Tributes have poured in across the community in memory of Councillor Dr Aysha Raza, who passed away last night (Sunday, 15 February).
Councillor Raza was first elected in 2014 and served the Central Greenford ward for more than a decade. She served as cabinet member for tackling crime and inequality between 2021-2023 becoming Ealing Council’s first ever Muslim woman cabinet member.
Councillor Raza was heavily involved in community organisations in Greenford and across the borough including The Young Ealing Foundation, The Ealing Wildlife Group, The Holy Cross Players and The Royal British Legion. She served as a governor at both Stanhope Primary School and William Perkin High School.
Leader of Ealing Council, Peter Mason said: “The news of Councillor Aysha Raza's passing last night is incredibly saddening and our hearts go out to her family who are grieving her loss.”
“Aysha was a diligent and steadfast campaigner who worked tirelessly for her community in Greenford. She will be remembered for the energy and enthusiasm she brought to campaigns not only our borough but beyond. She will be deeply missed by her Labour Group colleagues and across Ealing.”
Councillor Raza’s friends and colleagues have organised a gathering in her memory at 7pm tonight (Wednesday 18 February) outside Ealing Townhall.
Councillor Dr Aysha Raza's funeral will take place tomorrow:
Date and time: Thursday 19 February. Please arrive between 12.45pm and 1.00pm.
Place: Harrow Mosque, 34 Station Road, Harrow, HA1 2SQ.
Colleagues of all faiths and none are welcome to attend the funeral prayers at the mosque.
In line with Islamic tradition, Muslim men are invited to join the family for the burial at 2.30pm at Greenford Cemetery, Windmill Lane, Greenford, UB6 9DR.
The family have not requested flowers. If you wish to leave floral tributes please place them outside Ealing Town Hall.
A book of condolence is available to sign at Perceval House, 14-16 Uxbridge Road, Ealing, W5 2HL between 9am and 7pm in the lobby for the next two weeks. If you are unable to attend in person you can email your condolence to: vaghelah@ealing.gov.uk
A memorial for Councillor Dr Aysha Raza will be held after Ramadan finishes in mid-March. Further details will be available in the coming weeks.