On the sunny spring day of April 14, 1952, the free and gentle flower, Malka Bracey was born to Ethel (Momma E) Bracey and James (Lovey) Kemp, in Harlem New York.
As a young curious, loving spirit, Malka was baptized and attended St. Aloysius Church. She was educated in the NYC Public School System and attended P.S 68, James Finmoore Cooper JHS and Seward Park High School.
Malka always had a deep appreciation for the arts and loved music, singing and dancing, She joined the “UBA” in her beloved Harlem community where she gleefully took part in the fun of being a teen Harlemite. A highlight of joining the “UBA” was the chances to march in what is now known as the Annual African American Day Parade on Seventh Avenue in the Heart of Harlem. Malka and her “UBA” crew stepped high and rhythmically in polished bright white boots, adorned with Pom Pom’s with bells, as they stopped at various corners to perform choreographed dances. They sent spectators into a roar and Malka loved it (another chance to make people happy).
Our superstar Malka provided entertainment for our family during at home talent shows by dressing up and singing (usually portraying Diana Ross). We gave her standing ovations and were actually mesmerized by her performances. It wasn’t unusual to walk into the living room and find that she had rearrange the furniture to make space to choreograph or rehearse modern and African dances.
Always a versatile and quick learner, Malka worked at “Rikers Island Prison” as well as in the NYC fashion district at “Stanley Pleating & Stitching” as a Bookkeeper. In 2003, Malka moved to Norfolk, VA and obtained a position as a Property Manager for “Fryed Properties.” It didn’t take long for Malka to make new friends in VA, among them was Clarence (Juicy) Smith whom she joined in Marriage on July 3, 2005. Together Malka and Juice enjoyed attending Norfolk States University’s football games and other events. They spent Friday nights at their favorite night club “Upscales” where Malka graced the dance floor in her well fashioned outfits and high heeled shoes.
Malka was always very compassionate and giving. She would go to any measure to assist and comfort others. She loved to cook and consistently opened her home to others, preparing and sharing food (seems anyone could get fish and spaghetti at any time). She treated everyone as family. Malka had a penchant for starting a party and keeping it going. Oh, what FUN she was! Along with her passion for the arts, she was also an avid sports fan (particularly basketball and football). Malka was a GRAND grandmother to her grandchildren and the children of the community, frequently taking them (and her nephews and nieces) to parks and other fun venues. They strutted through the streets as Malka used call and response saying, “LET’S ROCK” the children responded, “AND ROLL”, she’d say “HEAD EM’ UP” and they responded (as they clutched hands) “MOVE EM’ OUT”.
Our free and gentle flower blossomed throughout her lifetime. Malka transitioned on Friday, November 25, 2023, at Sentara Leigh Kempsville Hospital in Norfolk, Virginia, while surrounded and serenaded by her children, grandchildren, and other family members. Our hearts are heavy, but we are blessed with wonderful memories and video footage of Malka.
She was preceded in death by her father, James “lovey” Kemp; one daughter Damaris, and one grandson Derrick. Forever cherishing Malka’s love and fun uplifting nature are her husband, Clarence (Juicy) Smith; mother/family matriarch, Ethel (Momma E) Bracey; children, Billy, Lolita, Markena, Shaquana and Briarsha; grandchildren, Daquasha, Kiaira, Diondre, Mikey, Bryce, Dijon, McKenzie, Ma’Kaylah, Bouche; great-grandchildren, Dream and Skylar; god children, Michael, Michelle, Lynette, Freddy and Joy; bonus children, Jineen, Dwight, Dennis and Brandon; 23 sibilings, special friends, Angela Geth, Angie Smith, Charlie, Matt, Linda, Beverly, Reggie, Joyce and Gale and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Rest well, carry on Malka. We love and miss you dearly.
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Previous Clarice Arlene Gregory
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Brenda Hayes says
November 28, 2023 at 11:22 pmFarewell my friend, will truly miss you, no more phone calls and watching you dance.
No more pain. Love you
Brenda Hayes says
November 28, 2023 at 11:23 pmFarewell my friend, you will truly be miss.
No more pain. Love you
Myisha Thompson says
November 29, 2023 at 9:01 amFarewell my other mother, my dearest friend you took me under your wing as one of your own. My heart hurts and the tears want stop. I will truly miss you so much and our long conversation and the laughter we shared over the phone, you will truly be miss. Love Myisha
Frances Chavous says
November 29, 2023 at 9:15 amLove, prayers and condolences to the family in your time of grief and loss. May God bless and keep you in his arms.
Lesher Franklin says
November 29, 2023 at 11:39 amOur condolence to the family. We know she was well loved and will be truly missed. We will keep the family in our prayers! Rev. 21:3,4.
Loretta White says
November 29, 2023 at 11:39 amDear family,
Malka will be missed greatly. Her beautiful spirit and positive outlook has been with us from childhood through adulthood. I will always remember playing board games, jacks and having a fun time at her home way back in the day. Hugs and kisses to the Bracey family forever❤️❤️❤️
Angela Hunt Geth says
November 30, 2023 at 9:02 pmYour Spirit will live on:
Every time I dance
Every time I laugh
Every time I can smile when I am sick
Every time i go beyond the call of duty to care for someone when I need care for myself
Every time I make time for others even though I’m tired
Every time I overcome sickness.
I will always love you, my everlasting friend, despite of my wavering ways that you tolerated
Joyce Goodman says
November 30, 2023 at 9:58 pmMalka was one of Life’s Best gift. She was loving, caring, thoughtful and always a special part of your Life. Malka was a Blessing and treasure like no other. I’m grateful that life picked me to be a part of your Life!
Joyce Goodman says
November 30, 2023 at 10:01 pmNov. 30, 2023
Malka was one of Life’s Best gift. She was loving, caring, thoughtful and always a special part of your Life. Malka was a Blessing and treasure like no other. I’m grateful that life picked me to be a part of your Life! Love you. May you Rest in Heavenly Peace!
Markena says
June 11, 2024 at 4:23 pmI miss you Mommy!
Jineen says
November 12, 2024 at 3:04 amAs the 1yr mark approaches, it still feels unreal. I still have to stop myself from calling knowing you won’t physically answer. But I know your spirit hears me. Still broken. 💔