Maisha Grant

Maisha Wambui Grant was born on September 12, 1995, in Rochester, New York, the only child of Waithera J. Kinuthia (aka Ms. K) and Delvin A. Grant. On June 25, 2025, Maisha was taken from us suddenly, leaving a deep void in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. She is survived by her devoted mother, her father, several aunts and uncles, and a host of cousins and lifelong family friends.

Raised in Las Cruces, New Mexico, Maisha thrived socially and academically. She made many friends and actively participated in her school community. She was in girl scouts, band, joining both the volleyball and track teams. She graduated from Oñate High School in 2013 (aka Organ Mountain High School), remembered fondly for her infectious energy and spirit.

Known affectionately by many names—Maish, Meesh, Meeshy, Moo Moo, Meep, Muku, Mushu—Maisha left Las Cruces in 2013 to attend DePaul University in Chicago, Illinois. Her talents and creativity knew no bounds. Over the years, she explored a variety of paths including retail, modeling, photography for real estate agencies, and cosmetology. She brought heart, humor, and style to everything she did.

Maisha believed deeply in generosity, family, love, laughter, good music, and friendship. She had a gift for making others feel seen, heard, and embraced—whether with a heartfelt hug or simply by being present. If you needed comfort, she was just a phone call away.

Maisha’s circle was broad and diverse. She touched the lives of so many and had a way of making you feel truly special—like family, no matter who you were.

Her joy was amplified when surrounded by others—at home among family, filling the room with laughter, or out with friends at music festivals or enjoying great food. Her warmth and affection touched everyone who knew her, and her memory will continue to bring light and love into our lives.

She was a cherished daughter, granddaughter, niece, cousin, and an unwavering friend. Because of her, we are all changed. We are better. We are more alive.

Fittingly, her name—Maisha—means "life" in Kiswahili. And that is what she gave us: life, in its most joyful and meaningful form. Today, we celebrate her radiant spirit and commit to honoring her legacy by living fully, loving deeply, and never forgetting the beautiful soul she was.

Maisha’s celebration of life will be held at Organ Mountain High School commons on Friday, September 12, 2025 from 6 pm to 8 pm.