Aatif was born November 9, 1977 and was the first grandson for both his maternal and paternal grandparents. He was an active child and loved spending time with nana and pop. Aatif grew up with his brother Rafiq and cousins Johari and Jaron, a host of special friends in the neighborhood Leon Parker, Ahmed Lawson, Matthew Parker, Keyanna Pressley and Jamar Pressley. When you saw one, you’d see them all.
Aatif attended the Montessori School and Oakhurst Country Day School before entering the Neptune School System. He attended the Gables School and maintained a special relationship with then principal, Thomas Marshall. He graduated from Neptune High School in 1996. While in high school he ran track and played tennis. He then attended Delaware State University for two years.
Aatif worked on the Garden State Parkway as a toll collector for two consecutive summers. He later worked for Blue Cross Blue Shield in Newark as a call center representative. His last job was as a bridge operator in Jersey City and Belmar. After working on the bridges, Aatif became ill and spent his time being a devoted father to his sons. He loved to go fishing, taking the boys to local parks and cooking at home.
He was predeceased by both his paternal and maternal grandparents along with his father. He leaves to cherish his memory his mother, Sharon Stevenson, brother Rafiq Pickett, his one Aunt Robin, sons Isaiah, Jordan, Bryce and Aiden, cousins Jaron, Johari, Jasmine, Mark, and niece Jaelynn and a host of relatives and friends.
Aatif was an avid Eagles fan and never missed one of their games. The one thing in life he was most proud of was his sons!
We would like to thank our family and friends for all of your love and support. A special note of thanks to cousins Pete and Gail, Miss Laura and our church family at Community Refuge Church. Your love and support went above and beyond!
REST PEACEFULLY IN GOD’S LOVING ARM’S MY FRIEND
Sharon, please accept our most sincere condolences on the loss of your son. Our prayers are with you at this difficult time. If we can be of any assistance don’t hesitate to let us know. I know you loved him, but God loved him more.