Jewel Sheri Rachal
Obituary

On January 22, 2026, Jewel made her final passage and journey home.  While the earth cries and the heavens smile; We invite you to remember her amazing smile ,joyful spirit, her welcoming eyes, and her gentle and innocent beauty. Jewjew, Lulu, Pumpkin, Baby Jewel, Little Jewel, and Lady Jewel are just some of the names she was called by family and friends. Each name seemed to endear a particular love string that connected with her heart and the heart of those closest to her. These names showed up during different  seasons  but endured throughout her years.

Her genuine and authentic connection with family, friends, and acquaintances was often marveled by those who knew her challenges and difficulties. She could share a bright smile in the midst of it all and tell her mom “ you got good stuff”, while at the same time making a proclamation to her grandmother “you got the best in the world”! While indeed, Jewel was a gentle lady. She too was a fierce protector of those closest to her.

Jewel’s life’s journey embodied what most could not imagine, but through it all the essence of Jewel conveyed light, love, and laughter. Most would agree, She displayed  a sense of humor that sometimes caught people off guard. It was as if she was waiting for the right moment to drop an unsuspecting comedic line. Some of her favorite lines captured her interest in cultural idioms with rhythmic sayings that were timeless.   She had so many favorite sayings like “Iceberg slim” ,”I am tired wit it”, “oh boy oh man” ,”I know how to whistle” , “Are we best friend”, “Mommies hear”, and her favorite declaration to her family “I love you my whole life… forever”. Truly, these sayings lend themselves to a kind of  dictionary of “Jewel’s  expressions and affirmations” for us all to treasure.

Her expressions were gems to those that could receive and acknowledge her unique personality and perspectives. Her uniqueness was further expressed in her love for shoes, how she adorned herself in bright colors, necklaces, bracelets, and her fondness for Blue Smurfs. In her early years, she enjoyed going with her mom and grandmother to Payless Shoes. Over time, as she exercised her independence; when she had the opportunity, she frequented McDonalds with her sister, her brother, and her cousins. Other outings she really enjoyed were going to “The Center” , and fellowshipping at church with her parents.  Jewel was a miracle and embodied daily grace, compassion, and mercy. She shared these with others in her own child like manner and through her whispers of love.

Now, just like a wise woman, Jewel taught lessons. Lessons  learned from her gentle humility taught us all to look to God for everything. She taught through innocence and gave us all an example of inner strength, determination, and authenticity. She was pure in heart, honest and true. And, she without pretension or an air of arrogance taught both young and old lessons of patience, humility, and the simple miraculous gift of being present.

Jewel possessed an upbeat personality, an enduring spirit, and a divine determination to rise even when life unfolded so many challenges. She gave genuine love, and delighted herself both in seeing others and being able to be seen by others. At the  centerpoint of each of these lessons was her gift of acceptance. She accepted herself, accepted others for who they were, and responded so graciously to those who honored and respected her personhood. Those who knew her well, would agree, her undying  love never changed,... it remained the same.  Jewel shared so much with each of us to reflect and to learn from. And, like her favorite songstress Anita Baker said, Jewel might say,  “ I’ve  given you the best that I got”.

In remembrance of Jewel and to affirm her living memory, you are invited to share online your comments, messages, prayers, pictures, and blessings within her online memorial page. In support of the family, in the coming month, there will be a small private invitation-only dinner to honor the sunrise and sunset of Jewel's life.

We would like to thank you for your care, support, and prayers.  During these next few weeks, if your heart leads you to reach out to the family; please feel free to send emails to: [email protected].  Additionally, cards, plants, and contributions are welcomed and can be mailed to:

Attn: Ramona Alfred

1144 West 79th Street

Los Angeles, California 90044