Thomasina Braxton

We gather here today to celebrate the life and legacy of Thomasina Braxton, affectionately known to us all as Tina. Born on June 8th, 1942, to Rosabell Shepherd and Thomas Shepherd, and called home on March 1st, 2026, Tina’s journey was marked by deep love, unwavering devotion, and remarkable creativity. She was one of nine siblings, with seven brothers and one sister, all of whom preceded her in death. Tina leaves behind to mourn her beloved sister (best friend), Joanne Henry Requett. Tina was a devoted Catholic who loved the Lord and professed Jesus Christ as her Savior, a faith that guided her throughout her life.

Tina grew up in the Bronx, New York, and in the early 1960s, she moved to Queens with her then-husband, Norris Diggs, and their young family. They later purchased a home in Saint Albans, Queens, where Tina became deeply involved in civic organizations—serving as a Girl Scout leader for many years, participating in the local Democratic Club, and lending her voice to the St. Catherine of Sienna Choir. She was also a dedicated community member, serving on the Board of the Theatre of Dance Movement and Cultural Arts. Tina began her career at the Ideal Toy Factory and worked for 30 years with the City of New York Housing Preservation and Development, where she served as a shop steward for her union, DC37, Local 1549, before retiring.

Tina’s family was at the heart of everything she did. She was a beloved mother to Diane Hinton and son-in-law Jefforey Hinton (both of whom preceded Tina in death), Debrah Baker and son-in-law David Baker, Nostran Diggs, Delores Floyd and son-in-law Leon Anderson, Dorenda Diggs, Ingrid Braxton, and George Diggs and his spouse Linda Hunstein, as well as her bonus daughter, Carolyn Beasley. Tina maintained a close bond with Brian Daughtry and Uvette Diggs.

Her legacy continues through her grandchildren: John and Patty Hinton, Ezaakk and Tauheedah Diggs, Elizabeth and Carlyle Williams, Christina Hinton, Danielle and Tyrone Sanders, Nichelle Diggs, Brittany and Andrew Chambers, Hadass Kinard-Baker, Matthew Anderson, Connor and Sarah Hinton, Tanae Anderson, Michael Hinton, Joshua Anderson, Marcus Anderson, and Mikaella Diggs.

Tina was also the proud great-grandmother to Katelynn Hinton, Noah Williams, Israel Kinard-Baker, Madison Diggs, Lucille Sanders, Penelope Williams, Adam Haney Jr., Lyla Hinton, Owen Hinton, Celine Williams, Dwayne Sanders, Cali Hinton, Leilani Chambers, Lynn Richardson, and the awaited Baby Chambers, due in May 2026. Her great-grandchildren lovingly called her GG-ma or MeMaw, a testament to the special place she held in their hearts.

Tina’s nurturing spirit leaves a lasting imprint on each of us, and her love for her family was boundless. She leaves behind her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren; three sisters-in-law; godchildren; a host of nieces and nephews to whom she was an amazing aunt; and cousins and friends. Tina was also, at times, a second mom to many extended family members, always offering support, kindness, and love.

Tina’s voice brought joy to many as she sang with passion in the St. Catherine of Siena and the Sister Thea Bowman Mass Choir. Her music was more than melody; it was an expression of her soul, filling the hearts of those who heard her with comfort and inspiration.

A gifted seamstress, Tina poured her artistry into every garment she created. Weddings, proms, and countless special occasions were made more memorable by her loving hands. She didn’t just make clothes—she crafted memories for her family, friends, and her beloved Theater of Dance Movement family, designing costumes that brought their performances to life.

The family would like to thank Tina’s extended caregivers: her niece, Michael Braxton, her granddaughter Elizabeth Hinton, and Narda Martin. Their care and kindness brought comfort to Tina and meant so much to the family.

Tina’s legacy is woven into the fabric of our lives—in the songs she sang, the garments she made, and the love she gave so freely. Though we miss her dearly, we give thanks for the time we shared, the lessons she taught, and the example she set. Now, Tina is at peace with her Father God, watching over all of us. She would want us to remember all the great memories and to take care of each other—or, as she might lovingly say, y’all better stick together or you’ll get a what-for from above! May we honor her by carrying forward her compassion, her creativity, and her love for the Lord.

Visitation will be held at R. Stutzmann & Son, 224-39 Jamaica Ave, Queens Village, NY 11428, US, on March 8, 2026, from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm, with a live stream available at https://fweb.tv/240560.

A Closing Prayer Service will take place at R. Stutzmann & Son, 224-39 Jamaica Ave, Queens Village, NY 11428, US, on March 8, 2026, at 1:00 pm.