Tyler Raiford-Andrews

Tyler Stephen Raiford-Andrews, 8, of Grand Ridge, Fl, was granted his angel wings on November 18, 2016 following a lifelong illness. His final days were spent surrounded by his twin brother, Leo; his mother, Elizabeth Raiford; his step dad, Walter Warner; his nana, Mary Floyd; gmom, Ronda Raiford, as well as the Covenant Hospice ladies whom fell in love with him instantly.

Tyler's family sends their condolences to family and friends that Tyler had touched in some small way throughout his short, yet very memorable life.

Tyler's life would seem too short to many, but those who were touched by him understood that the quality of existence far exceeds the quantity of time in which one lives. His gentle smile could melt the hearts of those around him and though he never spoke a word, his voice and thoughts could always be heard.

Although Tyler's illness made him appear frail, he possessed strength, perseverance, and an ability to overcome incredible odds. With his courage he helped numerous people believe in miracles and that each day is a blessing and an opportunity to create lasting memories. He could spend hours cuddling close to those he loved. He enjoyed music of all kinds, sleeping late, and Alabama football. He loved listening to the sounds of football, his twin brother Leo talk, laugh and cry which would make him smile.

Tyler loved all his nurses at Tallahassee Children's Center. They always made him feel super special and always loved. He loved his people to pieces. Tyler was always a happy child with smiles for days, no matter the hardship he endured.

With Tyler's passing we are reminded that his life is one to be celebrated. Although we will miss him dearly, we will especially miss his infectious smile. He will forever remain in our hearts. Through his teachings about life we were able to create wonderful memories and it has been a privilege to be his parents. We are so thankful to have been able to call him our son.

Tyler was preceded in death by his great grandfather, William J. Floyd; great grandfather, James Raiford; great grandmother, Constance Raiford; great aunt, Debbie Mullen, and great uncle, Thomas M. Floyd

Tyler is survived in death by his twin brother, Leo J. Raiford-Andrews; his mother, Elizabeth Raiford; step father, Walter Warner of Grand Ridge,Fl.; his step siblings, Kayla, Jason and James Warner of Deltona, Fl.; his step brother, Kyle Andrews of West Plains, Mo.; his father, Chad Andrews of West Plains, Mo.; his grandfather, Eugene Raiford of Wyoming; grandmother, Ronda Raiford of Grand Ridge, Fl.; grandmother, Karen Andrews of West Plains, Mo.; grandfather, Brent Andrews of Tucson, Az; great grandmother, Mary Floyd of Grand Ridge, Fl.; aunt, Amanda Andrews and Melanie Olmstead; cousins, Logan Heitzman and Liam Rosenboom of Tucson, Az.; cousins, Irvanna and Haley Olmstead of Bartow, Fl., and many other family members from all over.

Funeral services will be 1 p.m. Tuesday, November 22, 2016 at James & Sikes Funeral Home Maddox Chapel. The family will receive friends one hour prior to services. Private interment will follow with James & Sikes Funeral Home Maddox Chapel directing.