On August 25th a dramatic ceremony was held for Mr. Tunde Allen Samuel. Family and friends gathered at Abyssinian Baptist Church to mourn the passing of Mr. Samuel. Many people knew him as the great producer of the National Black Theater. It was at the NBT he said he truly began to understand what it is to love a people and their culture.

Born on July 23, 1949, Mr. Samuel conquered many issues at a early age, such as having rheumatic fever and a heart murmur. But despite health problems he over came his obstacles and in later life made a tremendous impact on the Harlem community. "The most important thing I remember about my father Tunde is that he motivated and regenerated people. As for his accomplishments, he made the ultimate sacrifice he put other people before himself.

After the ceremony family, friends, and supporters all marched down Lenox Avenue chanting "Tunda," letting listeners know how much the community recognized his work and his abilities. "It's Amazing how one person could bring so many people together," said a friend Kehinde Ardrey. As HarlemLive joined the march on Lenox Avenue we heard nothing but great acknowledgements of Mr. Samuel such as one by Joseserrer Ferrer, Chairmen of Kwanzaa Foundation. "I want everyone to know that at the ceremony all the comments were spoken straight from the heart. And I know this because I knew Mr. Tunde Allen Samuel personally. I was first introduced to him while doing the Kwanzaa Fest at the National Black Theater. His death was a loss; whenever someone dies it's always a great loss. But his death has made a great impact on the community, and also the people who aspire to be like him."

Mr. Samuel's legacy will be carried on by many people but mainly his wife, Joan Bukanla Willis Samuel and mother, Mattie Samuel. The family appreciates any expressions of condolence. They have requested any expressions of your remembrance in the form of a donation to the Tunde Samuel Fund. For further information, please call (917) 856-6791.