Maryland-born reality TV star of the WE tv reality series, Braxton Family Values, philanthropist, singer, and radio personality, Traci Braxton passed away at the age of 50 years old after battling cancer. On March 12, 2022, an official statement presented by Braxton’s publicist verified her passing.
“We have come to a time where we must inform the public that after a year of privately undergoing a series of treatment for Esophageal cancer our beloved Traci Braxton has gone on to glory,” Braxton’s husband, Kevin Surratt said in the press release.
Family members, including Braxton’s son, Kevin Surratt Jr. posted heartfelt sentiments on Instagram.
“When I heard the news about my mother being sick first thing she said was I’m going to fight and beat this. She fought to the end and today she’s at peace. I love my mother forever and this hurts so much but I’m at peace knowing she’s isn’t in pain anymore. I love you ma I’m going to miss you.”
Fans, networks, countless celebrities, and public figures including Toni Braxton—who is Traci’s famous sister— are sharing memories and hurt over the devastating loss on social media platforms.
Toni is regarded as one of the top best-selling, female R&B artists due to winning Grammy and Billboard Music Awards. Tamar, Towanda, and Trina Braxton are the remaining sisters who are also known for their vocal aptitude, in addition to Traci. The accomplished siblings from Severn, Md. who were known for singing in their church choir were apart of “The Braxtons” singing group.
“Yet, when Toni was signed as a solo artist in 1991, Traci and their sisters joined her as background singers on her first tour. In 1996, Traci took a break from music to become a mother,” VIBE reported.
Traci was sometimes referred to as a “wanna be,” but a plethora of others regarded her as a down-to-earth woman who evoked smiles, chuckles, and someone who had a passion for community involvement. Her lesser-known connections included Saving Our Daughters, Inc., membership in Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, and being a part of a women’s cancer foundation, according to a 2013 interview with Grove Street Ezine. The crab and motorcycle lover was far more than the person who was often portrayed in bits and pieces. She also mentioned how close she was to opening up a salon.
Ironically, a cervical cancer scare, and the importance of women getting pap smears and mammograms were more topics of conversation. Ironically, Traci remarked that she prayed for a day that there would be a cure for all cancers and diseases.
“Humans are going through a whole lot these days. You’ve got hatred. You’ve got wars and things like that. Maybe if everybody could get together and be happy, maybe some of these illnesses wouldn’t consume our bodies. Just be aware of your body and listen to it. Listen to other people when they see something is going on with you and you’re in denial and don’t want to listen to them,” Traci said.
She also mentioned how proud she is of her sisters. No jealousy interfered with their relationships, despite whatever some reality show viewers may have believed.
“I love my sisters. I’m very proud of all of them. And I’m a fan of my mother, my father, and my brother. Stop already. You want to draw drama to us. Yes, sometimes we don’t get along, but we still love each other just as hard,” Traci also said. “What I can say to women today that have families is keep your family close. Always love your family.”
True to her words, her family and friends were present when she passed away, according to the press release about the woman who many feel is gone too soon.
The Baltimore Times extends heartfelt condolences to Traci’s family, friends, and fans.