Established in 1998 Gardens of Peace Muslim Cemetery wasn’t built overnight. Four individuals Mehboob Patel Farouk Ismail Makbul Hussain Mubeen and Gulem Mahomed Nadat had a vision. They wanted to provide a peaceful burial space for the Muslim community in East London. Their charitable efforts laid the foundation for this important site.
The first Gardens of Peace site opened on Elmbridge Road in November 2002. It was a significant achievement. Years of hard work and planning permission finally bore fruit. The cemetery served a vital need. It addressed a lack of dedicated Muslim burial grounds in the area. Many in the community were first-generation immigrants. They wished to be buried in their adopted home not repatriated.
This wasn’t just about burials. Gardens of Peace also aimed for community cohesion. The cemetery offers more than a final resting place. It provides training on death-related matters. This includes both legal and religious aspects. The founders encourage school visits to teach children about death in a peaceful setting. They welcome visitors from all faiths. Their aim is to promote understanding and respect.
Mohamed Omer MBE plays a key role in external affairs. His contributions are crucial to the cemetery’s success. He was involved from the early stages. Gardens of Peace even has a clothes bank. This is a unique feature. It supports the community and charities. The cemetery provides a place for reflection and prayer. This is a tranquil setting for personal contemplation. Gardens of Peace even has a bereavement support service. It primarily caters to women. It addresses the lack of specific support for grieving women in the Muslim community.
Gardens of Peace expanded over the years. A second site Five Oaks opened in 2017. A third site Maylands joined the family in September 2024. This was after a long and complex planning process. The cemetery now serves a significant part of Greater London’s Muslim population. Gardens of Peace far exceeded its founders’ expectations. It stands as a testament to their vision and hard work. It’s a place of peace tranquility and community support. It’s much more than just a cemetery.