Alayna Ruth Hulsey, age 12, of Gunter, Texas, passed away at home in her mother’s arms, surrounded by family, on June 5, 2025. She was born on July 31, 2012, in Allen, Texas, to Kristy (Anderson) Hulsey and Jeff Hulsey.
Alayna brought joy, love, and light into the lives of everyone who knew her. She had a bright smile, a kind heart, and a spirit that radiated warmth. Alayna had a deep love for music from many decades and genres. Whether it was classic rock, pop, or country, she loved to crank up her music, clap to the beat, and sing along in her own beautiful way. Her voice filled the room with a sound and spirit that made others smile. Her days were filled with music, laughter, and the simple magic of being surrounded by love. She enjoyed being read to and watching her favorite shows on her iPad alongside the people she loved most. Her favorite colors were pink and purple, and she was affectionately known to many as “Sparkles.”
Alayna participated in the Special Olympics and earned many medals over the years. She also took part in Showing With Heart, a program created to give students with special needs the opportunity to show an animal. While she may not have always been thrilled about the spotlight, she met each experience with quiet strength and the gentle presence that made her so loved by all who knew her.
She is deeply loved and will be forever missed by her mother, Kristy Hulsey of Gunter, Texas; her father, Jeff Hulsey of Whitewright, Texas; and her grandmothers, Linda “Mimi” Anderson of Gunter and Judy Fraley of Whitewright. She is also survived by her uncles and aunts: Michael Riley of Sherman, Texas; Steve Hulsey and wife, Deborah, of Dallas, Texas; and Mike Hulsey and wife, Jennifer, of Newman, Georgia. Her cousins include Stephanie Riley, Austin Riley, Logan Hulsey, Dane Hulsey, Shannen Mahon, and Oren Hulsey.
Alayna was welcomed into heaven by her Papa, Richard Anderson, and her Poppy, Homer Fraley.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, June 14, 2025, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. at Turrentine-Jackson-Morrow Funeral Home in Gunter, Texas. A celebration to honor her larger-than-life spirit will take place at a later date in July.