Obituary

Wilbur Lee Darden, affectionately known as Raheem, Raq Bey Haq, and lovingly nicknamed

Box, passed away peacefully on January 30, 2025, surrounded by his beloved family.

Born on April 27, 1957, in Wilmington, Delaware, Raheem was the cherished son of the late

James Olivious Darden and Geneva Haile Darden. He was preceded in death by his sister Mary

Diane Darden, his aunt Lorraine Darden, his uncle Arthur Lee Darden, and his grandmother

Mary Bozena Darden.

Raheem grew up in Wilmington, Delaware, where he attended Stubbs Elementary School and

later Bancroft High School, graduating in 1975. His journey in life was one of passion, purpose,

and perseverance. He moved to Providence, Rhode Island, in the summer of the aforementioned

year.

Raheem leaves behind a loving family who will continue to honor his legacy. Sheila Dorsey his

devoted life partner, son, Dennis Miller, and his wife, Sitha (Angel), of West Palm Beach,

Florida, along with their children Aziah, Dontae, Armani, Yahael, Stori, Justin, and Sierra, will

cherish his memory. His son, Shaheed Patterson, and his wife, Krystal, of Alexandria, Virginia,

will remember his strength and wisdom. His daughter, Minister Nyeesha Joy, of Newark,

Delaware, and her children, Taylor Victoria, Christian M. Darden, Skylar, Alan’yah, Asa Joell,

and great-grandson Le’vye Darden, will forever hold his teachings in their hearts. His daughter,

Jamila C.C. Pierce, and her daughter, Zoe, will continue to walk in his light. His former wife,

Felicia Pierce.

Raheem is also survived by his older brother, Samad Haq Darden, and his wife, LaWana Haq

Darden, of Plainfield, New Jersey. Their daughters, Shakirah Haq Darden (children: Tenzin

Vincente and Sabastian Bing), and Tonya James, along with children James Hall Jr., Jasmine

Fleuridor, Omari S., and Ijaz James, and grandchildren Shyla and Chanel Fleuridor, will continue

to share the family’s rich legacy.

Additionally, he is remembered by his beloved niece, Tracy Darden, daughter of his late sister

Mary Diane Darden, and her children Dominique, Jaymesha, and James Darden IV, as well as a

host of cherished cousins: Joyce, Eunice, Debbie, Vanessa, James, Lonnie, Gail, and Richard

Haile, along with their extended families in Wilmington, Delaware, and Philadelphia,

Pennsylvania. Raheem also leaves behind his twin godchildren, Kai and Kaliyah.

Raheem’s journey was one of strength and resilience. As a young man, he trained as a boxer at

local YMCAs before advancing to rigorous martial arts training in the New England area under

the notable Master Tiger Linc Martin. Known as Master Raheem, he became a distinguished

member of the Master Chi World of Self-Defense and went on to win the Grand Championship

for martial arts in Lacuna, New Hampshire. His dear friend and trainer, Master Tiger Linc

Martin, accompanied him in the competitive world of extreme fighting throughout the tri-state

area. A real-life ninja, Raheem was known for kicking down doors that blocked his greatness and

making his presence known wherever he went. His fierce spirit, strong presence, and the

powerful phrase he often declared: “Tighten up, Haus.”

Beyond his athleticism, Raheem was a man of service and talent. He honorably served in the

United States Armed Forces from 1976 to 1978. A gifted musician, he mastered the piano,

drums, and guitar, and his deep, rich baritone voice touched the hearts of many. His music was

more than an art—it was a ministry, bringing encouragement and warmth to all who listened. He

also toured with The Reasons Why Band for nine years as lead vocalist and percussionist.

Raheem’s heart for service extended to his work as a drug and alcohol abuse counselor. His

dedication to uplifting others led him to create vital programs in Wilmington, bringing hope and

healing to those battling addiction. His mission of restoration inspired the establishment of The

Evangelist Church.

A devoted servant of God, Raheem faithfully served Joshua Harvest Church as a minstrel and

spiritual guide. He hosted the Fixin Addiction Show on WHGE 95.3 FM every Sunday and

Friday, using his voice and platform to bring awareness, healing, and encouragement. He

extended his reach through live social media broadcasts, passionately advocating for freedom

from addiction and a life aligned with divine purpose.

Raheem lived an incredible life of accomplishments and victories. Although facing many

adversities in his life, he was never handcuffed to failure and frailty. He sacrificed, and he fought

the good fight of faith. His presence will be deeply missed, but his impact will live on in the

countless lives he touched. His journey is complete, his legacy is strong, and his spirit remains

eternal.

Rest in power, Raheem.