Worthing’s First Muslim Mayor Jack Saheid Dies Aged 83

Worthing’s first Muslim mayor, Jack Saheid, has passed away at the age of 83. Worthing Borough Council has confirmed that its flag will be lowered to half-mast on the day of his funeral, which will take place at Hills Cemetery in Horsham on Thursday, March 13.

Mr Saheid, who lived in West Chiltington, died on March 4. Collections are being made in his memory for the British Heart Foundation and Dementia Support. He served on Worthing Borough Council for Selden ward between 2003 and 2008 and was mayor in 2004/05. In recognition of his service, he was granted the title of Honorary Alderman in October 2008.

Born in Guyana, Mr Saheid moved to Britain in 1961 and became a British citizen in 1967. During his time as sub-postmaster at Worthing’s Lyndhurst Road post office, he was the victim of three armed robberies in just two weeks. Despite this, he continued serving the community and later became a director for Worthing Homes. He also served on Horsham District Council, representing the ward of West Chiltington, Thakeham & Ashington.