Ayana Wilai Guillory

AYANA WILAI GUILLORY

SUNRISE: 09.14.2006 SUNSET: 04.11.2026

On September 14, 2006, an angel was born by the name of Ayana Wilai Guillory, to La Tonya Rellford and James Anthony Guillory Jr. in Tacoma, Washington. She was affectionally called “Yaya” by family and friends. As a young child, Ayana loved music, playing dress up and being treated like a princess. Even though Ayana seemed shy, when with family and friends, she loved to laugh and make those around her laugh. Needless to say, her beautiful smile was infectious.

Ayana graduated from CyFair High School in May 2025, earning her high school diploma. In August 2025, she continued her education at Galveston College, where she pursued her passion for cooking and worked toward her goal of becoming a Chef.

In her spare time, Yaya enjoyed taste-testing and exploring foods that reflected her Thai and Creole heritage. She cherished cooking alongside her mother and grandparents, often adding her own “Yaya” twist to her favorite dishes. Her deep love for food inspired her to further pursue her path in the culinary arts.

On April 11, 2026, God called his angel home. She is survived by her mom, La Tonya Rellford, stepfather, Mark Rellford, stepsister, Avani Rellford, brother, Aziran Rellford, maternal grandparents, Percy Sturgis Jr. and Wilai Kopplemann, paternal grandmother, Connie Hicks, paternal grandfather, James Anthony Guillory Sr., and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, and beloved friends.

Ayana is preceded in death by her Father, James Anthony Guillory Jr., her Great Grandparents Percy & Zena Sturgis and her Papi, David Wayne Hicks.

Yaya was a beautiful person inside and out. Her radiant smile and vibrant spirit filled every room she entered with warmth, light and joy. Her family and friends find comfort in knowing that their beautiful angel has gained her wings.