Jakita Shelyse Brown

Jakita Shelise Brown was born on March 6, 1988, in Kenosha, Wisconsin, to Elizabeth “Roberta” Brown and James Taylor, and transitioned from this life on March 10, 2026. From a young age, Jakita displayed a vibrant spirit, a kind heart, and a natural ability to bring joy to those around her.

Jakita received her education through the Vigo County School Corporation and was a proud graduate of Terre Haute South Vigo High School.

From Kenosha to Terre Haute, one thing was certain — Jakita Brown’s presence was always noticed wherever she went. Jakita was fire. Not a flicker, not a spark, but an inextinguishable flame. Jakita burned bright, drawing everyone in. Jakita burned warm, wrapping those she loved in comfort. Jakita was a fire that could not be contained — her energy, her laughter, and her love filled every room she entered.

Whether it was her infectious laughter, her signature greeting that every girlfriend knew and loved, or her ability to turn any ordinary moment into an unforgettable memory, Jakita was one of a kind. Bold, confident, and unapologetically herself. If you were part of her squad, Jakita had your back a thousand times over. Jakita had a fire in her that drew people in — a natural “it factor” that she never had to force. Jakita knew exactly who she was, and she walked in that truth every single day. Small but mighty, Jakita was a force that could not be ignored.

Jakita was a self-made beautician with a creative eye that could transform any look. She was known for braiding hair, and especially her children’s hair, in intricate, show-stopping designs, as well as doing her own stunning hairstyles. Jakita’s truest gift — the one that set her apart from the time she was a little girl — was dancing. Jakita was a dancing machine. She could watch the superstars perform and have their dance moves down pat. Jakita was so saucy with her dancing — once she added her own flavor, it became entirely hers. Jakita’s natural born talent was undeniable — the kind that belonged on any stage, behind any artist. As a young lady and even into her adulthood, Jakita participated in many dance-offs and of course walked away the winner, exuding nothing but pure confidence. Dance was her language, and she spoke it fluently.

Jakita was preceded in death by her beloved sister, Jawashela Sherrill Brown; her maternal grandparents, Sarah P. Brown and Cleaveland Brown Sr.; her paternal grandmother, Lottamae Lambert; several aunts; and two uncles.

Jakita leaves to cherish her memory: her mother, Elizabeth “Roberta” Brown; her father, James Taylor; her five beautiful children, Zy’Eiar White, Za’Nariae White, Za’Mai White, Zy’Vion White, and Zae’Van White; two nephews, Tommy and Tavion Cockrell; bonus children, Rosa White III and Dalaysia White; her aunt, Glenda (James) Grady; her uncles, Thomas Grisom, Cleaveland (Judy) Brown Jr., Hugh Herschel Thornton, and Felton Johnson; her special sister and cousin, Tammy Scott; and a host of loving cousins, extended family, and dear friends.

The world is a colder, darker place now that this flame is gone — but Jakita’s fire lives on in every life she touched, every heart she warmed, and every soul she set ablaze with love. Rest well in God’s arms KI-KI. #KitaTheFlame  #JusticeForJakita

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