Milwaukee has lost a quiet giant.

Akuwa Dantzler, longtime legislative assistant to Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs and a beloved presence throughout the 6th District and beyond, passed away on February 17, 2026. For years, Akuwa worked diligently behind the scenes, shaping initiatives, strengthening community institutions, and supporting countless residents with grace, humility, and unwavering dedication.

Though an only child by birth, Akuwa built a chosen family as expansive as her heart. She was known for her radiant smile, her gentle spirit, and her remarkable ability to make others feel seen and valued. Friends and colleagues describe her as the kind of person who remembered birthdays, checked in during difficult times, and celebrated life’s small victories without ever seeking recognition for herself.

In City Hall and throughout the district, Akuwa’s fingerprints are everywhere.

Many of the initiatives that residents have come to cherish — including Girls’ Day @ City Hall, Bronzeville Week, and the MKE Business Now Entrepreneurship Summit — were strengthened and sustained by her exceptional organizing, planning, and execution. She approached public service not as a job, but as a calling. Whether coordinating community events, responding to constituent concerns, or supporting collaborative efforts to improve neighborhood quality of life, Akuwa carried out her work with excellence and care.

Despite facing her own health challenges, she remained steadfast in her commitment to serving others. Her resilience was matched only by her humility and love for Milwaukee. Colleagues recall that she rarely centered herself in the spotlight, preferring instead to uplift the work and achievements of the community.

To many, she was more than just a legislative assistant.  She was a trusted leader, a steady hand, and a source of support. 

Beyond City Hall, Akuwa’s impact extended into Milwaukee’s broader civic and cultural life. She believed deeply in community, not as an abstract idea, but as a lived practice. She showed up. She listened. She organized. She encouraged. And she loved fiercely.

Her biological family has planned an intimate funeral service. At this time, the community is asked to keep them lifted in your thoughts and prayers.

Funeral Services for Akuwa Dantzler

Wednesday, March 4, 2026

Reid’s New Golden Gate Funeral Home

Viewing: 10:00 AM

Service: 11:00 AM

In addition, Akuwa’s chosen family will host a larger community celebration that reflects her heart, her dedication, and her unwavering commitment to public service.

Celebration of Life for Akuwa Dantzler

Saturday, March 7, 2026

Wisconsin Black Historical Society and Museum

2620 W. Center St.

Doors Open: 1:00 PM

As Milwaukee mourns, we also honor a life defined by service, excellence, and compassion. Akuwa Dantzler’s impact on this city will not be forgotten. Her work lives on in the programs she helped build, the people she mentored, and the community she strengthened every day.

Thank you, Akuwa, for a life of service.