KIEUNNA SHANTEE BOYKIN

Kieunna “Kiki” Shante Boykin passed away unexpectedly on October 7, 2025, just two months before her 50th birthday. Born in Lufkin, Texas, and raised in Dallas, Kiki was a radiant light — selfless, kind, creative, and endlessly giving. Standing 4’11”, she carried a spirit far larger than life, known for her compassion, humor, and tireless drive to help others.

A gifted artist, baker, chef, and entrepreneur, Kiki studied Art and later earned degrees in Baking and Culinary Arts. She founded Finer Things Photography and Finer Things Events, combining her love of beauty, creativity, and connection. She also volunteered her photography talents at The Potter’s House and worked alongside Michelin-starred Chef John Tesar, bringing her trademark tenacity and grace to every endeavor.

Kiki’s curiosity led her around the world — from Jamaica to Egypt — where her warmth and smile touched countless lives. Despite early hearing challenges, she developed extraordinary empathy, wit, and resilience. She brought people together, calmed chaos with compassion, and lived her faith daily, embodying what it meant to “do what Jesus would do.”

She is survived by her loving sister, Tamara (Boykin Weaver), mother, Gloria (McGowan Boykin Wallace — “The Boykin Girls” — a host of family, friends, and her godmother, Leela Mae Simmons, who cherished her deeply. She was preceded in death by her father, Fred (Boykin). Though her light has left this world, the warmth of her spirit continues to shine in all who knew her.

In honoring her memory, a wake service will be held on October 21st, 2025, from 6-7 PM at Golden Gate Funeral Home-Dallas (Allene), located at 4155 S R. L. Thornton Fwy., Dallas, TX 75224. The following day, October 22nd, 2025, a funeral service will take place at The Potter’s House, 6777 W. Kiest Blvd., Dallas, TX 75236, with family fellowship and final viewing at 10am, and the funeral at 11am.