Sheila A. Braxton

Obituary For Sheila A. Braxton

It is with heavy hearts, yet with hope in eternal life, that we announce the passing of Sheila A. Braxton, a beloved daughter, sister, mother, and grandmother, who departed this life peacefully on August 28, 2025, at the age of 76, in her residence engulfed in the love of her family. Born on December 26, 1948, in Youngstown, Ohio, to the union of Helen Bradley and Sellers Barnett, Sheila was a lifelong resident of the city that she loved deeply. Her warmth, kindness, and unwavering spirit touched the lives of many.

A proud South High School alumna, Sheila dedicated her professional career as an assembler in the auto manufacturing industry, proudly working for General Motors. Her strong work ethic and commitment to her job reflected her resilience and determination. She cherished the many friendships she formed during her years in the workforce.

Faith was paramount in her life’s journey and was involved in various ministries at Greater Friendship Baptist Church. Sheila’s favorite color was hues of blue, a reflection of her calm and tranquil spirit. She touched the lives of so many, and her legacy of love and compassion will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of all who knew her.

Sheila’s family was her greatest joy, and she instilled in them the values of love, kindness, and perseverance. Her legacy is entrusted to her devoted daughters, Yalonda E. Braxton and Rhonda M. Braxton; son, Hershaun L. Gardner; and cherished sisters, Peggy A. Campbell, Celestine "Cookie" (Roy) Veal, Janice Barnett, and Lillie (Rev. Hosea) Ekong.

Sheila was also a loving grandmother to four grandchildren—Sheleia, Ryan, Joshua, Justin—and a great-grandmother to Ariana, Sa'Niyah, Dominic, Marilyn, and King Jelani. Sheila’s memory will be sustained by a special friend Thomas "Buddy" Spivey, along with a cadre of family and friends mutually loved by her.

As Sheila crossed the celestial sands into eternity, she was reunited with her parents, sister Rhonda M. Hogan and brothers Wayne "Butch" Bradley, Kenneth N. Bradley, William Bradley, Tyrone S. Hogan- all who preceded her death.

As we mourn the loss of such a remarkable woman, let us also honor the indelible impact she made on our lives. In recognition of Sheila's life, a public viewing will be held at Greater Friendship Missionary Baptist Church, 646 Lakewood Ave, on Monday September 8, 2025, at 10:00 AM. The Celebration of Life Service will begin at 11:00 AM with Pastor James C. Bowie officiating.

Following the committal ceremony, Sheila will be laid to rest at Tod Homestead Cemetery. She will be remembered with love and in the hearts of all who have had the privilege of knowing her.

The family respectfully requests that in lieu of floral tributes, consideration of sharing a charitable donation in Sheila’s memory to a nonprofit organization or foundation which serves area children and youth are appreciated.

At this time of intimate need and personal loss, the family of Sheila A. Braxton elected to entrust the Ministry of Comfort & Care, along with Transitional After-Care Arrangements to the J. E. Washington Funeral Services, 2234 Glenwood Avenue, Youngstown, Ohio, 330.782.8500.

Our Memories Build a Special Bridge

When loved ones have to part,
To help us feel we’re with them still,
And soothe a grieving heart.
They span the years and warm our lives,
Preserving ties that bind.
Our memories build a special bridge,
And bring us peace of mind.