Our beloved sister, Altavia Polk, has broken yet another link our sibling chain. On Thursday, February 15, 2024, she transitioned to her heavenly home from her Charlotte, North Carolina home, at the age of 62. The youngest child of the late James Knox Polk, Sr. and Dorothy Price Polk, Altavia was born February 2, 1962 and was a lifelong resident of the Grier Heights community.

Altavia had many nicknames but was most affectionately known as "Tavia" by family and close friends. She was a graduate of East Mecklenburg and later attended Central Piedmont Community College.

At the age of 13, Tavia studied with and was baptized as a Jehovah's Witness. In her later years, she was affiliated with Grier Heights Presbyterian Church.

Although Tavia was born with cerebral palsy, she never allowed that to hinder her or deter her from doing anything that she wanted to do! She was always very independent and would never allow her friends to help her. Because of her pride and demand for her independence, Tavia's friends always respected her and treated her like "one of the gang"!

Tavia was never employed on a full-time basis but was always willing and happy to do whatever she could to help others. She took pleasure in volunteering her time as a Reading buddy at Billingsville Elementary School in Grier Heights. Tavia also volunteered her time with United Family Services Victim Assistance Program, helping counselors and staff manage mounds of paperwork. According to staff, Tavia left a huge void when left as she was highly requested and greatly appreciated.

She enjoyed children and was a willing babysitter for many of the nieces, nephews, and grandchildren who spent time with her. They all have many fond memories and funny stories to tell! They brought her great joy, and the feelings were mutual.

Tavia loved her family and enjoyed spending time with adults as much as the children. Earlier in life when she was far more mobile, Tavia enjoyed travelling with family. She looked forward to annual family reunion trips that took her to many different parts of the country from New York to New Orleans and many places in between! She had so much fun in every city that she claimed it her favorite and said she wanted to say there! Tavia's travels also took her out of the country to places like the Dominican Republic and Bermuda. Tavia most recently enjoyed her weekly gatherings with her brothers and sisters to share a meal or to simply spend time together.

In addition to her parents, Tavia's brother, James K. Polk, Jr. , preceded her passing.

Tavia is survived by her loving family including sisters, Regina C. Gill and Camilla P. Clark, brother, J. Vincent Polk (Renita) and sister, Tammy Polk-Hinton (Robert) all of Charlotte, and sister-in-law, Lynn L. Polk of Gastonia. In addition to a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and many special life-long friends, Tavia had a special affection for Paris Huntley, with whom she spent countless hours.