Jamal R. Koram

Jamal R. Koram was born November 30, 1949, in Greenburg, NY to the late James R. Coram and Margaret Ellease Sheppard. “Baba” Jamal Koram transitioned to be with the Creator and was warmly welcomed by the ancestors on Wednesday, June 11, 2025. A caring father, grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin and friend, Jamal Koram will always be remembered for his love of family, illustrious career as an African Griot, educator, mentor and for his beautiful smile.

Jamal was preceded in death by his parents, siblings: Sharon, Joyce and Maria and son in law Mandell.

Jamal graduated from White Plains High School in 1968. Known at that time as James, Looney or Sonny, Jamal was always a mover, dancer, innovator, intellect, comedian and a friend to all he met. Overcoming a traumatic childhood which included a tragic car accident that left him with a permanent leg injury, Jamal’s strength and endurance showed from an early age. He went on to be a star basketball player and danced across many stages in his singing group “The Societies”.

Jamal continued his education, earning bachelor’s, master’s, and ultimately finishing his education at The University of Virginia Charlottesville earning his Eds degree. As his career continued, Jamal went on to become a master storyteller focusing on the West African tradition and has traveled the world. Known for his singing and ability to entertain and amaze any crowd, Jamal soon became known as one of the best to ever do it. He is especially known for his stories “The Little Cornbread Man” and “When Lions Could Fly”.

Baba Jamal leaves behind his wife Ida (Brown) Koram, children Anika (Koram) Powe (Jetiones), Nilaja (Koram) Dobson (Mandell) both of Charlotte, NC, Khente Koram (Bionca) of NC, Omari Koram (Reneè) of MD, Adiya Koram and Sekou Koram of Alexandria, VA. Grandchildren Khary Dobson, Anaya Dobson, Nia Dobson, Zoe Becote, Elijah Koram, Zakiyah Koram and Zendaiya Koram. His siblings Gilbert Aponte, Rose Martinez, Fernando Aponte, Juan Aponte and Tito Aponte. Jamal also leaves behind many nieces and nephews, Godchildren and 2 cherished friends Joe “Lukata” Mack and Kenyatta Henry.