Kanika Tahirah Elder 51, quietly and peacefully transitioned from this life into eternal rest on Saturday, November 1, 2025, in the comfort of her home.  Born on September 29, 1974, to James and Diann (Arnold) Elder.  She was a graduate of the Clark County Vocational School (JVS) and Springfield South High School where she was excelled in Court Reporting.  In keeping with her family's strong work ethic, Kanika went right to work following graduation with her first job being a daycare teacher at Precious Gifts Daycare Center.   She later worked tirelessly as an employee of " Sisters Who Care"  where she lovingly cared for 3 special needs clients who affectionately referred to her as "K" or "Mom."  Kanika was most recently employed by Speedway/711as a customer service representative, but her proudest accomplished was working alongside her life-long friend Monica Story-Brickhouse as the owner of their small business "Two Good Girls."

Kanika will be remembered as many things, first as a sister to Jamila, whom she loved dearly.  Because Jamila's career took her away from home, people didn't always see the deep bond that existed between the two sisters.  Let there be no mistake, Kanika would kill a rock and bruise a stone about her baby sister!  In recent years she and her sister Jamila became the overprotective daughters to their parents, Jimmy and Diann, always checking their whereabouts, making sure that they were OK.  Kanika's response to their every request was "Yes Ma'am and Yes Sir."  A more faithful and devoted daughter would be hard to find.  Kanika loved her family and was known as "Aunt Kanika" to the younger generation and was a faithful Ride or Die who didn't play about her cousins.

Kanika will be remembered as a loving daughter and sister, and loyal family member and friend, but more than anything else for her unwavering love and devotion to her five children, Tre'Von, Zynayshe', Lahkim, Stephen and Kenyetta. Her life revolved around their happiness, making sure that not a day went by that were not reminded of her for them.   Kanika worked hard to let her children know that there was nothing she wouldn't do for them, and she had their back, no matter what! Second to her children were her four grandchildren, Tre'Von Jr., TaLiyah, Elise, and the newest addition, Arcelia.  Each of her grandchildren knew beyond a shadow of a doubt that their "Big Momma," loved them dearly.

It would be impossible to remember Kanika without remembering her as a loyal, ride or die friend that she was  to a countless number of young women, too many to name here, but "You Know Who You Are!"  Kanika was the kind of person, if she like you , you knew and if she didn't, she didn't mind letting you know.  If you were fortunate enough to be considered her friend, there was nothing she wouldn't  do for you.  She was there for every celebration, every hardship and to cheer you on in every endeavor.

Kanika leaves to cherish her memory her parents, James and Diann Elder, of Springfield, Ohio; her loving sister, Jamila Elder, of Clayton, North Carolina; her five children, Tre'Von, Zynayshe', Lahkim, Stephen Garrison and Kenyetta all of Springfield, Ohio and devoted sister/ cousin, Kisha (Torie) Williams of Catharpin, Virigina; a loving partner of 13 years, John Moore; aunts, Mattie Elder and Juanita Elder, Patricia Daniels all of Springfield, Ohio and Linda (Randal) Young of Clayton, Ohio and uncle, Willie ( Victoria) Arnold of Springfield, Ohio.  She was preceded in death by her paternal grandparents, Marvin and Doris Elder, and maternal grandparents,  Sam and Birdie Arnold.

Visitation is Monday, November 10, 2025 from 5-7 p.m. in Greater Grace Temple.  Funeral service is Tuesday, November 11, 2025 at 11 a.m. with a visitation one hour prior to the service at Greater Grace Temple.  Burial will follow in Rose Hill Burial Park.