Ossama A. Saleh
In Loving Memory
UTC Math Professor
June 6, 1951 – November 30, 2024
Ossama A. Saleh was born on June 6, 1951, in Alexandria, Egypt to his parents, Abdelmoneim Saleh Mansour (father) and Fayza Hammed Ghaneim (mother) along with three loving sisters, Deedee, Salwa and Omayma. His cousin Saleh was like a brother to him as well. Ossama is survived by his sister Omayma and many nephews and nieces.
While growing up, it didn’t take long for everyone around Ossama to realize that God had given him a brilliant mind as he excelled in academia and was truly a mathematics genius.
Upon graduating from high school at age 16, Ossama joined the Egyptian military and began his studies at the Military Technical College where he earned a B.S. degree in Mechanical Engineering. He continued his studies at Ein Shams University in Cairo and graduated with ‘highest distinction’ with a B.S. degree in Pure Mathematics.
In 1982, Ossama moved to the United States to earn two more degrees from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln; a Masters in Mathematics and Statistics and a PhD in Applied Mathematics.
In 1988, upon officially retiring from the Egyptian military as a colonel, Ossama then accepted a position at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC) where he began a 37-year long career of teaching and doing math research until his passing.
Through his many years of dedication to education, Ossama positively affected the lives of thousands of students and colleagues. Ossama also wrote numerous publications that helped advance the field of Mathematics.
On a more personal note…
In 1989, Ossama met Shana Morris. Their special friendship continued for 35+ years until he passed into the Eternal Presence of God. Shana was his guardian angel. She was always there for him throughout the years and he was blessed to have her in his life.
During his earlier years at UTC, Ossama and a few colleagues enjoyed playing racquetball weekly at the racquet center.
He also loved the ocean and was an avid swimmer. He enjoyed extended visits to Chickamauga Lake to gaze at the peaceful water.
Ossama loved music of all kinds, fine chocolates, watching a good movie (don't forget the soda), spending time in nature and studying fine arts and collectibles. He was known for his kind and generous gestures towards others throughout his lifetime.
A sincere note of thanks to the faculty, staff and students at UTC Math department. Ossama felt their unconditional love and support. Special acknowledgements to Iman Saleh (niece), Sam Lawless (friend), Terry Walters (dedicated friend and colleague) and Aniekan Ebiefung (good friend and colleague).
Ossama passed away peacefully on November 30, 2024, surrounded by loved ones. He touched the lives of so many in his personal and professional life. Ossama will be Greatly Missed but Never Forgotten…
In honor of Ossama and to know him a bit better, please listen to a few of his favorite songs:
- ‘My Way’ by Frank Sinatra
- ‘Misunderstood’ by Nina Simone
- ‘I’ll Be There’ by the Four Tops
- ‘Let It Be’ by the Beatles
- ‘Yesterday’ by the Beatles
- ‘Nights On Broadway’ by Bee Gees
- ‘I Can Only Imagine’ by Mercy Me
- ‘Enta omry’ by Umm Kulthum
- 'Get Here' by Oleta Adams
Funeral arrangements are by Heritage Battlefield. There will be a private burial at Lakewood Memory Gardens East. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to a charity of your choice.
Ossama A. Saleh