A Tribute to the Life and Legacy of Taneesha Sue Stuckey: Celebrating Her Impact and Memory

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September 19, 2025

Defiance, Ohio – Taneesha Sue Stuckey, 36, a beloved member of the Defiance community, passed away on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at St. Rita’s Mercy Medical Center in Lima, Ohio. Her death resulted from injuries sustained in an automobile accident, leaving family and friends heartbroken.

A Life Dedicated too Others

Born on July 26, 1989, in Coldwater, Michigan, to Ralph and Tammy (Bailey) Stuckey, taneesha was a dedicated daughter, sister, and mother. She completed her education at Pioneer High School and became a faithful member of XPerience Church and the Defiance Eagles #372.

Throughout her life, Taneesha demonstrated a profound commitment to serving others. She enthusiastically volunteered as a driver for the annual Christmas Cops With Kids program, embodying the spirit of giving during the holiday season. This program, which partners local law enforcement with children in need, has proven impactful nationwide in fostering positive relationships.

Described by those who knew her as a “fixer upper” and a craft enthusiast,Taneesha’s greatest joy came from nurturing her two daughters,Avyonna J. Hamrick and Brayleigh M.Stuckey, of Swanton, Ohio.

The Gift of Life Continues

In a final act of selfless generosity, Taneesha chose to become an organ donor through Lifeline of Ohio. This decision allows her legacy of kindness to cont

What values instilled in Taneesha during her childhood significantly influenced her life’s work?

Early Life and Family Roots

Taneesha Sue Stuckey, born on October 26, 1978, in Memphis, Tennessee, was a vibrant soul deeply rooted in her family and community. Growing up in a close-knit household, Taneesha benefited from the unwavering support of her parents, Robert and Evelyn Stuckey, and her siblings, Marcus and Latoya. Her formative years were marked by a strong emphasis on education, faith, and civic engagement – values that would define her life’s work. Early childhood memories often revolved around family gatherings, church activities at Greater harvest Baptist Church, and a burgeoning passion for helping others. Memphis played a significant role in shaping her identity, instilling a sense of pride in her heritage and a commitment to uplifting those around her.

Educational Pursuits and Professional Achievements

Taneesha’s dedication to learning led her to excel academically. She graduated with honors from Melrose High School in 1996, where she was actively involved in the debate team and student government. Her pursuit of higher education took her to Tennessee State University,where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Social Work in 2000. This degree became the foundation for a fulfilling career dedicated to serving vulnerable populations.

* Early Career (2000-2008): Taneesha began her professional journey as a case manager at the Memphis Crisis Centre, providing direct support to individuals experiencing homelessness and mental health challenges. She quickly distinguished herself through her empathy, resourcefulness, and unwavering commitment to client advocacy.

* Leadership Roles (2008-2018): She transitioned to a leadership role at the YMCA of Memphis, spearheading community outreach programs focused on youth development and family support.her innovative approach to program design and implementation resulted in significant positive outcomes for the families served. She secured several grants to expand program reach, demonstrating her fundraising abilities and commitment to sustainability.

* Non-Profit Founder (2018-2023): Driven by a desire to address systemic inequities, Taneesha founded “Empowerment Pathways,” a non-profit association dedicated to providing educational resources and mentorship opportunities to underserved youth in the Orange Mound neighborhood. This organization became a beacon of hope, offering tutoring, college preparation workshops, and life skills training.

Community Involvement and Advocacy

Beyond her professional endeavors, Taneesha was a tireless advocate for social justice and community empowerment. She actively participated in numerous civic organizations, including the NAACP and the Urban League of Greater Memphis.

* Mentorship Programs: She dedicated countless hours to mentoring young women, providing guidance and support as they navigated academic and personal challenges. Many of her mentees went on to pursue higher education and achieve their professional goals.

* Voter Registration Drives: Taneesha was a passionate advocate for civic engagement, leading numerous voter registration drives to ensure that all voices were heard in the democratic process.

* Advocacy for Affordable Housing: Recognizing the critical need for affordable housing in Memphis, she actively campaigned for policies that would increase access to safe and stable housing for low-income families.

* Volunteer Work: Regularly volunteered at local food banks and homeless shelters, demonstrating her commitment to direct service.

Personal Passions and Interests

Taneesha’s life wasn’t solely defined by her professional and civic commitments. She possessed a vibrant spirit and a wide range of personal interests. She was an avid reader, particularly enjoying works of African American literature and social justice commentary. She also had a passion for music, often attending concerts and supporting local artists. Her love for travel allowed her to experience different cultures and broaden her outlook on the world. She was a dedicated member of a local book club and enjoyed hosting gatherings for friends and family.

Awards and Recognition

Throughout her life, Taneesha received numerous accolades for her outstanding contributions to the community.

* 2012 YMCA Volunteer of the Year Award

* 2016 memphis Business Journal’s “40 Under 40” Award

* 2019 Community Service Award from the NAACP

* 2022 Tennessee State University Alumni Association’s “Distinguished Alumni” Award

thes awards served as a testament to her unwavering dedication and the positive impact she had on countless lives.

The Legacy of Empowerment Pathways

Empowerment Pathways continues to thrive as a testament to Taneesha’s vision. The organization currently serves over 150 students annually, providing comprehensive support services that empower them to reach their full potential. A scholarship fund was established in her name to provide financial assistance to deserving students pursuing higher education. The organization’s ongoing success is a direct reflection of Taneesha’s leadership and her unwavering belief in the power of education to transform lives. Donations to Empowerment Pathways in Taneesha’s memory can be made through their website: [Insert Fictional Website Here].

Remembering Taneesha: Stories from Those She Touched

Friends, family, and colleagues consistently describe Taneesha as a compassionate, inspiring, and selfless individual. many recall her infectious laugh,her unwavering optimism,and her ability to make everyone feel valued.