Tyra Marie Whitehead Obituary in Richmond at Scotts Funeral Home

Obituary For Tyra Marie Whitehead

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Tyra Whitehead, who left us on October 7, 2024, at the age of 26. Born on February 25, 1998, Tyra was the beloved daughter of Toni Greer and Byron Whitehead Sr. She was a loving and cherished sister to her maternal siblings, Kevin Cousins, Jennifer Fobbs, Shelly Greer, and Byron Whitehead Jr., as well as her paternal siblings, Deron, Dalanda Alexander, Dionnedra Alexander, and Sophia Alexander, who preceded her in death on September 28, 2010.

Tyra is also survived by a large, loving family of nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, and god-siblings. She was blessed with two devoted godmothers and leaves behind her girlfriend, who was soon to be her fiancée.

Tyra's passion for basketball began at a young age, leading to a distinguished career that took her around the world. She was an international WNBA player who signed and trained with the Washington Mystics of D.C. Throughout her journey, she played AAU for Boo Williams Summer League, James River, Falling Creek Middle, Cosby High School, Wake Forest University, and San Jose State University. Her international career saw her on the courts with Wetterbygden Sparks in Sweden, Kilsyth LC Cobras in Australia, Essex Rebels in the UK, and CSM Targoviste in Romania. In addition to her playing career, Tyra shared her love of the sport by coaching at West Orange High School and during her international stops, mentoring and inspiring young athletes.

Off the court, Tyra was a vibrant, free spirit who treasured her family deeply. While many admired her athletic skills, her family and friends knew her as a multi-talented individual who brought joy and creativity to every aspect of her life. Tyra was a photographer, philosopher, clothing designer, comedian, world traveler, musician, poet and documentarian. She found joy in visiting museums, learning about history, and capturing the beauty of the world through her lens.

Tyra's legacy is one of love, exploration, and passion. Her presence will be deeply missed, but her spirit lives on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. She leaves behind not just memories, but a sense of adventure and an appreciation for life that will continue to inspire.

Family and friends are invited to come together, share memories, and honor her beautiful life. A celebration of Tyra's life will be held on October 26, 2024, 11 a.m. at Scott's Chapel 116 E Brookland Park Blvd. Richmond, VA. 23222. Interment private.

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Natasha Mohammed - Massa sent Rays of Light Spray for Tyra Marie Whitehead - October 23, 2024

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5 Trees were planted in memory of Tyra Marie Whitehead - October 23, 2024

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My deepest sympathy and condolences to the family of Tyra Whitehead.

I'm so terribly sorry for the loss of Tyra from this world, she brought so much excitement to the court at Essex, I loved watching her play! thank-you so much Tyra for bringing all that joy. I'm sending prayers & deepest condolences to all her friends & family who knew her, much love. Sam (England)

i love you wifey, more than anything. In this life, in the next 💕

Tyra my sister. I'm sorry this happened to you and I pray that you will find that peace you deserve. Tyra and I played basketball with each other. We battled in college SJSU vs UNLV to playing overseas in Sweden. I would always catch the bus down to Tyra's city to hang out with her and she would come down to mine as well. We alwaya looked out for one another while overseas. Tyra was a great sister, she was always there with a word of knowledge and aspirations. Her mind was beyond this world. To her family, thank you Mom & Dad for blessing us with your baby, she will be forever missed. I love you sis! Get your rest!

My deepest condolences to Tyra's Family, Friends, Teammates, and her Partner🤍 Tyra was a wonderful friend and supporter to many. I met Tyra at Falling Creek where she supported me guided me cheered for me as I learned the sport that she loved most. She took me under her wing and spent countless time helping me during our practices to improve. I have found myself hearing her lately yelling "Yeah smiles!", the nickname she gave me and the team caught on. She had touched my life so long ago and I spoke of her throughout these years to many I know. She was a wonderful soul and will not be forgotten. To all her loved ones I wish to give you a very tight hug and to thank you for raising her with such a pure heart, thank you for sharing her with the world because everywhere she went she radiated happiness and love to those around. -Amanda Rivera

I'm beyond thankful for all of the confidence and guidance you showed Tyra. All I wanted when I was younger was to be you. All of the memories will forever be engraved in my heart and all the lessons you've taught as well. rest easy until we can hoop again<3-pierce vandell

Love you and miss you Ty 💚. Thanks for being a true friend, I'll forever miss all the laughs and conversations that we shared in the Dojo. GVO 4 Life
- Solo
- Solo

I'll miss you so much T! So grateful God allowed me to have a friend in you through a sport we both love. I'll forever cherish the memories made & years spent together. Your vibe and spirit is unmatched and your legacy will always carry on. I pray your soul is resting peacefully sis, I love you always💗

Forever GVO in your memory... we will miss your energy, charisma, passion, and love for everyone you ever came into contact with.
Your soul will forever live on T Smoove. Your SJSU family loves you forever... 10 toes always, keep watching over us 🤍

Our deepest sympathy and condolences to the family. Tyra was very special to our family. She was our basketball baby from Falling creek to Cosby to James River AAU. We will be miss her big smile and loving heart. Rest well sweet angel. Johnnie, Nichelle, Jasmine and Jade Wilson

Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. We are deeply sorry for your loss. Our heartfelt sympathies are with you and your family
"Rest Well Tyra Whitehead"
Shawn & Rhonda Williams

You'll always be in our hearts and a part of our family. We love and miss you but we will all be together again one day. Fly high sweet girl. Love you forever and always.

Leslie Lellenberg

Thank you Coach T for being Links first basketball coach, for sharing your passion of basketball with him and for becoming our friend. Your positivity and infectious smile will stay with us always. You will be missed. Sending love and prayers to your family. Kristy & Link (Australia)

I would say bye to my darling daughter,but see ya later kiddo. Mom loves u with all her heart ,we shared a special bond. My heart hurt because I will physically miss you but I know you are around checking on me. Rest in peace my daughter no more heart ache and pain. Love u Ty Ty always and forever.
Ps: we will continue to dance later like we always do