Our family had been close friends with Imam Irshad Ali for as long as I can remember. He was my first Islamic teacher, installing a love for the deen in me from a very early age. For that alone I am immensely thankful to him and his wonderful children. Even though he will forever be remembered by most as 'Imam', for us he was much more than that; an uncle and a much loved dear friend. Even when Allah chose to test him by compromising his eyesight, he had the uncanny ability to recognise me everytime I inadvertently bumped into him in the street. Always greeting me with much love and that unmistakable smile. I never left his company without taking away some nugget of religious knowledge. Masha Allah, his dedication to his islamic mission and his Lord was extraordinary. May Allah Most High accept his lifelong service to Him and grant our imam the highest of stations in the afterlife. May He also Bless the family he has left behind. Ameen.