Araminta Shields Crawley

Araminta Shields Hansborough, better known as “Mint”, was born on October 21st, 1936, to Solomon Shields Hansborough and Araminta Dale Garner in Washington, DC. Araminta received her education through the District of Columbia School System; becoming an alumna of Spingarn High School.

Mint resided at 305 19th Street N.E., where she met Chappelle Anthony Sims—who resided at 318 19th Street N.E. They lived directly across from one another and became inseparable. Mint and Chappelle were joined in matrimony in the 1960’s. On October 20th, 1964, Mint was 27 years old and gave birth to her and Chappelle’s first and only son; Roger Anthony Sims; also known as “Tony”.

After divorcing Chappelle, Mint met Irving Leftwich Crawley, better known as “Doc”. Mint became Mrs. Crawley on August 27th, 1983. Doc was the love of Mint’s life. She always cherished the husband, father, and grandfather he was to his family. In 1995, Doc became incapacitated and Mint fulfilled her vows as a wife—becoming the sole caregiver to her husband. She wouldn’t allow anyone else to care for him; which further displayed the amount of love instilled within her heart. Doc loved this about Mint. She was always strong-minded and outspoken. They remained in matrimony for 27 years until Doc’s passing in 2010.

Araminta was employed with Safeway Inc. within the Eastern Division for over 35 years. She started her career as a cashier—until she became an office manager. Upon retirement, Mint was recognized by Mike Bessire, Eastern Division President, for her dedicated service and contributions to the success of Safeway Inc. Mint retired in 1999.

Mint enjoyed baking and cooking for the Church Bazaar; in addition to family gatherings and events. She passed down all of her family recipes and cook books to her granddaughter, Ashlee, who shares the same passion for baking and cooking as her grandmother. Mint was an avid sports fan! She always watched her two favorite teams; Washington Redskins and Golden State Warriors. Following the win or loss of any game, Mint always made sure she spoke with Tonora; who shares the same interest in sports.  

Mint had an unbreakable bond with her only son, Tony. She was extremely proud of his growth and the changes he made to become a better son, father, and husband. She always thanked Tony for caring for her over the past 9 years. Mint loved seeing and conversing with Tony every day. She was always the first person he called in the morning. There has never been, nor will there ever be, anything quite so special—the love between Mint and Tony.

Mint grew extremely close with her daughter-in-law, Amanda. When her son, Tony, was at work, she knew she could always call on “Manda”. She appreciated the way Amanda loved and cared for her. She recognized Amanda as her daughter and was grateful for her presence in the family.

Araminta was very delighted that her great-granddaughter, Ja’Nora, developed a relationship with Christ early on by attending Spencerville Adventist Academy. She enjoyed reviewing Ja’Nora’s classwork and hearing about what she was learning. She encouraged Ja’Nora to always go to church. Mint grew up attending church from a young age and maintained a relationship with God. Mint developed a bond with her great-grandson, Ah’Lija. She felt Ah’Lija reminded her of Tony when he was younger. She loved when Ah’Lija would just run up and kiss her unexpectedly.

Mint loved everyone but, she always spoke highly of her favorite niece Alta Riggs. Alta was very close with Mint and often served as a confidant to hear and listen to whatever Mint needed her to. Mint loved Alta as much as Alta loved her “Auntie”.

Ruthie Jenkins, Mint’s goddaughter, was always by her side. Mint loved to hear Ruthie’s voice! She always thought Ruthie had a great sense of humor. Ruthie treated Mint with the same love and compassion, as she treated her mother, Alexina—who was a dear friend of Mint’s.

Araminta was loved by all who knew her. She leaves to cherish her memory; one son, Roger A. Sims; one daughter-in-law, Amanda Lloyd-Sims; two granddaughters, Ashlee M. Sims and Tonora A. Sims; two great-grandchildren, Ja’Nora A. Sims and Ah’Lija A. Sims; one sister, Dale McCants; one brother, Robert Garner; one sister-in-law, Melanie Garner; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

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