It is with a heavy heart that we share the passing of Keaira C. Simpkins on Friday, June 2, 2023. She was surrounded by loved ones as she transitioned into the Glory of the Lord.
The Homegoing celebration is on the following date/location (Please share with others):
Date: Wednesday, June 14, 2023
Location: Judah Temple A.M.E. Zion Church 14500 Mt. Oak Road Mitchellville, MD 20721
Visitation
Time: 10:00 am – 11:00 am
Funeral Service
Time: 11:00 am – 1:00 pm
Watch service via Online Streaming:
The Legacy of Ms. Keaira Cornecia Chiquita Simpkins
Keaira Cornecia Chiquita Simpkins, 31 years old, transitioned to her heavenly home on Friday, June 2, 2023, at Howard County Hospital.
Keaira made a grand entrance into this life on Wednesday, April 1, 1992, at Prince George’s Community Hospital in Cheverly, MD, to Jeanette Chiquita Simpkins and Cornelius Beidleman. Keaira was committed to excellence! She earned her High School Diploma from Glen Burnie High school in Glen Burnie, MD. She attended the illustrious Howard University studying Economics and earning a Bachelor of Science degree in 2017. Her strive for education excellence continued in the pursuit and graduated with her Master of Science degree in Supply Chain Management from the University of Maryland, Global Campus in 2021. Keaira was career driven and referred to herself as “Boss Lady." She worked for University of Maryland, Global Campus as a Senior Veterans Affairs Analyst. As a driven career woman, Keaira advanced in her career becoming a Senior Consultant at Deloitte and Touche; one of the most prestigious audit and financial services companies in the world. Throughout her studies and career, she was committed to achieving excellence and was recognized for her outstanding work ethic. Keaira was the best of both worlds, beauty and brains.
Keaira’s greatest joys were her family and friends, whom she loved spending time with for game nights, outings, and holidays. Keaira undoubtedly loved her family. She especially cherished being a role model to her younger brother Prince Abraham and sharing her favorite pastime of listening to music and creating experiences together. Keaira was a spontaneous and wildly adventurous person who loved to travel. She was truly a determined young woman and did not allow anyone to hinder her goals. Keaira would be seen studying, helping others achieve their academic success, and planning her own entrepreneurial efforts. In 2019, she officially launched her famous banana pudding business. SHE DID NOT SHARE HER RECIPE! She was passionate about being an entrepreneur and supporting black owned businesses.
Keaira was a proud member of Judah Temple AME Zion, under the leadership of Pastor Scot C. Moore. As a woman of faith, she loved the Lord and was a true believer in Jesus Christ. She was truly a kindred spirit and made time to give back to the community. She often volunteered with non-profit organizations such as So Others Might Eat (S.O.M.E) and Delta Sigma Theta Incorporated in community activities. She was an influencer and loved cultivating positive and long-lasting relationships. Keaira was a charter member of the Vanessa Burchett Sister Circle that was created to, for and about “Living Black in America” through the lens of professional black women. As the youngest in the group, she was affectionately called “Baby Ke” by members in the circle.
Keaira is preceded in death by two grandfathers, Oscar Coney and Calvin Beidleman, II. She is survived by her loving and devoted parents, Chiquita Crenshaw (Marcus) and Cornelius Beidleman (Shantia); one brother, Prince Abraham Oluwaseyi Ajao; one stepsister Kiara Gater; grandparents, Janie Simpkins, Delono Hutton and Howard Hutton; two aunts, Telina Rosemond and Janie J Simpkins; four uncles, Oscar Martel Coney, Calvin Beidleman, III, Raymond Rosemond and Corey Beidleman; one niece, Ava Gater; a host of cousins, and many loving friends.
Keaira was full of life and made it very clear that life was to be lived! Our beloved daughter, sister, granddaughter, cousin, and friend Keaira will be forever missed with memories cherished in our hearts.
The family extends their heartfelt appreciation for the many gestures of condolences and uplift they’ve received. Please share with others. God Bless