Mrs. Herminia Janet Samuels-Mckinzie

Herminia Janet Samuels-McKinzie, age 50, of Fairview Heights, Illinois, entered eternal rest on November 17, 2025, in the comfort of her home. Born on July 17, 1975, in Brooklyn, New York, she was the cherished daughter of Gloria Jean Spigner and Erwin Samuels.

Herminia was raised between the vibrant rhythms of New York and the rich heritage of her Caribbean roots. She attended Central Islip High School and later completed her GED. On January 18, 2008, she married Anthony W. McKinzie, and together they built a life marked by resilience, laughter, and deep love.

Herminia served in a variety of professional roles, including positions with TD Waterhouse, Wells Fargo, and the beloved team at Jazzy 159, where her energy, warmth, and unmistakable "Mena-like" charm left a lasting impression on patrons and coworkers alike.

Her life was full of gifts. She was a talented cook whose Caribbean dishes brought comfort and joy to every table. She loved painting, writing, doing hair, dancing, singing, and crafting music from her heart. She was happiest near the water, especially on beach trips filled with sunshine and laughter. One of her most treasured moments was celebrating her recent 50th birthday bash in New York, surrounded by family and music.

Herminia's personality was a beautiful tapestry: sunshine in human form, charismatic, funny, fiery, loving, protective, adventurous, and full of life. Her New York and Caribbean accent made every story more vibrant. She was the life of the party, the spark in the room, and a place of comfort for everyone who knew her. She was known for her generosity, her servant-hearted spirit, and the way she cared for people with her whole soul.

Herminia was preceded in death by her beloved older brother, Erwin Samuels Jr.; her stepfather, Heyward Spigner; her maternal grandparents, Idella Bethea and Isaiah Bethea; and her paternal grandfather, Joseph Samuels.

She leaves a powerful legacy of love through her children: Alaysia Shanette Mitchell (33), Aliyl Gloria McKinzie (23), Aynieh Dawn McKinzie (22), and Anthony Wayne McKinzie Jr. (16); and her grandchildren, Elijah Joseph Mitchell-Jaffke (10) and Li'Auri Zaheir Mitchell-White (5). She is also lovingly survived by her parents, Gloria Jean Spigner and Erwin Samuels; her paternal grandmother, Herminia Samuels; her siblings Yulin Samuels, Zurika Samuels, and Anthony Spigner; along with cherished nieces and nephews and a wide circle of beloved aunts, uncles, and cousins who will continue to honor her memory.

Her life was a gift. Her love was a legacy. Her memory will remain a light.