With gentle hearts, we remember a life that brought light, laughter, and meaning to those who were blessed to know her. Born on November 16, 1994, and called home on February 3, 2026, Tayana Kamari Pierce, 31, faced life with quiet strength and a vibrant personality that never went unnoticed. Despite the challenges of illness, she remained warm, resilient, and full of spirit, leaving behind memories that will be cherished forever.

Tayana found deep joy in the things she loved and cared for wholeheartedly. She cherished her cat, Smokey, nurturing him with the same tenderness she gave to those closest to her. She expressed herself creatively through her hobby of making Turf Rugs and through her love of collecting crystals, each one chosen for its beauty and meaning. Tayana’s unique style and unwavering determination to be herself were unmistakable—she lived confidently, never bending to expectations or the opinions of others. She loved video games, which created lasting memories filled with laughter and connection with her brother and cousins. Simple comforts brought her happiness, especially a good meal of collard greens and cornbread. Above all, Tayana held a steadfast dream of working with animals as a veterinary technician, a calling rooted in her compassion and lifelong love for them.

Tayana was proud of her education and deeply committed to her career path. She graduated from Edward H. White High School in Jacksonville, Florida, in 2013. She went on to earn an Associate of Science degree in Health Information Technology from Florida Gateway College in Lake City, Florida, where she also completed certifications in medical coding and billing, business management, and phlebotomy. At the time of her passing, Tayana was pursuing her Bachelor of Applied Science degree in Veterinary Technology at St. Petersburg College, continuing her lifelong dream of working with animals.

Tayana dedicated several years of service to the Florida Department of Health in Lake City, where she was employed from 2018 to 2025 and served in multiple roles, including Senior Clerk. During her time there, she contributed to the Hepatitis and COVID response teams, as well as hurricane response efforts, work she approached with diligence and care. Most recently, Tayana was employed with the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, where she served as an anesthesiology technician assistant—bringing her compassion, focus, and love for animals into the work she valued so deeply.

Tayana was preceded in death by her beloved grandfather, Eric Roberson, her mother’s father. She is lovingly survived by her father, Antonio Pierce; her mother, Lakiesha Anderson (Michael Anderson); her paternal grandparents, Timothy Pierce and Rosebud Pierce; and her maternal grandparents, Mattie Shade (Sam Shade). She is also survived by her cherished brother, Kaleb Williams, with whom she shared a close bond. Tayana shared a special connection with her cousins Trevoness Scott and Brinaija Dixon, who were raised alongside her and held a place in her heart like siblings. A special acknowledgment is extended to her devoted aunt, Lorene Jackson, whose love and support were unwavering. She is also lovingly remembered by her step-siblings, Caleb, Rebekah, and Mikayla, as well as a host of uncles, aunts, cousins, and friends who will continue to honor her memory.

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