Imam Muhammad Al-Jundi Najieb, a pioneer and devoted leader of the Muslim community, passed away peacefully on December 9th, 2024. Born Robert Nathaniel Noble to Robert and Louise Noble in San Diego, California, Imam Najieb was the eldest of three brothers: William and Clinton Noble. From a young age, he demonstrated a passion for both athletics and academics, excelling in wrestling, football and his studies. After high school, Imam Najieb enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, serving in reconnaissance. His military experience shaped his understanding of justice, civil rights, and service to humanity, values that would continue to guide him throughout his life.

Following his time in the Marines, Imam Najieb pursued higher education, studying accounting. However, his life took a transformative turn when he encountered the teachings of the Nation of Islam at Temple 26 in San Francisco. There, he adopted the name Robert 11X and quickly rose to the position of Assistant Minister, advocating for Black Nationalism and empowerment within the community.

Imam Najieb’s journey continued to evolve when he met Verna X, with whom he embraced Sunni Islam. Together, they moved to Portland, Oregon, where Imam Najieb joined the chronology of Imans in Portland. He served as the Resident Imam of the Muslim Community Center of Portland (MCCP), for over 28 years, one of the oldest Islamic centers in the Pacific Northwest. His leadership was characterized by dedication, compassion, and a commitment to the growth of the Islamic faith.

Imam Najieb's influence extended far beyond the walls of the mosque. He was the first coordinator of the nationally acclaimed radio program “Islam in Focus,” which continues to serve as an important source of education and understanding of Islam to the wider community. He was also actively involved in local interfaith initiatives and served on the Board of Directors for KBOO Community Radio and as President of the Muslim Educational Trust (MET). His work with Ecumenical Ministries of Oregon reflected his belief in the importance of dialogue between different faith traditions.

As an advocate for education, Imam Najieb believed deeply in the power of knowledge and wisdom to shape both individual lives and communities. His passion for learning and his commitment to spreading the message of peace led him to receive the Ambassadors for Peace International Award from the American Clergy Leadership Conference in 2003. His life was further enriched by his experiences during two pilgrimages to Hajj in 1978 and 2006, which deepened his faith and continued his purposeful path. 

In addition to his religious and community work, Imam Najieb also demonstrated an entrepreneurial spirit, founding a halal meat business and running a town car service while also working as a truck driver and dispatch manager. His diverse experiences enriched his perspective and enabled him to serve his community in many different ways.

Above all, Imam Najieb was a loving husband, father to six children, a cherished grandfather and great grandfather. His family was central to his life, and he instilled in them his values of compassion, service, and commitment to faith. His wisdom and love touched the hearts of many, and he leaves behind a legacy of deep faith, hard work, and a commitment to the betterment of humanity.

Imam Najieb’s words resonate deeply as a reminder of the sacred responsibility we all share to protect and care for our environment and one another. At the Environmental Summit for the Dalai Lama on May 9, 2013, as an opening speaker, Imam Najieb eloquently shared the following:

“The world – our – environment is a gift to humanity that is to be used for the benefit of all. Not only has humanity been given the authority but also the responsibility to work in harmony with the natural environment. This is our trust. This trust should impel us to have a more active concern for the human condition and the integrity of creation. We dialogue spiritually with our environment not only through our appreciation of it but also how we treat creation – how we treat each other and manage what we have been given.”

In the Qur’an it tells us that we are not compelled (humanity), to adopt one way or another. We are shown the right course from the wrong, and are left to choose as individuals. So, whoever pleases may mind it. Most certainly, we, (humanity) have been shown the way. — Imam Muhammad A. Najieb, May 9, 2013

Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji'oun – To Allah we belong, and to Allah we shall return.

The Janazah Prayer for Imam Muhammad A. Najieb was held Wednesday, December 11th, after Dhuhr prayer at 12:30 pm at MCCP (5325 N. Vancouver Avenue, Portland, OR 97217). The burial followed at Forest Lawn Cemetery (400 SW Walters Dr., Gresham, OR 97080). The Memorial will be held on Saturday, December 12, 2024, at Muslim Educational Trust ( MET) (10330 SW Scholls Ferry Road, Tigard, OR 97223).

Please keep Imam Najieb in your prayers and recite Al-Fatiha for his soul. May Allah grant him the highest station in Jannah and bring peace and comfort to his family, community, and all who loved him.

We end this obituary with one of Muhammad’s favorite Surah Al - Asr.

وَٱلْعَصْرِ

By the ˹passage of˺ time!

إِنَّ ٱلْإِنسَـٰنَ لَفِى خُسْرٍ

Surely humanity is in ˹grave˺ loss,

إِلَّا ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُوا۟ وَعَمِلُوا۟ ٱلصَّـٰلِحَـٰتِ وَتَوَاصَوْا۟ بِٱلْحَقِّ وَتَوَاصَوْا۟ بِٱلصَّبْرِ

except those who have faith, do good, and urge each other to the truth, and urge each other to perseverance.