T'Naysha Merre Sanders-Austin

On March 21, 2004, a beautiful light entered the world when T'Naysha Merre Sanders Austin was born to Royce Austin Jr. and Tiffani Sanders (Howard). Though her earthly journey ended far too soon on August 29, 2026, at the age of 22, the love, joy, and laughter she shared will remain forever in the hearts of all who knew her. T'Naysha had a smile that could brighten any room and a spirit that drew people close. She found happiness in life's simple moments: listening to music, watching movies, spending time with family, and sending her mom funny TikTok and Instagram reels almost every day. She had a special gift for making people laugh, especially when playfully roasting her younger sister. Whether gathered around family celebrations or enjoying time with friends, T'Naysha cherished the people she loved and never took those relationships for granted. Some of T'Naysha's fondest memories were from her time at Roosevelt School of the Arts in Milwaukee and the encouragement she received from educators who recognized her potential and believed in her dreams. Their guidance helped shape the compassionate young woman she became and inspired her desire to work with children. Those mentors eventually became lifelong family friends, a testament to the connections she valued so deeply. After graduating from Bay View High School, T'Naysha enrolled at Milwaukee Area Technical College to pursue a degree in Early Childhood Education. Her passion for helping young people led her to serve with City Year Milwaukee, where she took great pride in encouraging students and helping them stay on track toward their goals. She often joked that her small stature and youthful appearance made her look like one of the middle school students she worked with, and her laughter was contagious whenever she shared that story. Faith was an important part of T'Naysha's life. At a young age, she dedicated her life to Christ under the leadership of Bishop Anthony Oliphant Sr. at Thrive Church. In June 2026, she joyfully rededicated her life to Christ after joining Divine Temple Church of Christ under the leadership of Bishop Albert L. Tatum Sr. She was excited about her spiritual growth and looked forward to deepening her walk with God. Those closest to her witnessed a renewed sense of purpose, peace, and joy in her life. While her years with us were far too few, T'Naysha's impact was immeasurable. She taught us the value of laughter, the importance of family, the beauty of friendship, and the power of showing up for the people we love. Though we grieve her absence, we celebrate the blessing of having known her. Her smile lives on in our memories, her love remains in our hearts, and her spirit continues to inspire us. T'Naysha will forever be cherished by her loving parents, Tiffani and Tyrone Howard, and her father, Royce Austin Jr. She leaves to honor her memory her siblings: Shauntavia Keys, Darius Stevenson, Yanni Austin, Tre'von Sanders, Michael Howard, Christian Sanders, Rayne Sanders, and Royce Alexander; along with a host of beloved aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, dear friends, church family, mentors, and all whose lives were touched by her kindness and love.