Salim Kiswani's Obituary
October 3, 1938 - May 10, 2024
Salim Kiswani peacefully departed from this world on May 10, 2024, in Loganville, Georgia. He
was born October 3, 1938, in Beit Iksa, Palestine, and is a survivor of the Nakba. He was a
cherished father of nine children, grandfather of 22 grandchildren, and great-grandfather of 4
great-grandchildren.
Haifa, Faten, Fadwa, Hythum, Fadi, Jad, Lara, Jamelleh and Mohammad (deceased).
Throughout his life, Salim bore witness to the tragic chapters of history. At ten years old, he
experienced firsthand the dispossession and displacement of the Nakba. Despite the trials he
endured in the diaspora as a working-class immigrant, he carried within him a steadfast spirit
and unwavering determination.
Tragically, Salim passed away while witnessing the brutal events of the ongoing genocide in
Gaza, a second Nakba, from afar. His departure leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew
and loved him, yet his spirit remains a source of strength and inspiration to carry on the struggle
for freedom, dignity, and return.
Salim may have been best known for his pipe and Captain Black tobacco, which, when mixed
with his Aramis cologne, created a distinct aroma for him. He hosted generous dinner parties,
loved meat and vegetables, and loved to cook traditional Palestinian falahiyeh dishes. But to his
family, Salim (Baba, Sedo) was a custodian of oral history, passing down humorous and
heartbreaking stories of resilience and resistance. Through his storytelling, we could experience
Palestine before settler colonialism, connect to the land, and remain rooted with our ancestors.
Baba, Sedo spent the last few years of his life living peacefully in the state of Georgia, on a
farmhouse in the country, surrounded by family. He was well cared for by his daughter-in-law
Shannon, and he kept busy by cooking, keeping up with the news, taking in daily calls from his
kids, daily visits from his grandkids and great-grandkids, and his favorite four-legged friend,
Dexter.
We are saddened by his passing and blessed by his lively spirit.
- The Kiswani Family
What’s your fondest memory of Salim?
What’s a lesson you learned from Salim?
Share a story where Salim's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Salim you’ll never forget.
How did Salim make you smile?