Somebody once said, “Life is a great big canvas and you should throw all the paint on it that you can.”

It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Alva Jean Simpkins on Sunday, 10/6.

She colored our lives in a special way.

A huge source of light and support, Alva Jean honorably answered to many names: Mama, Nana, Mama Jean, Ms. Jean, Too Fine, and many others. She fulfilled every role with love, humor, and realness whether it was within the family, the community, or with the young mothers and children she passionately supported through her work.

Whatever name we called her, she was loved and gave even more love back. Her conversation, compassion, humor, and comfort food were unmatched.

She leaves to cherish her many memories:

her brother: Pastor C.V. Simpkins, her son: Jaja (Brittini), her grandkids: Tatianna, Takeya, Taneza, and Aliyah, her great grandchildren: Amelia, Amira, Ariella, and Baby Harris, along with a host of other family members.

Numerous extended family members call her their own.

Donations will be directly distributed to her only surviving son, Jaja Nauhuru, and applied to funeral costs.

Arrangements for her celebration of life are pending. Once available, they will be posted here.

Please keep her loved ones in your prayers.