Though his passing was unexpected, we take comfort in trusting that God’s plans are always greater than our own. With hearts full of love, gratitude, and cherished memories, we gather to celebrate the remarkable life of Jihad Sterling Saleem, Jr, who transitioned on February 14, 2026, at the age of 65 in Powder Springs, Georgia.

Sterling was a carefree, quiet yet outgoing, intelligent, fun, loving, family-oriented soul who brought light, laughter, and love to everyone who knew him. His presence was a gift, and his legacy will continue to live on through the lives he touched.

Born on June 30, 1960, in Hackensack, New Jersey to Jihad Saleem, Sr (deceased) and Baseemah Saleem. Sterling grew up as the eldest of six siblings. He graduated from Hackensack High school in 1978 and went on to receive his bachelor’s degree in computer science, with a minor in mathematics from Montclair State University in New Jersey in 1984. He later married his childhood sweetheart, Monica Howell Saleem and from their union came their daughter Tileah Aisha. After obtaining a certificate in computer engineering, he went on to work for Bergen County Administration and Finance Department of IT. Then later in his career he worked in IT for the Paterson Board of Education until his retirement.

While he was dedicated to his work and responsibilities, music was where his spirit truly came alive. His love of music was woven into the fabric of his life. It was more than a passion, it was a language he understood deeply, a source of happiness, and a reflection of his spirit. Through music, he found meaning, connection, and joy and it will remain one of the most cherished parts of the legacy he leaves behind.

Known for his talent on the keyboard and piano, Sterling created his own music production company called Madd City Productions. Through his company, he produced and released original music while collaborating with other musicians. His love for music was boundless, and those who experienced it felt the joy and creativity he shared with the world.

Beyond music, Sterling embraced life fully, pursuing other passions and sharing his time and talents with family and friends. He had a love for sports; he played on the varsity basketball team in Highschool and was known for his left-handed hook shot which he continued playing in college. He enjoyed spending quality time with his family, traveling, listening to live music and attending concerts. Affectionally known as Pop Pop, he found great joy in being a grandfather. He embraced the rewarding role of homeschool professor for his young grandchildren, Tegan and Tahj, taking immense pride in their education and participating in their homeschool co-op activities.

Sterling leaves behind a legacy of love and is survived by his daughter Tileah Aisha Saleem Alexander (Johnnie L.), Monica Howell Saleem, the devoted mother of his child, grandchildren Tegan and Tahj Alexander, mother Baseemah Saleem, siblings Shakir Saleem, Sharrieff Saleem, Ashia Saleem, and Ahmad Saleem, along with nieces, nephew, extending family members, and lifelong friends who will forever cherish his memory. Sterling is preceded in death by his father Jihad Saleem, Sr and sister Sana Saleem.

Though our hearts grieve his absence, we find comfort in knowing that he trusted God in all things and lived his life with faith, courage, and joy. He often reminded us not to worry about tomorrow, but to embrace each day as a blessing. We honor him best by living fully, loving deeply, and walking forward with the same faith that carried him throughout his life. His spirit, wisdom, and love will forever reside in our hearts.