Akeycia S. Arellano

she went. Even at the young age of three, Akeycia displayed motherly instincts, a strong sense of order, and a clear understanding of what she wanted. She lovingly cared for her

younger brother, organized her school items with pride, and could often be found perfectly lining her lips with her mother’s lipstick.

Akeycia’s love for the arts began with dance—ballet, tap, jazz, and contemporary—which later grew into praise dance and drill team during her high school years. She was a busy

bee who embraced hard work, determination, and discipline, all while carrying a soft, intricate spirit that was captivating, caring, generous, and deeply loving. Athletics also played a major role in her life; basketball was her second love, and track was the very air

she breathed. Yet, her strength and talent on the court and field never overshadowed her undeniable beauty and grace; qualities that earned her crowns in pageants and the honor

of being named homecoming queen. After graduating with honors, Akeycia attended Lindenwood University in Belleville, Illinois,

on an athletic scholarship. There, she played shooting guard as a true freshman through her sophomore year and proudly represented her school as a cheerleader. Her college years reflected the same excellence, determination, and school spirit that had already become defining qualities of her life. In time, her path of excellence and purpose led her from the world of athletics and cheerleader to a life of honorable military service.

Answering the call to serve, she enlisted in the United States Army on February 11, 2012, and earned her commission as a Warrant Officer in 2021. Over the course of a distinguished 13-year military career, CW2 Arellano deployed her talents across the globe.

Her diverse and demanding assignments included tours at Fort Campbell, Camp Humphreys, Fort Benning, and Fort Drum, as well as a combat deployment. In her final assignment at Fort Hood, Texas, she served as the Human Resources Technician for the

120th Infantry Brigade. Throughout her career, she held numerous critical positions of responsibility, earning the profound respect of her peers, subordinates, and commanders alike through her unwavering professionalism, steadfast leadership, and fierce dedication to the mission.

CW2 Arellano’s exceptional service is reflected in her numerous military awards and decorations, which include the Meritorious Service Medal, the Army Commendation Medal

(with 3 Oak Leaf Clusters), the Army Achievement Medal (with 2 Oak Leaf Clusters), the Army Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Army Service Ribbon,

the Overseas Service Ribbon, the Certificate of Achievement, and the Meritorious Unit Commendation. Yet, as distinguished as her military record was, those who served alongside her will most deeply remember the person behind the uniform. CW2 Arellano

was a pillar of strength in her units, beloved for her profound kindness, infectious humor, generous spirit, and deep compassion for others.During her years of sacrifice for her country, she gave birth to her beautiful, gentle, and

brave daughter, Zharia Ilise. She was her mother’s heartbeat outside her body. Akeycia’s love for her child, and the sacrifices she made for her, were beyond measure. If you ever

wanted to see Akeycia at her very best, it was in love and care she poured into being a mother to her incredible child.

Just when it seemed Akeycia had already shared every one of her gifts, she added acting to her many talents. She began her acting journey as an extra in 2025, and her most recent

work is set to premiere in October 2026. In every season of her life, she carried herself with grace, strength, and the unmistakable spirit of a queen.Akeycia “NECI” transitioned from this life on June 08, 2026. Preceded in death:Father: Darren Keith Williams Sr.Brother: Semaj Williams Grandfather: Joe Lee Conkleton, Sr Grandmother:Ruth Marion Conkleton Maternal great-grandmother: Curley L. Campbell Paternal great-grandmother: Lillian F. Stephens

Aunt: Gwendolyn Wyse Uncle: Daron Conkleton Uncle: Keyunta Gipson She Leaves to Cherish Fond Memories and Everlasting Love

Daughter: Zharia Ilise Arellano of Fort Hood, Texas

Mother: Kimberly Henderson of Dallas Texas

Siblings: Terron Jamel Ellis of Dallas, TX; Darren Keith Williams Jr. of Dallas, TX Grandparents: Rev. Roy and Scarlette Renee Hooks, Ashdown, AR; James Williams (Rosie) Of DeKalb, TX

Aunts and Uncles: Annette Davis, Joe (Angela) Conkleton Jr., Anthony (Tammie) Conkleton, Lenneth Conkleton, Donna Conkleton, Phyllis Sanders, Darrell Crowder, Byron (Kita) Williams, Kyser Williams, Mervin Taylor, Marvin Taylor, Darren Betts, Christal Betts,

Jaime Williams, Glidder Williams Significant Other: “My” Gurie Sheffield Plus, a host of loved ones from both her biological and military families: nieces, nephews, great aunts, great uncles, cousins, friends, and co-workers whose hearts were part of her

life and experienced her BIG heart.

A committal service will be held at Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery, 2000 Mountain Creek Pkwy, Dallas, TX 75211, US, on June 24, 2026, from 10:15 am to 10:45 am.