Obituary of Jaye D. Sinkfield

Jaye Sinkfield, lovingly known as Diva J, was born September 16, 1993, in St. Paul, Minnesota, the first of twins, to Tammy Sinkfield-Morey and Greggory O’Bannon.

Survived by mother Patrice “Tammy” Sinkfield-Morey, brother Jordan Sinkfield, and grandmothers Jackie Sinkfield Fleming and Mary Beth Sinkfield. Preceded in death by father, Greggory L. O’Bannon, grandfather, Ernie Sinkfield, grandmother Gertrude Donaby, and other beloved legacy family members.

Jaye was a loving twin sibling to Jordan. A magnificent star for their mother, Tammy. A loving influence for all who knew them. Jaye’s heart stopped beating on January 14, but their light will continue to glow forever.

Jaye’s brilliance helped lift the voices of black femme queer artists and people. Part of the charm and wonder of Jaye was the big full life they lived, unafraid and not constrained by convention. They were an incredible advocate and supporter of their communities.

Jaye was a gifted artist who was great at pulling people together. Their love of music led to a life punctuated by exuberant performances and compelling, brilliant heartfelt lyrics, most based on personal experiences. In 2022 Jaye was honored with a McKnight Musician Fellowship Grant, an honor they took as a call to continue changing the world through their music.

Lifelong friends and family members will forever remember Jaye as fiercely intelligent, thoughtful, funny, kind, generous, and absolutely gorgeous. Jaye’s smile was everything.

Funeral services will be held on the morning and afternoon of Monday, January 23, at St. Peter Claver Church, 375 Oxford Street North, St. Paul. The viewing will be from 9:00 to 11:00 am, with a service to follow at the church.