URS January 15, 2023
Ashraf (Donald) Halley has gone over Jordan, as he liked to say. He left this body on January 15, peacefully, surrounded by loved ones in his home in Maui. His life was transformed after meeting Pir Vilayat, who initiated him as Cherag and later Sheik, and with whom he felt a strong connection to the end of his life. Ashraf first moved to the Abode in 1977 with two of his children (Sarah and Russell) and lived there, on and off, for many years into the ‘90s. He was part of the team that formed the Omega Institute (which in its first year held events on the hilltop) and later Aegis to support more intimate spiritual work. He was devoted to Universal Worship practice and led weekly services for decades, continuing to just a few weeks before his passing.
Ashraf touched many lives with his wisdom, humor, dedication and abundant creativity.
Ashraf’s time as Director of Aegis at the Abode, was marked by a sense of harmony. The summer camps were always a complex undertaking and often seemed to teeter on the edge between anticipation and chaos. Ashraf always seemed to convey a sense of balance, harmony, and vision. His personal warmth settled many situations and opened hearts. So grateful to have spent some of those summers with him.
Was such a privilege to have known and worked with Ashraf at Aegis! His attunement and dedication were always inspirational and his leadership was always kind and uplifting. RIP insha’allah!