A wise man has returned home.
William Earl Singleton, born in Raymond, Mississippi, on April 18, 1934, was affectionately known to his loved ones as Kweku. He lived a life guided by intellect, passion, and profound pride in his heritage. The name Kweku, meaning “born on Wednesday” in Ghanaian tradition, was one he carried with reverence; it embodied his deep connection to the African continent and his enduring love for his people.
A brilliant mind and unyielding spirit, Kweku was an author, scholar, and mentor whose wisdom illuminated every room he entered. He earned his undergraduate degree from Wilberforce University and later pursued his Master’s in Mathematics at another distinguished institution. His mastery of numbers reflected his greater gift; he could see the patterns in life, people, and purpose with rare clarity.
To those who knew and loved him, Kweku was more than a thinker; he was a force. He loved being Black, celebrated his identity with pride, and taught others to do the same. He walked with the spirit of a true guru—one who inspired countless children and adults alike to honor their roots, walk tall in truth, and never accept mediocrity.
He didn’t tolerate nonsense; his sharp words—always rooted in love—could correct and uplift at once. When Kweku spoke, people listened because behind his strength was a man of immense compassion.
In his lifetime, Kweku journeyed far and wide, but his heart always returned to Mother Africa. He never strayed from the path of self. His connection to Ghana was spiritual and ancestral—a homecoming of soul and spirit. In a beautiful act of divine timing, he was able to return there once more with his beloved son, Hanani Shelomo, just one month before his passing. That journey, filled with love and completion, became his final circle; a man returning to the land that had always called his name. His final tribute to the ancestors before joining them was bringing his son, Hanani Shelomo, back to his cultural fatherland.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Atieno Singleton; his cherished son, Hanani Shelomo; and his beloved brother, Billy Ray Holmes. His legacy lives on through numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, friends, and the many hearts he touched through his words, his mentorship, and his fierce example of integrity.
Kweku’s life was one of purpose, passion, and power. He showed us what it means to live unapologetically, to think deeply, and to love our Blackness proudly. Though his earthly journey has ended, his voice and vision remain—echoes of a mind and spirit that refused to be confined.
Job well done, Baba Kweku William Earl Singleton. May the ancestors be pleased with you.
May your ancestors receive you with open arms.
May your memory continue to teach, challenge, and inspire.
May we all carry forward the brilliance of Kweku—the man who reminded us to know ourselves, love ourselves, and honor the Motherland.
May paradise be your eternal sanctuary, Baba Kweku. Rest well!
