Tyra Crystal Williams

Tyra Crystal Williams, age 41, of Hazlehurst, passed away Sunday, October 11, 2026.

Tyra was born on July 22, 1985, in Reidsville, North Carolina. As a Certified Nursing Assistant, she brought boundless compassion, dignity, and comfort to those in their most vulnerable moments. Her caring nature also extended into the classroom, where she served as a beloved substitute teacher. She had a rare gift for connecting with students of all ages, bringing patience, guidance and a warm smile to every school she visited. Beyond her work, Tyra was a vibrant soul who found joy in the beauty of life. She had a lifelong passion for the mountains, finding peace, clarity and inspiration whenever she was surrounded by the peaks and crisp air. Those who knew her will always remember her immaculate sense of style. She treated doing her hair and makeup as a beautiful art form – a reflection of her bright personality and a way to make every day feel like a special occasion. Above all, Tyra loved to sing. Whether she was filling the house with music, singing along on a mountain drive, or sharing her voice with others, her songs brought harmony and happiness to everyone around her. Tyra attended the First Baptist Church of Hazlehurst and was preceded in death by her father, Johnny Sands and grandparents, Buck Spry, Pauline Spry, and Oula Pulliam.

Survivors include her husband, Ted Lamar Williams; daughter, Almeria (Colby) Covington; mother, Gale Spry Sands; sister, Tonya Sands; grandchildren, Hudson Covington and Addison Marie Covington.

Visitation will be held on Monday, October 19, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. with the funeral services following at 11:00 a.m. in the Chapel of Swain Funeral Home in Hazlehurst with Rev. Joey Andrews and Rev. Brad Waters officiating. Interment will be in Hazlehurst Memorial Cemetery.

Active pallbearers will be Gabe Corey, Anthony Carter, Charles Carter, Javier Picazo, KC Lander and Saul Leal.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Swain Funeral Home Hazlehurst Chapel.