Myrtis Tinsley was born to Juanita Tinsley Davis on June 2, 1956, in Byromville, Georgia. As the second
oldest of four children, she immediately felt protected by her older sister and doted on her younger
siblings. Myrtis moved to Washington, DC in 1969 where she joined her beloved family and went on to
gradate from Wilson Senior High School in 1976
Myrtis was a devoted mother who exemplified what it means to have unconditional love for your child.
Myrtis held a special place in the hearts of those who knew her. Behind those beautiful, bright eyes and
endearing smile, was a woman who understood what it meant to cherish life and what it took to push
through, even in the hardest times. She had a way of connecting to her loved ones that made them feel so
special and appreciated. Whether it was on a car ride, during Christmas dinner, or just sitting with her,
Myrtis found something to laugh about and would get anyone around to join in on the laughter. While
Myrtis was known for her calm demeanor, you also knew not to mess with her or anyone close to her
because she would protect her loved ones at any cost. Myrtis had an unparalleled inner strength that
carried her throughout her life; enabling her to beat so many odds and embody what it means to truly
know God’s grace. She was gracious, strong-willed, genuine, and warmhearted, leaving so many people’s
lives fuller than they would have been had they not known her.
Myrtis is preceded in death by her mother, Juanita Tinsley Davis; grandmother, Addie Hall Tinsley; sister,
Rosa Mae Tinsley; aunt, Millie Tinsley Smith; cousin/sister, Arlene Tinsley; and beloved cousin, Janice
Hill. Myrtis leaves to cherish her life, a beloved daughter, Kenitra Tinsley; a sister Beverly Powers
(Jimmy) of Atlanta, GA; a brother, Kenneth Tinsley of Washington, DC and Anthony Shumpert of
Columbus, GA; a niece, Breneata Spivey of Washington, DC; a loving great-nephew, Marquel Spivey of
Washington, DC seven nephews, Antonio Powers (Michelle), LeVar Tinsley (Johnetta), Nicholas Tinsley
(Kristen), Montreal Powers (Niecy), Christopher Tinsley (Starr), Antwan Tinsley (Tameka) and Jamal
Powers (Shan) of Atlanta, GA; 16 great nieces and nephews; a favorite cousin, Brenda Smith; very close
friends, Rosa Barnes, William Sexton, Virginia Wood and Keith Gilliam; goddaughter, Raven Bulford and
a host of close family and friends.