On Wednesday, October 9, 2024, Kiesha K. Colbert, of Downingtown, PA, passed away at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, in Philadelphia, PA. She was 57 years old.

Kiesha Colbert was born in Brooklyn New York. She was loved and raised by her grandmother Nannette Colbert. Her childhood was filled with joy as she was reared alongside her aunts and uncle who later in life would serve as her parental figures. She also spent summers in Pennsylvania as a fresh-air camper. The host family remained in Kiesha's life and are now serving as grandparents to her children.

Kiesha earned her high school diploma from the NYPSS. She then enrolled in Cheney University and went on to earn a B.S. degree in recreation therapy.

Kiesha was very ambitious some would say feisty, to say the least. She stood just 5 feet tall but had the heart of a giant, never backing down from a challenge. Her ambition and her love for food collided. She was able to open her first restaurant in Thorndale in 2004. After that venture, she became a private caterer and traveling comedy supper club. In 2010 after years of hard work, she was given the title of Chef by the White House chef. In 2016 Chef Colbert opened Sweet Peas restaurant in Parkesburg named after the nickname she gave her daughter, and also featuring her beloved grandmother's recipes, with a twist. Chef Colbert was also the featured chef at the Valley Forge Food and Wine Festival for many years. Keisha also ran a successful food truck until her health would no longer allow her to do so.

Kiesha's love for food led her to a chance meeting at Providence Church. She soon joined and her love for the Lord grew. She became a part of the women's Bible group and the kitchen committee. Her pastors often noted you could smell the food she cooked as soon as they entered the church.

Food was her second love, only behind the love she had for her children. Keisha was a lioness over her children. She made sure they were loved and protected in only the way she could. Madeson and Ethan were her worlds and she had no problem letting anyone know.  She took great pride in her daughter's paintings and her son's analytical way of thinking. Her last words were to ensure her children would be ok.

Kiesha had a heart of servitude, her willingness to serve led her down the career path in public service. Kiesha held positions at PSCS, and local Group Homes. For the last 20 years, she served as an IMCW for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Those who worked beside Kiesha had the opportunity to experience her feisty side, it was very rare for someone to win an argument with her.  She also had an endearing side. If there was anyone in need she was there, be it food, shelter, money, ANYTHING, she was there.

Kiesha is survived by her beloved children daughter Madeson-Paiyge, and son Ethan-McKinsey. Kiesha is also survived by Victoria Mayo, whom she loved and raised as her own. Her siblings Vivia Chee Chee, Rahilio, and Jane; uncle Theo, and aunt Jackie who guided Kiesha through life after the death of her grandmother.  She is predeceased by her grandmother, and siblings Abbey and Jerry.

A memorial service celebrating her life will be held at 4:00 PM on Monday, November 11, 2024, at Providence Church, 430 Hannum Ave., West Chester, PA 19380.

Condolences may be shared through the guestbook link on this memorial page. All are welcome to light a candle in Kiesha's memory.