Nawal Far Shunnarah

Nawal Far Shunnarah, 81, passed away on August 6, 2024 in Birmingham, Alabama. Nawal was born in 1942 in Ramallah, Palestine. At 18, she married the love of her life, Shawqi Shunnarah. They later moved to the United States and settled in Birmingham where they were happily married for 54 years and raised four children. Proud of her culture, Nawal spoke Arabic fluently, was an extraordinary cook of Arab food and loved watching Arab soap operas. She spent much of her life pouring countless hours of her time, energy and talent into making meals for family, friends and even strangers who were always welcome in her home. A shopping lover, the quality of the food Nawal cooked was matched by the quality of clothing and accessories she purchased and generously shared with her loved ones. Family was of the utmost importance to Nawal, and she was happiest when her home was filled with her children and grandchildren who brought her immense joy. Together, they would sit for hours in her living room telling stories, laughing and making memories that will be forever cherished. Nawal will be remembered for her selfless and caring nature, outgoing and humorous personality, and toughness and strength. She will be greatly missed by all of the family and friends she leaves behind.

Nawal is survived by her four children: Michael (Samya) Shunnarah, Victor (Suhaila) Shunnarah, Joseph (Sheila) Shunnarah, Ann (Michael) Bajalia; grandchildren: Anthony (Meri) Shunnarah, Steven Shunnarah, Alexis (Matt) Bajalia Fitzsimmons, Essa (Amanda) Bajalia, Ashlyn Bajalia, Anna Shunnarah, Saji Shunnarah, Elizabeth (Chris) Graf; great grandchildren: Whitney Fitzsimmons, Max Graf; siblings: Dounia (Jamil) Smeir, Suhaila Rizkalla, Jawad (Lina) Far; sister in law, Samia Far; caretaker during her final years, Yolanda “Peaches” Gamble; and a host of nieces and nephews who loved her dearly. She is preceded in death by her parents, Aziz and Nabeeha Far, her husband, Shawqi Shunnarah, her brother, Jamil Far, and her brother in law, Khalil Rizkalla.

A visitation for Nawal will be held Monday, August 12, 2024 from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM at Saint George Greek-Catholic Melkite Church, 425 16th Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35205, followed by a funeral service from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM.