Celebrating the Life of Zakiya Holmes — A Mother, A Sister, A Light

More life and love to everyone reading this. My name is Ayanna Holmes, the younger sister of Zakiya Holmes. With heavy hearts, we are reaching out to ask for support as we honor Zakiya’s life and provide for the future of her three beautiful children, who now face the world without their beloved mother.

Zakiya was the heartbeat of every room — the life of the party, the one whose laugh could light up the darkest day. Her energy was magnetic, her presence unforgettable. Whether she was dancing, cracking a joke, or simply being her bold and beautiful self, Zakiya made everyone around her feel seen, loved, and alive.

Above all, she loved hard. Her love for her family was unconditional and unwavering. If she loved you, you knew it — and you felt it. She showed up for her people with everything she had, no matter what she was going through herself.

In her own words, she never wanted a traditional funeral. She wanted to be celebrated with joy, light, and love — just as she lived.

As we prepare her homegoing celebration, we want to do just that — send her off with the honor and energy she deserves, surrounded by the people who loved her most. Any contributions made will go toward these arrangements and, most importantly, toward helping her children in the months ahead as they begin to navigate life without their mother.

Your support — whether big or small — means more than words can express. If you’re unable to give, please consider sharing this with your community. Together, we can celebrate Zakiya’s life and help secure the care and support her children need moving forward.

With deep gratitude,

Ayanna Holmes & Family