

He whose heart has been revived by love will never die,
Our eternity has been written in the record of the world.
― Hafiz
Obituary
Haji Dr Ali Agha Khaleeli was born in Madras, India. He was the the third of four surviving children of Mohammad Taqui Khaleeli and Shahtaj Namazie. His brothers were Khaleel Agha and Mansoor, and his sister Naheed.
When his family moved to the United Kingdom, he stayed behind in India with his beloved paternal grandmother until the age of five. He then joined the rest of the family in London and attended Mill Hill School. He studied medicine at the Royal London Hospital in Whitechapel. He specialised in endocrinology and worked in a number of London hospitals including St Stephens, Charing Cross and UCL. He wrote his MD Thesis on Endocrine Myopathies.
In 1971 he married Noushafreen Hidayatullah (Cherie): they had three daughters: Zhaleh, Homa and Samia.
In 1977 he fulfilled his ambition of moving to his ancestral home of Shiraz with his family, where he practised medicine and lectured at Shiraz University. When the Iranian Revolution broke out in 1979 he stayed to support his colleagues until he was eventually forced to return to London. In 1985 he settled in Mere, Cheshire, having taken up the post of Consultant Endocrinologist at Halton General Hospital. He specialised in thyroid and parathyroid disorders and set up comprehensive diabetes services, along with his general medicine. He continued to publish his research despite a busy clinical job, and was known for supporting his juniors through their exams and beyond. After more than four decades as a doctor, he moved back to London and devoted himself to his seven grandchildren: Zayan, Mikail, Marjaan, Amara, Kasim, Jahan and Zafar.
Although medicine was his passion he loved travelling - taking his family on exciting trips to Syria, Romania, the Hunza valley and beyond. He always enjoyed a game of cricket - and, of course, engaging friends, relatives and strangers in political debates.
Throughout his life he never stopped learning, and began studying Farsi in his 70's so he could fully enjoy Persian poetry.
He passed away peacefully surrounded by his family, but he lives on in our hearts.
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Memory wall
I sincerely express my deepest condolences to his esteemed family especially Dr Zhaleh on the passing of dear Dr. Ali. He was one of the most honorable man I have ever met in my life
May his soul rest in peace, and his memory remain alive. Mohammad reza khalili
Dr Khaleeli was kind, supportive, thorough and caring and generous.
I did go on and in 2008 started my training in Diabetes and Endocrinology. I once met him in national Diabetes UK meeting in 2010; he was absolutely delighted that I had chosen Diabetes as my career. I was a research fellow at that time and he knew my supervisor. He insisted that he wanted to talk to my supervisor; he held my hand, walked me towards her and told her “this young chap is Iranian, and started at Halton with me, and you need to look after her” 😊 LOL 😊.
He will be remembered forever for his kind personality; care he gave to patients and all and juniors he trained.
And of course his smile.
Hamid Mani

A unique man who became a teacher, mentor and friend
Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, especially Cheri and his girls. Xxx

Ali's path and mine parted as we grew older; he went to medical school and I went to university and started employment. We met a few times after that; he always told me of his love of Iran and the Persian language. He told me that he had spent some time in Shiraz, where I had lived when my father was posted there in the 1950s. I recall with fondness my visits to Persepolis where I could feel conscious of my Persian heritage, as did Ali. Shiraz must have changed a great deal as I was there two decades before he visited Pars.
I met Ali now and agin; once in Cheshire to celebrate his 25th wedding anniversary and a few times after that, when we were both retired. Being in his presence reminded me of the warmth with which his family treated us when we were newcomers to Britain.
I met Ali in his house in Finchley for the last time shortly before he passed away. While there, I noticed some literature from 'Medical Alid for Paletine' in his house and told him that MAP was also my charity of choice and to which I will be pleased to contribute in his memory.
Hadi Samsami
It was with great sadness that I heard Dr Khaleeli passed away in December. My deepest condolences to his family. He will be remembered with lots of fond memories. May he rest in peace.
of his forefathers.
Though Iran was close to his heart, Ali was British in his training, his humour and enjoyment of English poetry. He straddled both cultures with ease, taking the best from both.
In life there are ups and downs and suddenly life can throw a googly at you. For Ali's his indifferent health was that googly. His passion for his profession, which had run like a constant thread through his life, was compromised.
He left this world on a cold winter's day surrounded by the warmth and love of his close family and all the lives he touched. Few have the good fortune to be so genuinely loved and respected by so many. Ali was a worthy recipient.
May he meet his Maker knowing he has done his best in this world. May he rest in peace.
Farewell Haji Dr.Ali Khaleeli.

One of the most memorable times with Ali was at Samia and Abbas' wedding where Ali was so joyfully enthusiastic about meeting my husband Giulio and celebrating the wedding together.
I have no doubt he has made a huge, on-going impact, in so many ways, on so many people's lives and will be hugely missed.
For me the most memorable story is from the 70's when between exams we used to play squash at Charing Cross Hospital sport center in Hammersmith. Both of us were young and keen to win, and we always ended up pushing each other to our limits in order to win. This kind of memory reminds us of the vibrancy of life and the friendship we cherish. It is sad for me that later in life I did not have the opportunity to spend time with a such a wonderful person.
Our thoughts are with Cherie, Jaleh, Homa, Samia during this difficult time.
Ali, Golnaz - Montreal Canada 5th of Jan 2025
It has been a pleasure and an asset to have such a friend and we are grateful to him in taking us into his family as friends
Waheed
A very caring humane and thoughtful friend ever one to be relied upon. A sad loss. And much missed.
On the other hand I remember him as a young husband in 1974 when, as a student on my own in England, I spent many happy hours with at Cherie and Ali at their home in Barnes, often spending the night. This was before any of their children were born and I suspect they were practising parenthood on me.
As is inevitable when around Ali, much time was spent on lively political discussion and debate, especially as I too was not shy about expressing my opinion. But Ali always responded in a spirit of
good naturedness and kindness, never reproachful or hostile at the impertinence of a much younger interlocutor.
He was good manners personified. I will always remember him as gentle and good humoured even while engaging in intense argument. His infinite capacity to come to everyones aid whenever called upon is a rare quality and his love for his family is shining through for all to see in the pictures posted in the gallery.

May his soul rest in peace.
____________________
I recall 2 conversations however I will focus on the main one.
I was at Ameh Azeezeh and Uncle Khaleels place one day and we were all in the living room. Uncle Ali asked me which one of your parents are you more like?
I responded diplomatically like my mother and said that I was a mix of both my parents.
That question lingered through the years.
Uncle Ali as I reflect as an adult on your question... I'm probably 60% Manucher, 20% sprinkles of Soraya and 20% Uniquely Marjan.



In March 1985 three newly appointed physicians met together for the first time ( Zoom meetings had not been invented yet ) to discuss what work they had to complete before the newly built Halton Hospital, Runcorn was opened in May. The new Consultants were Ramesh Mallya ( Rheumatologist) , Ali (Diabetes and Endocrinology) and myself (Respiratory). We met in Ramesh’s house and began to get to know each other over a lovely lunch. Thus started a lifelong professional and social fellowship which I treasure.
The Hospital had previously consisted of inpatient beds for the Geriatric service and Outpatient Clinics served by visiting consultants from the teaching hospitals . Ali was an persuasive advocate for his specialities, especially diabetes, and was able to establish an excellent team over the years thereby improving the standard of diabetic care for those in the catchment area. He was also enthusiastic supporter of medical education and took on the relevant responsibilities for undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. He never lost his interest in medicine nor those that worked with him.
He had many interests outside medicine. The main diabetic clinic took place on Friday morning following which the whole diabetic team went for lunch in the canteen. Many subjects were discussed there ranging from the history of the Middle East , poetry, British politics etc. He was well read and his opinions were worth listening to. Injustice was anathema to him. It always amused me however that during this lunch Ali , the man who encouraged people to eat properly, would succumb to the famous Halton Hospital Rhubarb Crumble now and again !
I had the responsibility of arranging the Halton Consultants’ first eleven cricket team. Ali loved the game . The most important game of the year was the match against the General Practioners. Ali fielded in the slips, batted in the middle order and was an off spinner but after any game he would complain that he had suffered some medical complication, more often a dodgy shoulder. While his strokeplay was attractive his long discussion about whether to take a close run or not did result in a few run outs !
Ali was a family man who was very proud of his daughters and adored his grandchildren. He was blessed to have Cherie by his side through thick and thin and we pray for all the family. There will be many people outside his family circle that will join them in their grief.


جناب آقای دکتر علی آقا خلیلی انسانی وارسته و مهربان بود که حضورش آرامشبخش بود ولی فقدانش اندوهی عمیق به همراه دارد. یاد او همواره در دلها زنده خواهد ماند و نام نیکش در خاطرهها جاری خواهد بود.
هرگز نمیرد آنکه دلش زنده شد به عشق
ثبت است بر جریدهی عالم دوام ما
Dr. Ali Agha Khalili was a very dear and beloved friend to us. He was a remarkable kind person for everyone who had the privilege of knowing him as well.
Dr. Ali Khalili will always be remembered for his kindness, wisdom, and unwavering dedication to others. His absence leaves a void that can never be filled, but his legacy will forever inspire those who knew him.
Our thoughts and prayers are with him. We are sure that Dr. Khalili’s soul is at peace, resting in God’s eternal embrace.
Mohammed Reza Ghodsizadeh
Mahindokht Askari
Tehran, Iran
We are grateful for the beautiful memories he left behind and the love he shared so generously. Though he may be gone, his legacy will live on in the memories of all of us who hold him dear. Rest in peace, dear uncle; you will be deeply missed.


I remember him waking up early to do the cricket scores.
We shared a love of theatre, literature and travel but underlying all his many interests was his undoubted love of family. This love, grew with him over the years turning him into a loving husband and the most wonderful of fathers.
His legacy are his three intelligent, articulate and loving daughters and their children.
May Allah grant him
Dr Khalili was much loved and respected at Rustam. His enthusiasm for studying was an example to us all. So proud of his support. A wonderful human being.
So sorry that we did not manage to attend his memorial service. The notice was circulated too late due to school holidays.
Rest in peace dear Dr Khalili.
Ali was always welcoming of family in his home. Jayne will never forget that on every occasion we went to lunch at Ali's home, he prepared a special salad for her. Another characteristic that was totally Ali was he could discuss with a great deal of knowledge any subject affecting the world geopolitics.
We shall miss you deeply Ali, but we will always remember your love, kindness and generosity as a husband, father, son, brother, and grandfather. Now all we can pray for is that Cherie and the children have the strength to bear the pain of your loss. May Allah be with you always.

In his memory, I share this poem by Hafez:
بود آیا که در میکدهها بگشایند
گره از کار فروبسته ما بگشایند
اگر از بهر دل زاهد خودبین بستند
دل قوی دار که از بهر خدا بگشایند
O heart it may be that the door of the wine-houses, they will open
The knot of difficulty of our entangled work they will open
If, for the sake of the Zahid's heart, self-seeing, they closed the door
Strong, keep the heart, for the sake of God, they will open
Rest in peace Mr Khaleeli, I wish nothing but peace and patience for your loved ones in your loss.


I sincerely extend my deepest condolences to you, your beloved daughters Zhaleh, Homa, and Samia, and your esteemed family on the passing of dear and cherished Dr. Ali. He was one of the most honorable and noble individuals I have ever known in my life. Both Khosrow and I deeply admired and loved him. I understand how incredibly difficult it is to lose someone so close to your heart.
May his soul rest in peace, and his memory remain alive in our hearts. May God grant you patience and peace during this difficult time. Please kindly convey our condolences to your entire family on our behalf.
With respect,
Zahra, Yasmin, and Mina Khalili
🖤🖤🖤
Sometimes, it becomes too late all too soon.
گاهی چقدر زود دیر می شود
May his noble and vibrant soul rest in joy and peace.
He was kind and nurturing and he always seemed to know how to make people feel good.
I am sending so much love to all of you for I know how much Ali will be missed… ♥️
May Dr.Ali Rest in Peace..Amen
Thank You so much Hashem Jan for sending me this link..now I know what I never knew during all these past 50 odd years🤲🫶🙏🥰. From Hussain Mehdizadeh in Spain
Whenever we were around other people, he always praised our ability to speak Farsi. He valued it so much that it made us feel incredibly special. His interest was something very rare and unique, not a common experience for Iranians nowadays, and that meant so much to us. He was like a safe and comfortable presence nearby, and the idea of him not being around anymore keeps bringing tears to my eyes.
We have spent so many wonderful times with him—in Homa’s house, at his and Cherie’s place, in our place, or in the park, mosque for Eid prayers, and restaurants around Finchley. Every one of those moments has created memories that we will cherish forever.
Dr. Khaleeli was a rare soul—thoughtful, curious, and warm. He brought people together and left everyone he met feeling valued and inspired. I cannot even imagine the empty space this must leave for the family, and I wish you all Sabr in this incredibly difficult time.
May Allah grant him Jannah and bring peace and strength to his loved ones.



I have very much enjoyed seeing him over the years at different family occasions.
My Dad was also very fond of Ali. They were both members at Mere Golf and Country Club. Dad always looked forward to his chats with Ali.
Ali will be deeply missed by his family and friends ❤️.
Ali had time for every one, irrespective of who you are or what your back ground is,
he had a clean heart, he would genuinely be happy with your success. Envy , jealousy or hatred was never in his vocabulary, after all he was our Ali. May Allah grant him the highest position in heaven which he very much deserves. May his pious soul rest in peace.
Ali I shall never forget you, you will always be in my prayers.













I cherish many fond memories of him, whether it be quoting poetry, debating the important issues of the day, conversations about medicine or life in general. He loved practising medicine with a passion and enthusiasm that is rarely seen and was an inspiration to myself and many others. He was a wonderful grandfather to my children.
I couldn't have asked for a better father in law. He will be dearly missed and never forgotten. May Allah bless his soul.
He loved unconditionally and was loved that way in return.
His untimely departure from our world has left a void.
He is greatly missed.and I very much hope we all continue to celebrate his life and remember him for all the things he loved, his family and friends, poetry, gardens, good Irani food and so much more.
We exchanged Wordle scores and my first choice of word is always uncle Alis tip, it contains 3 vowels and 2 very frequently used consonants. My scores have improved thanks to him!
It's very difficult to process that he is no longer there.




Most importantly, he was overwhelmingly dedicated to his family - and not just his immediate family. I remember seeing him at the weddings of two of his daughters. I was not amazed that he knew everyone in the room, I was amazed that he made everyone in the room feel welcomed and at home in the most genuine manner. And, of course, he also loved to have a good time! I have attached a photo of Uncle Ali dancing with my younger sister, Nadia.
Uncle Ali was a kind and loving uncle and I will miss him dearly.
Uncle Ali - I love you! Love, Alya

RIP dear Ali Umoo. x





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