“She Touched So Many”: Birmingham Woman Mourned After Sudden Death at 32

BIRMINGHAM, AL — A tight-knit community is in mourning after the tragic passing of Chaundra Sharmane Jefferson, a 32-year-old woman remembered for her vibrant spirit, deep faith, and unwavering love for her family and community. She passed away on Saturday, July 6, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, humor, and service.

Born on February 14, 1993, in Birmingham, Alabama, Chaundra brought joy from the moment she entered the world. Her mother, Rhonda Maria Jefferson, and father, Clifford Holmes Jr., remember her as a deeply caring daughter who was always eager to help others. “Her laughter filled every room. She loved hard, and she gave even harder,” Rhonda shared in a heartfelt message to those attending her funeral.

Chaundra’s faith was the foundation of her life. She accepted Jesus Christ at a young age while attending First Baptist Kingston with her beloved grandmother, Queenie “Shengi” Jefferson, who preceded her in death. That early faith followed her into adulthood as she later worshipped at Faith Empowerment Church and then Rebirth Christian Fellowship, where she remained an active member under the guidance of Pastors Doug and Shay Taylor.

She was a graduate of Spain Park High School and Woodlawn High School, where she stood out not only as a student but also as a loyal friend and teammate. Always quick with a joke or words of encouragement, Chaundra had the ability to brighten even the darkest moments.

In recent months, Chaundra had been preparing to fulfill a dream she held dear—becoming a police officer. After passing the ACT WorkKeys Assessment, she planned to apply with the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department. Her goal was to give back to the community that raised her by protecting and serving it.

On October 23, 2023, Chaundra married the love of her life, Shauntil “Tilly” Vines, in a ceremony that reflected the deep connection they shared. “She was the light of my life. We had dreams, and she carried them in her heart every day,” Vines said.

Chaundra’s death has shaken many, especially her close friends and family, who gathered Saturday, July 20, for a funeral service at a Birmingham funeral chapel. The service, followed by a repast, was an opportunity for those whose lives she touched to share stories, express their grief, and honor her joyful memory.

“She had a way of making everyone feel special, seen, and loved,” said her longtime friend Kenyatta Mayes, who described Chaundra as a sister in every way except blood.

In a message to attendees, her mother, Rhonda, asked that the service be treated with dignity and that all guests abide by the printed order of events. “This pain is unlike anything I’ve felt,” she wrote, adding, “But I’m comforted knowing my baby is with King Jesus. Her grandma has her now, and they’re rejoicing.”

Chaundra is survived by her spouse, Shauntil Vines; her mother, Rhonda Jefferson; her father, Clifford Holmes Jr.; brothers Corey (Asonya) Jefferson of Virginia and Corey Mitchell of Birmingham; sisters Jaylin, Kaylin, and Jabria Thomas, and Shodavia Jackson, all of Birmingham; her best friends, Kenyatta Mayes and Anthony Tart; as well as a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her great-grandparents, Alberta and Ben Jefferson; her grandparents, Queenie Jefferson, Nathan Elmore Sr., and Gwendolyn Holmes; and several aunts and uncles.

As the community reflects on Chaundra’s short but impactful life, her family is encouraging others to remember her by spreading joy, faith, and kindness—just as she always did.

“She is free now. And though I hurt beyond words, I know she’s with Jesus. She’ll never be forgotten,” her mother said.

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