusuf Essa.From a very young age she was sickly and struggled with severe asthma. However, her illness never stopped her from living her life to the fullest. After she went to Iona Convent, her personality transformed and she went from being a really shy person, to becoming the best version of herself.She was a people’s person, and was always there for anyone and everyone.Her contagious smile and bubbly personality always made people feel comfortable and at ease. She was extremely witty and had an inherent genius ability of creating hilarious moments wherever we went. A breathtakingly beautiful, classy woman with excellent style and admired by many. Her mind was one of the most brilliant I have ever encountered and her gut intuition was always spot on.Her caring nature and golden heart displayed the gem of a person that she was. She was loved and cherished by all. To me, she was my best friend and confidant. She was my greatest supporter and always motivated me to achieve my goals. She always took care of our family and especially this February when we had Covid-19, she ensured that we all recovered, but tragically, sadly, she did not recover… My sister Shazia had a larger than life personality, which was a testament to the truth. The sad reality is that our community has lost someone who was one in a billion and irreplaceable.My heart will forever be broken and will probably never heal and as life goes by, we will be forced to continue living our lives as time doesn’t stop for anyone. Shortly before my sister left us, we chatted about life in general and her last words to me were, ‘life is short…make others happy, but make yourself happy first.’ Shazia, seeing you these last three weeks in hospital made us feel so helpless. You fought so bravely. I am ever so grateful to Almighty Allah for giving me the time I spent with you on Saturday… our sisterly bond will always be there because we will always be connected, no matter where we are… you are my hero, and will always be. Your innate strength and versatility is what I will carry with me forever. I will keep your memory alive and will always honour you. You have left me with very big shoes to fill, and as I promised you, I will fulfill everything you asked of me. I love you more than you could ever imagine and my life will never be the same without you. Farewell my beautiful sister, my strength, my rock, remember you will be eternally etched in my heart and soul… I pray that Almighty Allah grants you the highest abode in Janaah and that He grants ease to everyone you have left behind. Your passing has shaken our community and has rendered us all inconsolable.I know when it’s my turn to transcend – you will come fetch me. Until then, light up the heavens with your light and laughter and be healthy and at ease.The only solace I have is that you are no longer suffering and you are in a better place than we are. Until we meet again my beloved sister and best friend.I LOVE YOU”
‘There is sacredness in tears, they are not the mark of weakness, but of power.They speak more eloquently than ten thousand tongues. They are messengers of overwhelming grief, of deep contrition and of unspeakable love’ – Washington Irvine
Dolly Boots, friend, “Shazia. An amazing soul, gone too soon. You will forever remain in our hearts. Your memory will never fade. May Allah grant you the highest stages in Jannah, Insha Allah. Love and miss you my bestie.”
Roselle Julius, friend, “Shazia lived and loved well. She brought fun, life, laughter and beautiful memories into our lives. She will be dearly missed.”
Melanie Naidoo, friend, “A more beautiful soul the world has not seen. Your authenticity, caring, kindness and ability to bring fun into all things, made this world a better place. Love and miss u.”
Li-Anne Meyer, friend, “Shazia, I was never ready for your departure. You left a huge void in our lives. You had a way of keeping us moving and your positive outlook on life was remarkable. Rest easy my friend, so many years, I just wish we had more time. I will never forget you. Lots of love.”
