Ms. Tawanna "Nika" West

Ms. Tawanna “Nika” West of Tampa, FL passed away on Wednesday, May 21, 2025. Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, June 7, 2025, 12:00 p.m. at Peace Progressive Community Church, 2628 E. Lake Avenue, Tampa, FL 33610.

Tawanna West, affectionately known as Nika, born in Tampa, FL on September 26, 1971. She was a beloved daughter, sister, mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend whose vibrant spirit was a beacon of light that made you gravitate to her.  

A faithful member of the Peace Progressive Community church under the leadership of Elder Timothy J. Kemp, Nika served with passion and dedication as the superintendent of Sunday School. Her commitment to her faith and church family was unwavering.

Nika had a gift for bringing joy wherever she went. Known for her quick wit and infectious laughter, she could brighten any room. If you wanted to laugh and have a good time, you knew to sit next to Nika. She will be deeply missed.

She was preceded in death by: her mother, Mrs. Irene West; brother, Ulysses “C” West; sister, Barbara West-Shazer; grandparents, Mrs. Nannie Andrews, Mr. and Mrs. Horace (Callie) Andrews, and Mr. and Mrs. Ed (Hattie) West; adopted grandmother, Willie Bea Jackson; uncles, Frankie, Kenneth and Felix (Mary) Andrews, and Mack West; aunts, Lottie Thigpen, Laura Parker, and Murlean Andrews; cousins, Wanda Faye Lemon and Robert Lang; and nephew, Tyrie Gunn.

She leaves to cherish her most precious memories: her cherished children, Kassavia Hagens, and Robert Pearson Jr.; adored grandson, Ayden Jackson; a loving father, Samuel Lee West; brothers, Darrell (Talisa) West, Michael (Terri) West, and Addarryl West; sisters, Voncille Richardson and Nannett West; adopted brother, Johnnie Jackson Sr.; her church family at Peace Progressive Community Church, and the Community of Central Park Village; and a host of nieces and nephews, and many extended family members and dear friends.

Arrangements entrusted to Ray Williams Funeral Home, Rhodes & Northern, Owners.

www.raywilliamsfuneralhome.com

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