Ms. Tawana L. Nottingham Alston

Tawana Nottingham Alston (63), of Clinton, MD., passed away Sunday morning at home surrounded by family on September 24, 2023. Loving god mother of James M. Gilkesson, Parker Gilkesson Davis and Synclaire Gilkesson. Also beloved friend of Cynthia and James D. Gilkesson. Tawana was born in Virginia Beach, VA on June 7, 1960, to the late James and Shirley Nottingham. She received Christ at a young age when attending Bank Street Memorial Baptist Street Church in Norfolk, VA. Tawana married the love of her life, Timothy Rudolph Alston, in August of 1994. He preceded her in death on September 30, 2012. Tawana was educated in the Norfolk Public School system, and graduated from Norview High School in 1978. She went on to attend Hampton Institute from 1978-1981. Tawana was a phenomenal woman. She was not only stylish and beautiful, but was an amazing event planner, home décor designer, business woman and community leader. She was the consummate host at the home she and Tim shared always entertaining family and friends with an effortless flair. Tawana was a child of God. She was a faithful member of her bible study group before Covid. She enjoyed being a greeter, welcoming members to class with a smile and a hug. She loved to dance, laugh and tell jokes. Tawana continued the business that her husband established, TRA Medical Supply Company, Inc. as the President and CEO of TRA Medical Supply, Inc. in 2012. Tawana’s business knowledge and experience spanned over 30 plus years. Prior to joining TRA, she served as assistant Comptroller, Systems and Control Manager and Internal Auditor for Omni Hotels, and served as a member of the Conversion Team for new acquisitions, from 1983 through 1994. Additionally, she utilized her vast knowledge and skills in the hotel industry to start C & N Consultants, Inc., a local company specializing in event planning for corporations, non-profit organizations, and government agencies from 1995-2010. Tawana served on the board of Bethune-DuBois Institute, The Philadelphia Martin Luther King Association, and worked as a community partner for Prince George’s County Government. She enjoyed volunteering and serving throughout the metropolitan area with a compassionate focus on youth and homelessness. She leaves to cherish her memories her sister Denita Jackson, two brothers Derrick Nottingham (Dr. Robin) and Steve A. Nottingham (a special friend Barbara); one aunt Bertha Copeland; one uncle Wardell Nottingham (Shirley); brother-in-law Lacy Alston (Dr. Sharon Alston); three nephews Dominic Jackson, Brandon Nottingham, and Matthew Alston; two nieces Sariah Nottingham and Brittany Winfield, as well as, a host of nieces/nephews, cousins, family, and friends. She was also predeceased by her nephew Derrick Nottingham, Jr., niece Skye Nottingham and grandparents Elmo and Susie Alston. A memorial and celebration of life service will be held at Southern Regional Technology & Recreation Complex, 7007 Bock Road, Fort Washington, MD 20744 on October 21, 2023 at 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM.

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Ms. Tawana L. Nottingham Alston

June 7, 1960 - September 24, 2023