Rajani Baabahar, also known as David "Curley" McKenzie, Jr., departed this life March 7, 2008. Born January 25, 1921, he was the second son of three children born to David and Anna McKenzie. He was raised in Harlem, New York and had a passion for basketball and baseball. He played with the YMCA on 135th Street, The Renaissance Team and the Harlem Globetrotters, who are still playing, and a few other teams. Much to his dismay and chagrin, it would become his "brotherly duty" to have his little sister, "Tita", tag along to the games and other youthful functions.



Curley was an eager, early entrepreneur. He began his business career as the owner of a Laundromat and a Pizza Shop in Spanish Harlem. He was handsome, with a head full of curly, black hair, hence, his nickname "Curley". He was well-liked and admired by all and was very proud. He could keep you laughing all night with his jokes.



He was fortunate enough to experience the world by traveling to Spain, England, Morocco and Canada. Eventually, he moved to Hawaii and opened a Rent-a-Car business on the Island of Maui. He also owned and managed a Lounge in Honolulu.



He was an avid member of the Shriners world-wide and the Elks. He became the exalted Grand Master Ruler, a position of hierarchy that gave him great pride.



He began his retirement in Tamarac, Florida and later relocated to Virginia Beach with his sister and his wife of 11 years, Barbara Carter. Barbara passed last year. It is here that they spent many happy years together.



He is survived by his sister, Marjorie E. Garner, "Tita", niece, Melanie, granddaughter, Tara, three grandsons, Michael, Ahmad, Shayegan, five great-grandchildren, and many other nieces, nephews and friends.



A memorial service will be held 1:00 pm Wednesday at St. Marks Roman Catholic Church, 1505 Kempsville, Road, Virginia Beach. After the Memorial Service at St. Marks Church, the family has invited everyone to 5748 Albright Drive, Virginia Beach for a brief repose in his honor.



A Note of Thanks:



His sister Marjorie would like to thank Mr. James Williams for all his help. He was like a son to her brother and never said "no". She also would like to thank his neighbors, Mr. and Mrs. Dan Garcia for their kindness and assistance since they had become friends.



Koa was the love of his life and I"m sure he will miss him very much. Tara his granddaughter came to see and help him when ever she could.