Maryam Muhammad

Maryam Muhammad, age 87, passed away peacefully at home on November 28, 2025, in Searcy, Arkansas. She was born on June 12, 1938, in New Edinburg, Arkansas, to loving parents Ell and Lacie Cranford.

Maryam spent her childhood in New Edinburg, where she grew up surrounded by family, faith, and a strong sense of community. It was there she later met the love of her life, Samson Abdul Muhammad. The two were united in marriage in 1963, and together they built a life rooted in love, partnership, and dedication. They later settled in Searcy, Arkansas, and welcomed their cherished son, Omar Ali Muhammad, in 1966.

Maryam devoted more than 50 years of her life as a caregiver, touching countless families with her warm spirit, gentle hands, and natural gift for nurturing. Caring for others was not just her job—it was truly her calling.

In the early 1970s, Maryam converted to Islam and lived her faith with sincerity, discipline, and deep devotion.

She had many passions: she loved sewing and often made her own clothing, and she had an entrepreneurial eye for discovering hidden treasures. She delighted in finding something special, restoring it, and passing it along. Maryam also loved fashion. “Her ability to look utterly flawless at all times with her coordinating outfits convinced everyone, ‘She woke up like this’. Though she did not consider herself a cook, she was famous for her unforgettable bean pie. She also enjoyed Chinese food, Dr Pepper, and KFC—simple joys that brightened her days.

Those who knew Maryam will forever remember her as caring, nurturing, kind-hearted, and fiercely independent. She had a story for everything, always sharing wisdom, humor, and love.

Maryam is survived by her son, Omar Ali Muhammad, and wife Cynthia Carolina; her grandchildren, Zakeel Muhammad, Kayla Muhammad, Denise McClintock, Brittney Clark, and Maya Alexander; and her great-grandchildren, Austin Muhammad, Brent McClintock Jr., Karrington McClintock, and Joshua Clark. She also leaves behind her beloved siblings: John D. Cranford, Pinkey Ann Cranford-Meads, and Alice Faye Cranford-Rainey, along with many nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Ell and Lacie Cranford, her husband Samson Muhammad, and other cherished loved ones who now welcome her home.

Maryam will be remembered for the love she gave freely, the lives she touched deeply, and the strength and grace she carried throughout her life. Her nurturing spirit continues in every heart she shaped.

A visitation memorial service will be held on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 from 5:00 - 7:30 p.m. at Searcy McEuen Funeral Home. A visitation memorial service will be held on Saturday, December 13, 2025 at the Civic Center in Fordyce from 11:30 to 3:00 p.m.

There will be a private family burial at a later date.

All Cremation arrangements have been entrusted to Searcy McEuen Funeral Home.