Hassan Sharif passed away on December 23, 2025.
Hassan A. Sharif, also known as William Kenneth Leach, age 72, passed away peacefully on December 23, 2025, in Akron, Ohio, the city where his life began and came full circle.
Hassan was born on February 18, 1953, in Akron, Ohio, to the late William H. Leach and Louise (Boles) Leach. He was a proud graduate of John R. Buchtel High School, Class of 1971, where he distinguished himself as a star basketball player and was honored with the Manhood Award—an early reflection of the character, discipline, and leadership he carried throughout his life. He later attended the University of Akron.
Hassan served his community with dedication as a patrolman with the Akron Police Department, a role he took seriously and carried out with commitment.
More than forty years ago, Hassan converted to Islam, a decision that deeply shaped his life. He was steadfast in his faith and lived with intention, reflection, and purpose. Known for his brilliant mind, Hassan had a lifelong love of reading and learning. He also enjoyed watching sports and staying informed through the news, always eager to engage in thoughtful conversation.
Hassan was a devoted father and grandfather. He is survived by his former wife, Suzette H. Sharif; his children, Khaliah A. F. Sharif, Amir Sharif, and his stepson, William Travis Criston Johnson; and his cherished grandchild, Dulce A. A. Salazar. He is also survived by his siblings: Toni (Wesley) Anderson, Ruth Leach, Sharon (Lamar) Barnes, Helen (Michael) Wells, and Michael (Angie) Leach, nieces Maria (Victor) Wise, Angie Wise, Tonia Anderson, and a host of great-nieces and nephews, cousins, and friends such as, Sister Asia Muhammad & Family and Brother Stephon Muhammad & Family.
He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Louise Leach; his beloved daughter, Sierra Laila Sharif; his nephew, Wesley Anderson III; his niece, Marva Leach; and his brother-in-law, Wesley Anderson II.
Hassan will be remembered for his intelligence, his faith, his love of family, and the quiet strength with which he lived his life. His presence, wisdom, and influence will continue to be felt by all who knew and loved him.
“O reassured soul, return to your Lord, well-pleased and pleasing. Enter among My servants and enter My Paradise.”— Qur’an 89:27–30
May Allah (SWT) forgive Hassan’s shortcomings, accept his good deeds, grant him Jannat al-Firdaws, and grant comfort, patience, and peace to all who mourn his passing. Ameen.
Services will be held on January 2, 2026, at Sommerville Funeral Services, 1695 Diagonal Rd. Akron, Oh 44320. Friends may call from 11:00 a.m. until 12:00 noon, with the service to follow immediately. Hassan will be laid to rest at Northlawn Memorial Gardens located at 4724 State Rd. Peninsula, Ohio 44264.