The Life and Career of Sheikh Abdul Ghaffar bin Muhammad Noor Al-Fattani
Sheikh Abdul Ghaffar bin Muhammad Noor bin Muhammad bin Ismail Al-Fattani was born in 1327 AH (circa 1909 AD) at his father's house in Makkah's Al-Qashashiyah quarter, specifically in Khardafushi Alley, which later became known as Al-Fattani Alley in the Wadi Sayyidina Ibrahim area.
He received his foundational religious education directly from his father, the renowned scholar Sheikh Muhammad Noor bin Muhammad Ismail Al-Fattani. Following this, he enrolled in Al-Raqiyah School, where he completed his studies.
Career in the Judiciary and Public Service
Upon graduation, Sheikh Abdul Ghaffar began his professional career in the Presidency of the Judiciary (or Chief Judiciary). He started as a Registrar and Clerk responsible for certifying legal deeds and documents.
He was later promoted to work in the Judicial Review Administration Department, which handled the annulment of judicial decisions. He continued to move through various departments within the Presidency of the Judiciary until he was retired based on the statutory age limit.
Service to Pilgrims (Hujjaj)
Sheikh Abdul Ghaffar also dedicated himself to the service of the Guests of God (Hujjaj), assisting his father, Sheikh Muhammad Noor Al-Fattani, in all related affairs. This included being tasked with supervising and coordinating the caravans transporting pilgrims to Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah.
In 1383 AH, his dedication was formally recognized, and he was appointed Sheikh (Head) of the Affairs and Services for the Guests of God.
Passing and Legacy
Sheikh Abdul Ghaffar bin Muhammad Noor Al-Fattani passed away at the age of approximately sixty-seven years on 16/03/1394 AH (circa 1974 AD) at his home in Ta'if, near the square of Ibn Abbas Mosque.
The funeral prayer was performed for him at the Grand Mosque (Masjid Al-Haram) in Makkah, and he was buried in Al-Ma'lat Cemetery, which is the burial place of Lady Khadijah.
He is survived by his son, Sheikh Abdul Aziz Abdul Ghaffar, and two daughters, Zainab and Zubaidah.
(May God grant him and our parents and all Muslims mercy and forgiveness.