In memory of Jamila Hanna Sayage, her family is asking for donations to the Palestinian Children's Relief Fund in lieu of flowers. Jamila's deep love and connection to her homeland will continue to be reflected in her departure.

An excerpt from her tribute: "...My grandmother came from humble beginnings, born on March 9, 1934 in Birzeit, Palestine to a family of farmers. The youngest of seven children, she spoke of her childhood with immense fondness for her family and her village. She would often tell us stories of her going to the Catholic school in Birzeit and how much she enjoyed learning from the nuns. She loved reminiscing about her beloved brother, Jamil, who would bring her gifts from his travels to Jerusalem and who was adamant that she be able to attend school. Most of all, she spoke of her family’s kindness, particularly that of her mother, Mariam, who never spoke ill of anyone and who used to feed those who were displaced by the Nakba from her own bread, crops and fruit trees. 

Birzeit is where she met my grandfather and where they welcomed their first child, my mother, in my grandfather’s family home. Their home, a beautiful stone domed structure, still stands to this day on a lovely terraced hill that once held a fruit tree orchard. When my sister and I visited the home, it appeared as though it was frozen in time as if holding its breath in anticipation of her return. Despite not having been able to permanently return, she carried her home in Birzeit with her always, never forgetting the fragrant air that would blow through its windows, the food she would cook in its kitchen, the plants and the trees that grew around it, the songs that were sung inside of it, the embroidery (تطريز) that she created in its rooms, and the people she loved so much who would visit at its hearth. In her final days, my grandmother expressed her deep longing to return to her home. We wish my grandmother could have returned to her beloved land and country, to live among its trees and till the land with her hands again. We are so lucky to have heard her stories and to have been able to, even if just in my grandmother’s memories, experience her younger years filled with happy memories and belonging..."

We will continue to carry her love and compassion for her homeland and its people in those she left behind. Thank you to all who donate in her name for honoring her legacy and her memory. 

With love and respect,

Areej Rabie, on behalf of the family