Debra Staggers

In Loving Memory of Debra Brenda Staggers

Debra Brenda Staggers departed this life on March 23, 2026, at St. Raphael Hospital in New Haven. She was born o n March 18, 1954, in Charleston, South Carolina, to Paul Staggers and Anna Martin-Staggers. Brenda was the youngest of eight siblings who have since passed away.

During her early childhood, she moved to Liberty, New York, with her mother, and later relocated t o New London, Connecticut, where she attended London High School. I n the early 1970s, she settled i n New Haven County, residing for many years i n West Haven within the Meadowbrook Community (Da Brook), where she raised her three children and formed many lasting friendships.

Brenda dedicated 20 years to her role as a Certified Home Healthcare worker until health issues led her to retire. She was a former member o f Church Upon This Rock, under the leadership of Apostle Valerie Washington i n New Haven, Connecticut.

Brenda was a woman of profound character and a vibrant personality. She embraced life on her own termsand fought a tremendous and courageous battle until the very end. To know Brenda was to understand a woman who danced to her own rhythm; music was not just a n interest, but the very language of her soul.

Whether she was listening to smooth oldies like "For the Good Times" or the royal brilliance of Prince's "Diamonds and Pearls," she found beauty in every note. Just as the lyrics she adored suggested, she believed that love was calling, and the people i n her life were the true "diamonds" she cherished deeply. Whether in tune o r out, her joyful singing showcased her spirit, and the dimples on her cheeks would have made angels envious, as she poured her heart into every word.

Brenda moved through life with fierce independence, yet her greatest joy stemmed from the spiritual bonds she forged with her children, friends, and community. Although her loss feels profoundly premature, the strength

she exhibited during her final fight was nothing short of legendary. She confronted every challenge with the heart of a warrior, unwavering in spirit and dignity. Her fiery resolve showed us all what true resilience looks like.

She is survived by her Brothers: Leon Staggers and Richard Staggers, Her daughters: Chanel Sheffield (North Charleston, South Carolina) and Jacqueline Staggers (Saint Mary's, Georgia), along with five beautiful grandchildren. She has a host of nieces, nephews, and a wide circle of friends who will forever miss her radiant light.

Brenda was predeceased b y her children: daughter LaShonda Staggers and son Albear (Jamel) Sheffield. Also predeceased by paternal sibling: Willie Staggers; and maternal siblings: Thomas Martin, Della Martin, Margaret Brown, Nathaniel Brown, Paul Staggers 11, Louis Staggers 1, Christine Brantley, and Sam Capers Jr.

In her honor, we ask that whenever you hear a song that stirs your heart, you think of her. Remember that, Like a diamond, she was refined by pressure and emerged shining.

A celebration of Debra’s life will be held on Friday, April 3, 2026 at 12pm at Colonial Funerals, 86 Circular Avenue, Hamden, CT. Visitation from 11am-12pm. Condolences may be expressed at colonialfunerals.com.