Jamal Bilal

Jamal A. Bilal, a devout Muslim, passed away peacefully on March 17, 2025. Born on October 9, 1931, in Lambert, MS, Jamal spent his formative years there before moving to St. Louis, where he enlisted in the Army from 1952 to 1953 and the Army Reserve. Jamal moved to Mount Vernon, New York, in 1961, where he met and married the former Mary Cunningham (Maryam Bilal), his devoted wife of 61 years. Jamal called Yonkers, New York, home, where he carved a niche in the community for many years. In 1988, Jamal moved back to Summerall, Mississippi, and returned to White Plains, New York, in 2019. He was a beloved father, a cherished friend, and a respected member of the White Plains community.

Jamal spent most of his career serving the community as a Westchester County Highway Department member. He dedicated himself to this role, employing a steadfast work ethic until his retirement in 1979. Like his career, Jamal's personal life was marked by a profound commitment to those he loved. Even though he was separated, he remained a steadfast pillar of support and guidance for his family, who survived him.
Jamal is survived by his wife, Maryam Bilal, of 61 years. Children, Pete Cunningham (wife), Kim,
Nisa Bilal (husband deceased) Prince, Maryam Hunter (husband) Rohan, Abdul Rahman Bilal (wife) Joyce, Quamar Bilal (wife ) Nina. 19 grandchildren Tavares Cunningham, Britney Cunningham, Matthew Cunningham, Kayana Cunningham, Marcus Canady, Maurice Canady, Malik Hunter (wife) Chyna, Joshua Hunter, Raquel Bilal, Raheem Bilal, Tyrik Bilal, Sadiyah Bilal Amari Bilal Jayla Bilal, Nadiyah Bilal, Quamar Jr. Bilal, Mikal Bilal, Nadeenah Bilal, Khalid Bilal. 12 great-grandchildren, one great-great grandchild.

His parents, Beulah Wilson and Henry Buck, preceded him in death. His legacy will live on through the many lives he touched with his kindness, wisdom, and unwavering sense of duty. As we mourn the loss of a remarkable man, let us remember the words of Maya Angelou, "People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." Jamal's spirit, love, and dedication to those around him remain indelible parts of our lives.

We invite you to share your memories of Jamal and upload photos of him on his memorial page. These cherished mementos will serve as a testament to his life and his profound impact on those around him. Let us remember Jamal in our hearts and collective memory, where he will forever be a beacon of strength and kindness.