Our Big Brother and Dearest Friend
Today, we mourn the loss of our coworker, one of the pillars of our factory, and most importantly, our brother, Abu Yacoub.
It’s hard to put into words the sadness that’s taken over the factory since we lost Abu Yacoub a few weeks ago due to sickness. It feels like we lost a part of Hirbawi itself, but even more, we lost a brother who stood by us through every high and low for decades.
The factory feels so much heavier now. Every morning since Abu Yacoub left us has been filled with dread, knowing we won’t find him already working at the looms. He’s no longer there waiting to share morning tea, swap stories, or laugh at our jokes during the long hours of work. We even miss how annoyed he would get when we used our phones.
Our heads still instinctively turn to call for him when we need something, only to be met with the heartbreaking realization that he’s not there. After over 50 years as a constant presence in our daily lives, how do we even begin to get used to his absence?
A Loving Grandfather and Passionate Artisan
Abu Yacoub poured his heart and soul into this place. He joined the factory only five years after Hajj Yasser Hirbawi established it and became one of the people who defined what Hirbawi stands for. He wasn’t family by blood, but he was family in every way that mattered.
Abdo was very loved by the community for his gentle smile. He was often mistaken as one of the Hirbawi brothers, because of how long he had been with us.
Abu Yacoub made sure our kufiyas carried the spirit of Palestine to the world. His work wasn’t just for the factory — it was for our heritage, our voice, and the hope of freedom.
But there was so much more to Abu Yacoub than work. He loved his small farm, where he raised livestock and chickens. He was a proud father of two sons and eight daughters. And we’ll never forget how much he hated screens. Every time he saw one, he’d say, “May electronics be cursed!” and then laugh.
Abu Yacoub will always remain the face of Hirbawi that everyone knows and loves. His absence is a wound that words can’t heal.
Abu Yacoub's Everlasting Legacy
As we grieve, we find a renewed sense of purpose: to carry on Abu Yacoub’s legacy. Abu Yacoub’s love for this factory and his dedication to keeping our traditions alive will always inspire us.
Abu Yacoub, thank you for everything — your love, your strength, your loyalty. You’ve left a space no one can ever fill, and we miss you more than words can say. But we know you’ve finally found the peace you deserve after a lifetime of resilience and hope.
You’ll always be our brother, our guide, and a part of this factory’s soul. Rest easy, Abu Yacoub. You will live forever in our hearts.
