Sydney René Willoughby

Sydney Rene Willoughby, 26, was born in Memphis, Tennessee, the daughter of the late Raymond Willoughby III and Penny Willoughby Briggs – a joyful memory they will never forget.

“Little Sydney” was a spirited child and, boy how she loved to run and play – she would always pretend that she was a puppy. As she journeyed along, her love for animals became more evident as every family pet was one that Sydney had rescued.

Sydney had a special and unique bond with her brothers, Ray and Connor – lots of love, laughter, and the usual sibling rivalry. Ray and Connor truly loved her so and will miss her dearly.

She was gifted with a creative mind and loved creating art projects, all over the house, everywhere. She was a very softspoken and gentle mother to her daughter, Bailey, whom she loved spending time with, and they both loved creating art projects together, all over the house, everywhere. Sydney loved Bailey, and Bailey loved Sydney.

Sydney had the sweetest and the best grandmothers in the whole world. Gay, Gloria, Cathi and Melba – always there for her with every encouraging word and every uplifted prayer. Aunts. Sheila, Lora Leigh, Marsha, Trudy, Crystal, Tiffany, and Samantha – all precious and influential in her life. Tons of cousins. Seven to be exact. And they all had the best of times on vacations and family outings.

A fond memory of Sydney and her dad, Ray, are the times she sat beside him with those big blue eyes looking up while he played the piano. They are together now, and the music is still playing. And, by the grace of God, who always knows best, Bo became her stepfather and there were many days filled with love and laughter. Those moments will always be cherished.

Through the laughter and tears, through the sunshine and rain, through all of life’s challenges, through all of life’s pain, the love between Sydney and her mother, Penny, was always honest and pure.

Her gentle spirit and kind heart will never be forgotten, and Sydney will continue to permeate every corner of our lives.

Sydney passed on September 21, 2024, leaving behind a family who loved her dearly.

Funeral Services for Sydney were held at 3 P.M. Sunday, September 29, 2024 at Collierville First Pentecostal Church. Interment will be at 12 noon Monday, September 30, 2024 in Memphis Memorial Gardens at Bartlett.