Sharkeya Jania Portis

Sharkeya Maddox Portis, affectionately known as "Keya," was born in Akron, Ohio on March 4, 1980, to Carrie Maddox and Michael Cosey. She was a proud graduate of Buchtel High School, Class of 1998. With a passion for learning and helping others, she furthered her education at Kent State University before earning her Associate of Applied Science in Medical Assisting from Fortis College in August 2012.

Keya was a kind, caring, and selfless soul, known for her radiant smile that lit up any room. She was always one call away, always willing to help anyone in need. To know her was to know that was just her heart—her nature—to be of service to others. She dedicated many years to assisting her mother in raising foster children, embodying her spirit of compassion and generosity. Keya inherited her mother’s spirit of generosity, always willing to lend a helping hand. Just like her mother, she had a heart for service.

A woman of many talents, she poured love into her craft, from creating personalized memorabilia to baking delicious, sweet treats for her business, A&A Creations. She was also deeply devoted to her work at Next to Kin Supportive Services, where she provided compassionate care for adults living with physical and mental challenges. Her dedication to uplifting and supporting others was a testament to her kind heart and nurturing spirit.

Above all, Keya took immense pride in being a mother, where her nurturing spirit shone brightest. The love and support she gave her children throughout the years was consistent and authentic. She never missed a game for her boys, always their biggest supporter. She was known for being the loudest one cheering them on from the sidelines at their games and in life. A true lover of family, she cherished every moment spent with family and friends, finding joy in their love and laughter.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Carrie Maddox; father, Michael Cosey; grandparents, Jimmie and Minnie Maddox, Hamilton Boykin, and Winnie Cosey; sister, Shanisha Hooks; and special aunts, Bertha Maddox and Eliza Skipper.

Keya leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion, survived by her husband, Antonio Portis; her beloved sons, Antonio Portis Jr. and Anthony Portis; her sister, Shamese “Bubbles” Maddox (Whitney Jackson); her brother, Shawn Craig; and her sister, Sherhonda Hooks. She is also survived by her mother-in-law, Joyce Portis; brothers-in-law, Richard, Antione, and Eugene Portis; her bonus daughter, Lakeya Matthews; and her bonus granddaughter, Aliyah Smith.

Her love extended to her godchildren, Rayona Rogers-Trice and Xavier Rogers-Corn; her sistergirlfriends, Robin Rogers and Jameka Wilson; and her dear cousin, Lucshunda Blackwell. She will be deeply missed by a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and countless family members and friends who were touched by her warmth and kindness.

Keya’s love, laughter, and light will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew her.

She gave with love, she gave with grace,A heart so kind, a warm embrace.No need too small, no task too great,She lifted others with her faith.

Her hands would work, her heart would shine,A soul so selfless, love divine.Though now she rests in peaceful light,Her giving spirit still burns bright.

2 Timothy 4:7

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.