Demita Usher, aka “Brown Betty,” was a champion of Black women’s causes.

Demita and I recorded a podcast on May 10 in anticipation of the website launch of her business centering on providing teaching and training on etiquette and manners.

Sadly, she passed away the morning of June 14.

It was with utter astonishment and dismay that I returned from church that Sunday morning to the incredible news.

My understanding is that the doctors discovered a blood clot on her lungs and she experienced heart failure.

Demita was only 42.

Ready To Launch

I’d enjoyed a lively phone conversation with Demita on May 10 – we recorded a podcast concerning her business and upcoming website launch.

A week or so prior to her death, she had officially launched her new website. Many of her friends in the interracial blogging space, in addition to others, gathered on her page to offer congratulations and virtual high-fives.

Demita and I conversed via inbox and made plans concerning the timing of posting the podcast episode, featuring her on The Swirl World Facebook page, in a blog post and in our Inspiration Daily email blast.

We made those plans, had a conversation for the podcast – and yet a month later Demita slipped from time into eternity.

I’m Sad – Yet Happy

My heart is heavy, and my prayers and condolences go out to Demita’s family. Her death was sudden and totally unexpected, and her family and close friends are left with the task of trying to make sense of the tragedy and contend with their grief.

My life has been touched by so many people in the interracial blogging, Facebook, Twitter and podcasting spaces. I am continually inspired, encouraged, challenged and motivated to live my best life and help others to do the same.

Demita was passionate about Black women living well, being respected and treated with dignity. In a previous podcast we discussed the power of Black women’s images, both negative and positive.

Demita was an author, entrepreneur and champion of Black women’s causes. She shared inspirational and thought-provoking posts on her Facebook page and wasn’t afraid to challenge the status quo.

I am blessed beyond measure that our paths have crossed and I know my life is the better because of it.

We love you, Demita, and we’re grateful that your legacy shines on.

This is Part 1 of my conversation; Part 2 will follow.

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Copyright © 2015  Michelle Matthews Calloway, ASwirlGirl™, The Swirl World™, The Swirl World Podcast™, Swirl Nation™, All rights reserved. Photo used with permission.