Denise Ali

Denise Ali was born on April 23, 1959, in Chicago, Illinois, to Mary Alice and Henry Drew. She was the third of five children. On Saturday, August 8, 2026, Denise peacefully departed this life.

Having been introduced to Christ at an early age and baptized at Sunrise Baptist Church in Chicago, Denise carried her faith with her throughout her life. As an adult, her spiritual journey led her to choose the Catholic faith. Denise's marriage to Dawud "Dave" Ali was blessed with the birth of their son, Jamil Ali.

Denise was a graduate of Glenville High School. Denise's entrepreneurial spirit was evident early in her career as a licensed beautician, owning and operating her own beauty salon. She later pursued a career in nursing and earned an Associate Degree in Nursing from Cuyahoga Community College. Committed to continuing her education, she went on to receive a Bachelors and Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Phoenix.

In her leisure time, Denise enjoyed traveling, gardening, walking, barbecuing, cooking, and baking. She especially loved listening to jazz music, attending jazz concerts, and had a special love for diamonds. She enjoyed sharing these passions with family and friends.

Denise was preceded in death by her father Henry Drew, mother, Mary Alice Caston, stepfather Thomas Caston, brother Eugene Caston and stepbrother Willie Caston.

Denise leaves to mourn her loving son, Jamil (Carmalita) Ali; two brothers, Lawrence Drew and Maurice Drew, her twin brother; and one sister, Patricia Drew. She also leaves behind six cherished grandchildren and two step-grandchildren. Denise was also fondly remembered by her three nieces and one nephew, Maurkesha Drew, Maurice M. Drew, Aja Wallace, and Maya Sirmons. In addition, she leaves a host of niece and nephews, relatives and friends.