I first met Imam Ali about 15 years ago as an undergraduate in Cambridge where he used to come to give the Friday khutbas at the student jumuah prayer. After I moved to Oxford, I met him a number of times at the John Radcliffe Hospital's prayer room at jumuah. I remember his books lying around in the prayer room, and thinking how nice they were. I also remember some of his khutbas still: the message was often simple, but so important and to the point. That is what was often quite unique about them. He also had a way to communicate which was certainly very engaging. He was clearly a people's person. It was years later that I met some of his children -who all do amazing work in their communities Mashallah. Imam Ali had not only managed to touch the hearts of many in his community (and those around him, travelling over an hour to deliver khutbas in Oxford and Cambridge!), but also bring up children who are carrying on his legacy of community work and service. I also only recently met his wife, Hajra, who has deeply inspire me, and has shown me the strong pillar behind Imam Ali's amazing work. I feel lucky to have met such a wonderful individual, and hope and pray that I can incorporate some of his legacy and work into my own life inshallah. England has definitely lost a gem. May Allah Almighty have mercy on his soul, grant him the highest of paradise and give his family strength and patience in this difficult time inshallah.