of North Little Rock, AR
March 1, 1944 - June 5, 2025
In Loving Memory of Karimah "Karen" Akel
It is with deep sadness that we announce the untimely passing of our beloved aunt, Karimah "Karen" Akel on June 5, 2025.
Karimah was born in Ramallah, Palestine and immigrated to Chicago in 1969 before eventually settling in Little Rock, Arkansas with her devoted husband, Fuad Akel. During their time in Chicago, Karimah and Fuad opened F&K Liquor Store, where they worked side by side from open to close, serving their community with dedication. They were each other's rock, sharing both the responsibilities and joys of life.
After retiring from the store, Karimah and Fuad returned to Little Rock. Never one to sit still, Karimah continued working as a teacher's aide at My First School daycare, where she spent 10 fulfilling years nurturing young children.
From a young age, Karimah had a passion for sewing and was a gifted seamstress. She also enjoyed crocheting, needlepoint and shared her beautiful handcrafted works with family and friends. In retirement, she developed a love for gardening and took great pride in her yard, tending to it with joy until her final days.
Karimah was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Fuad Akel; her parents, Odeh and Bahia Akel; her brothers, Jamal and David Akel and her sisters, Mary Akel, Georginia Akel Farhat and Salwa Akel as well as many dear relatives and friends who held a special place in her heart.
She is survived by her sister, Ekhlas Akel Salamy; numerous nieces and nephews and many loving extended family members and friends.
Karimah will be remembered for her tireless work ethic, her generous spirit and her deep love for her family especially her nieces and nephews, whom she adored. She touched the lives of so many and leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness and cherished memories.