Life is a fleeting, feigned, existence mired by our experiences. Preface by our birth, punctuated by our death. To summarize a life in a few short sentences is impossible. You can never capsulate the precious, intangible moments that has existed within a life. But it is with that intention, that we send Home our Queen Mother home.

Jacqueline Branson, born December 26th, 1954 on Chicago's south side, was the only girl of four children of her mother's, Jacqueline. Her mother died when Jacqueline was five, and with no father present, life would be very hard for the Branson children. But Jacqueline (Jackie) was a fighter.

She fought to survive her childhood. As an adult, she fought to survive homelessness, working a Day Labor just to provide for her own children, Robert and Kizzy, before finding long-term employment at the Hilton. She would spend the next 26 years at the Hilton, working tirelessly, every day. When she began to develop cancerous tumors that racked her body, leaving her an immense physical pain, she fought through the pain and never missed a day's work.

When the doctor's informed her that she wouldn't make it through the night, she fought. Making it one more day, to return home to her daughter. A life spent fighting just to survive, Jackie never truly lived. But she taught her children a valuable lesson, leaving an indelible mark on this world, in the hearts of those who carry on her legacy.

She is remembered by her daughter, Kizzy Hister; grand children Ciara, Jasmine, Jackie, Emani,and Robert; Great Grandsons, Kendric, Kayden and her son, Robert. A life, hard fought to just be, with a legacy of perseverance, courage, and strength of will. Forever in our hearts, Jacqueline Branson.

Away now, from the physical pain this life brings, into the bosom of the ancestors. Reunited with your mother, and at peace with the world. Pain free, you may put down sword and shield and be at ease, Queen. The battle is won, and you are victorious. Trumpets sound at your arrival, a warrior queen has returned home, having done her duty.

Rest now, for you have earned your paradise. Your children may mourn, but will never forget, the love you showed, the teachings you taught, the life you led, and the memories you leave behind. Your legacy lives on, and you memory hangs in eternal glory. The path has been paved, though a new journey starts for you, we will continue this path of life, until such time comes we are reunited, in your warm embrace.

Forever in our hearts

A letter to Mama, dictated by Kizzy Hister, penned by Damian Campbell