Tanji Alexander

Our deeply loved daughter, sister, and friend, Tanji age 46, passed away unexpectedly on the evening of Friday, May 14, 2021.

Tanji was intelligent, beautiful, vibrant and endlessly curious; she loved, and she was loved. A soft, compassionate, and truly kindhearted individual. We feel so deeply enriched and we are all very lucky to have had her in our lives for what proved to be far too short of a time.

Her legacy reminds us to be understanding, accepting of others and kind to all, no matter their beliefs or orientation. She retained her curiosity and wonder in the world, from the people she met to the places she’s traveled. Even from a very young age, she showed wisdom far beyond her years. You could talk to her with just about anything and do so safely, if it was advice you needed, a shoulder to lean on or just a non-judgmental ear, she would be there to listen and give you advice.

She was gentle, young children and the elderly brought out a light and tenderness that was especially warming to witness.

Even as a child, Tanji couldn't stand to see anyone picked on, or diminished in any way. When she did, she would stand up and rise, becoming a champion of protecting others. Tanji could never understand intolerance or people who carelessly hurt others.

She chose to have vibrant people in her life. Even as she gave love and understanding, she was also deeply wounded by different people and experiences in her life. Throughout the years, those wounds were far deeper and long lasting than any of us could have imagined. She kept the depth of those wounds largely hidden, partly because she didn't want to burden anyone else with her pain.

We will miss her warm hugs, her impish grins, and sometimes wholly inappropriate, but very funny jokes. She taught us all so very much, without us ever realizing it. The world will truly be darker without her here.

Tanji was born on the bright sunny morning of May 9, 1975, to Raymond Alexander - Brown, (Deceased), and Donna (Fifer) Kani. She is survived by sisters Amelia Kani, and Amber Pace. brother Ryan Kani, and Stepfather, Hamid Kani. She is also survived by her grandmother, Bonnie Fifer Cross, (Lowell Ark.), as well as many loved aunts, uncles, and cousins in Utah, Idaho, Texas, Arizona, Colorado, and Tennessee. Waiting for her to join them was her father Ray, her aunt Dana Fifer, her grandparents Laura and Clifton Brown, Shirley Fifer, and Donald Fifer. She missed them all so much.

We are continually grateful for all the love and support of so many of Tanji's friends. While Tanji loved flowers and always kept them in her house, she also loved people. Those wishing to contribute may make a financial donation or volunteer their time in Tanji's name to: The Utah Domestic Violence Coalition, The Utah Pride Center, or the Road Home.

In Tanji’s name, we will be holding a celebration of life on Saturday May 29, from 9:30am - 1:00pm at London Studios (2320 E Murray Holladay Rd, Holladay, UT 84117). Please wear bright colors or white, as per Tanji's request. Following the memorial will be a public viewing from 2:00pm - 4:00pm at Kramer Family Funeral Home & Cremation (2500 South Decker Lake Blvd #1, West Valley City, UT 84119).