Biography: Maulana Holmes was born on October 6, 1969, at Bronx Lebanon Hospital. She was named after Dr. Maulana Karenga aka Ron Karenga, the founder of Kwanzaa, activist, author and Professor of African Studies, and Miriam Makeba, the Grammy Award winning South African singer from Johannesburg, famous for her “click” style of singing and other works.

Maulana was the youngest of Louise Sherrell’s six children, and had the love, patience and protection of her sisters and brothers (Michael, Michelle, Debra, Jason and “Van”). The siblings were terribly protective of each other but especially of Maulana. In her youth, Maulana was very active in church, and sang in the choir and youth organizations. On Saturdays, Maulana attended Girl Scout meetings, and sold Girl Scout cookies. While attending the middle school, she continued her singing with the All-City Choir, and appeared at Carnegie Hall. Later, while attending Christopher Columbus High School, she participated in several extra-curriculum activities and was a cheerleader. After graduating high school, Maulana attended Pace University.

Maulana and her caring husband, Juan Morales (“Motley”) were blessed with a wonderful son, Keith Emmanuel Holmes who was not only the apple of her eye, but was also her best friend. She had a bond with her son that he will take with him forever. Maulana enjoyed living her best life and was known as the life of party. She was an extremely loyal and supportive friend. Maulana was, a beautiful soul and a lovely person, and was known as “Tia-Tia Lana” to her nieces and nephews (Justin, Brandon, Denean, Stephanie, Jessica, Diamond and Crystal). She was also the God Mother to Tiara Linder who she considered one of her own. Maulana traveled far and wide when it came to family members, and was loved everywhere she went. She was literally a vibe. 

Maulana is survived by her husband - Motley, her son - Keith, her mother - Ms. Sherrell, her brothers - Mike, Jason and Van, her sister - Debra, and her many cousins, nephews, nieces, god daughter and close friends. We celebrate her life, her love, her presence and the joys that we had whenever we were in her

presence. Maulana Makeba Holmes is free!