Towanda Y. Chesley

TOWANDA YVETTE CHESLEY was born on October 25, 1965 to Joyce Giles and the late Pat Lynn; and raised along with her devoted stepfather, Haywood (Nick) Nickels at a young age. She was the eldest of two daughters. On December 3, 2024, she departed this life suddenly after prolonged health challenges. Towanda was raised in Baltimore and graduated from Perry Hall High School in 1983. On June 28, 1987, Towanda married Eric Chesley. This 22-year union was blessed with two beloved children, Erica and Derrick. Erica and Derrick were the center of her life. She was excited to embark on motherhood and nothing was more special than giving birth to her daughter and two years later, her son. She had the best of both worlds. As a loving mother, Towanda was always there to listen and offer support to her children. Towanda had a kind spirit and had a gift of making people laugh and smile. She showed amazing grace and remarkable strength. As a military family, they traveled throughout the country and abroad to Germany, Derrick’s birthplace. Upon return to the United States, Towanda continued her career in retail and retired from the retail industry after 40 years of dedicated service. At a young age, Towanda enjoyed skating with her sister Leah. In her leisure time, Towanda enjoyed listening to her favorite artist, Prince, watching game tv shows, gathering collectibles, and hosting family and friends for game night. She had a special interest for collecting beanie babies. Towanda shared a unique and deep emotional bond with her mother. Being neighbors to her mother provided pleasure like none other, allowing access to her mother’s joy and love freely. From Towanda’s birth to her transition, Joyce, has always been there, for and with Towanda. Their rooted connection was truly a forever masterpiece. On June 8, 2011, Towanda welcomed her first granddaughter, Desai Chesley who she adored endlessly. Towanda’s love for her family was eternal. Towanda was preceded in death by her dad, Pat Lynn; grandmother, Leah P. Giles; grandfather, Gerald Giles; and seven aunts and uncles. She leaves to cherish her memory: her mother, Joyce Giles; stepfather, Haywood (Nick) Nickels; daughter, Erica Yvette Chesley-Bogues; son, Derrick Alvin Chesley; granddaughter, Desai Chesley; sister, Leah Giles; a niece Marlene Giles; and an aunt, Anita Giles. Towanda also leaves behind to cherish one daughter-in-law, Diedre Chesley-Bogues; best friend, Danielle Jennings-Carter; godson, Noah

Tributes

Towanda Y. Chesley

October 25, 1965 - December 3, 2024