It is with great sadness that I announce the passing of my father and world-renowned Jazz & Classical Cellist Abdul Wadud. Born Ronald E. DeVaughn, on April 30, 1947 , in Cleveland, OH, my dad made his transition on Wednesday, August 10, 2022. Known for his work as a Jazz and Classical Musician and Composer. Wadud was the 1st person to pioneer in playing the Cello without the bow, he played with his hands. He studied at both Youngstown State and Oberlin Colleges while playing for the Youngstown Symphony Orchestra. He later relocated to Newark, NJ where he played with the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra while earning his Master's Degree in 1972. My dad played with notable classical and jazz artists such as Julian Hemphill, Arthur Blythe, Frank Lowe, George Lewis, Oliver Lake, Sam Rivers, Cecil Taylor, David Murray, Chico Freeman, Anthony Davis, and James Newton, and Wynton Marsalis. Following his professional career, he relocated to Charlotte, NC later returning to Cleveland Ohio until his transition. Abdul leaves to cherish his memory his children : my sister, Aisha DeVaughn and I along with a host of friends and family. My father will be memorialized through a traditional Islamic service on Friday August 12th, 2022 and will be laid to rest in Cleveland, Ohio. On behalf of the DeVaughn and Wadud Family, we are grateful for the outpour of support and courtesy at this time. May Allah grant you mercy & favor 🕊🤲🏾✨ #RipAbdulWadud #RipRonaldEDeVaughn