Henry “Richard” Lewis Slater was born on October 15, 1948, in Anniston, Alabama to the late Lateefah Husain and Willie Robert Slater, Sr. As the youngest of three siblings, Richard shared his childhood with his sister LaVada and brother Willie Robert “Bob”. His brother and his parents preceded him in death.

Richard’s spiritual journey began in his early years as a Christian. His quest for deeper understanding and connection led him to explore new spiritual paths. This guided him to embrace Islam.

He attended Detroit Public Schools and graduated from Kettering High School. Richard’s thirst for knowledge led him to earn a bachelor’s degree in history and a master’s degree in education from Wayne State University.

Richard was deeply committed to uplifting his community during the civil rights movement. He joined various organizations, including The Black Panther Party, the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNICC), and the Republic of New Africa (RNA) where he became known as Konata Tomko.

His passion for helping young people was evident in his career choice as a special education teacher for Detroit Public Schools, a role he dedicated himself to for over 25 years. In his spare time, Richard became a plumbing apprentice. He also earned a real estate license and helped many families. Richard was a lifelong learner, always seen with a book in hand. Later in life, he enrolled in college classes where he studied piano and Arabic. He also completed the Law School Aptitude Test (LSAT) in pursuit of his ultimate goal of becoming an attorney.

Richard met the love of his life, Nellie Jefferies, while they were coworkers at Detroit Psychiatric Institute. They married in 1977 and shared over 50 years of enduring love, true friendship, and close companionship.

After retiring, Richard and Nellie moved to Shaker Heights, Ohio, where Richard continued to serve his community as a part-time Uber driver. He enjoyed spending time with four of his grandsons, exploring the Cleveland area, meeting new people, and engaging in meaningful conversations. A sports enthusiast, Richard had a particular fondness for the Cleveland Browns and Detroit Lions. He had been introduced to the game of golf by his dear friend Andrew Farrar. He grew to love the game and found great joy in teaching and playing with his family. A music lover, Richard wrote songs and taught himself to play the keyboard and acoustic guitar.

Richard’s wisdom and insight made him a cherished counselor and confidant to his family and friends. Known for his keen discernment; his guiding and mentoring of loved ones will be deeply missed.

Richard departed this earth on December 26, 2024, with Nellie, his devoted wife and caregiver at his side. He leaves behind a legacy of love and dedication. He is survived by his wife, Nellie; daughters, Candice Wood (Michael) and Tameka Jones; sister, LaVada Slater; aunt, Mrs. Mary Allen, sister-in-law, Lynda Jeffries; his cousins, Donald Allen (Jacqueline), Jean Morgan (Alonzo); Patricia Morgan (Dee Dee), Karean Troy; grandsons, Lawrence, Jordan, Kendall, Logan, and Marshall; nieces, Michelle, Yolanda “Red”, Robin (Mandrell), Felicia, and Willia Roberta; nephews, Anthony “Tony” (Rochelle), Konata, Martell, Derrick, Kevin, Damon, Lorenzo, Terrance, Joseph, Antonio “Tony” (Jenna), Juan, and Robert; and many other relatives and friends.