Toni Braxton is known to many as an artist; however, to Braxton herself, being a mom surpasses anything she could have ever accomplished through her music. She has two children, Denim and Diezel, fathered by her ex-husband, Keri Lewis. The couple got married in 1998. In addition to Denim (born in 2001), the couple also had another son, Diezel (born in 2003).
As much as Toni would like to say that motherhood, she has spoken publicly about the difficulty of leaving her two boys to go on tour and/or travel throughout the world for her music. However, despite this challenge, she continued to maintain a strong connection with them by attending their school events and supporting them at games.
Toni’s sons and the paths they’re carving out for themselves.
Denim Cole Braxton-Lewis is her oldest, born December 2, 2001. Toni once admitted she wanted to call him “Denham,” but thanks to a nurse’s mix-up, they went with “Denim” instead, just like the jeans. Toni thinks names matter; they help kids figure out who they are, and Denim really grew into his. When Toni and Keri split up in 2009 (and divorced officially in 2013), Denim said both parents handled it with a lot of grace. He appreciated that their friendship made things smoother for him and his brother.
Denim has always been very enthusiastic about basketball. After graduating from high school in 2020, Denim attended Grand Canyon University, where he studied sports management. In recent years, Denim has modeled for various designers and appeared on many runways; he has also participated in multiple marketing campaigns and appeared in an ad for Diesel clothing alongside his mother and brother.
Diezel Ky Braxton-Lewis
Diezel Ky Braxton-Lewis is Toni’s youngest child, born on March 31, 2003. When Diezel was young, Toni noticed he was not meeting developmental milestones as quickly as other children. As time passed, doctors eventually diagnosed him with autism. The time it took Toni to come to terms with the fact that her son had autism was emotionally charged, and Toni stated that she initially went through denial, similar to many other parents, as they struggle to accept that children with autism do not learn in the same manner as typical children. Once Toni accepted this reality, she chose to embrace and celebrate what made Diezel unique.
Toni jumped into autism advocacy pretty early. She and Diezel filmed a PSA when he was seven, and she’s always said how grateful she is for the support that helped her help him thrive.
Diezel got into acting at nine, landing a part in the Lifetime movie Twist of Faith. As a teen, he switched gears and started modeling. He graduated from high school in 2021 and celebrated with his family. Toni was beaming with pride when she announced he’d be going to Howard University, cheering him on as he started this new chapter.
Autism Support & Treatment in Las Vegas
At Nevada Autism Center, real family stories say more than any brochure ever could. Take Diezel’s journey, early detection, jumping in with the proper support, and just having people accept him for who he is made a world of difference for his whole family.
We offer ABA Therapy and guidance for kids and teens, plus support for their families. Our goal? Give every child the confidence to grow and thrive. Toni stood by her son, and if you need someone in your corner, we’re here for you, too.
