Toni Braxton gives her first interview with Tamron Hall following the passing of her sister Traci Braxton. After battling esophageal cancer, Traci passed away on March 12 at the age of 50-years-old. Toni shared a tribute on Instagram.
“She was a bright light, a wonderful daughter, an amazing sister, a loving mother, wife, grandmother, and a respected performer,” she said. “We will miss her dearly.”
The Interview
Toni expressed that her sister loves snowflakes, and there was heavy snowfall during the morning of her transition. The R&B singer writes, “Our angel is now a snowflake.” Often when a loved one passes on, people claim to see signs of them afterward. Toni shares with Hall that Traci’s favorite bird was the hummingbird. Recently, she reports seeing a hummingbird surrounding her.
“I saw a hummingbird the other day,” Toni says. “It kind of flew around me and suspended itself, and I was like, Traci? And it started bumping and going up and down. So that made me feel so much better. I feel like she was trying to say hello to me.”
Doctors did not believe Traci would surpass the winter holiday season. However, Traci was optimistic, and she received far more time than anticipated. Toni shares that the family was in attendance as Traci took her last breath. She reflects on spending as much time with her sister during her last days.
Moreover, Toni Braxton reminisces on Traci’s advice while filming her recent Lifetime special “Fallen Angels Murder Club.” She reflects on a memory of questioning her character’s sex appeal, and Traci responds joyously, confirming the role should be sexy.
Despite filming in Canada, the two kept in contact frequently. Therefore, both Toni and the Lifetime network dedicate the film to Traci’s legacy.
“It’s a lot of fun,” Toni tells Hall. “When I look at this project, I think of her with a smile on my face. We’re going to dedicate this film (Lifetime and I) to my sister Traci so she will always be with us no matter what.”
The Braxton Family
The Braxton family dynamic is strong and resilient. Speaking on behalf of the family, Toni expresses how grateful they are for having the time they did with their loved ones. Traci leaves behind her husband, Kevin Surratt, and son Kevin Surratt Jr.
Traci Braxton may no longer be here in the flesh. However, the human spirit is energy, and energy never dies. May she rest in peace.
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Written by Samaria Fuqua