Alysia Yvette Blakely

Alysia Yvette “Lee” Blakely, a beloved daughter, sister, educator, friend, and woman of faith, was born on March 9, 1979, to the late Jessie Blakely, Jr. and Cora Jones Blakely. She departed this life on September 15, 2026, in West Helena, Arkansas, at the age of 47. From an early age, Alysia possessed a joyful spirit that was uniquely her own. Known for her infectious laughter, playful sense of humor, and kind heart, she had a gift for making others smile and feel welcomed, valued, and loved. Her warmth and joy created countless memories that will forever be cherished. Alysia was a faithful and longtime member of New Light Missionary Baptist Church, where she served on the women’s church choir and decorating committee. Her faith and commitment to service were woven throughout her life. Education was one of Alysia’s greatest expressions of purpose. She dedicated 22 years to educating and inspiring young people, beginning her teaching career at Eliza Miller Middle School, where she taught 8th Grade Math and AP Algebra. She later served as a Science Facilitator at Marvell-Elaine High School before continuing her career at Central High School, where she taught a variety of subjects, including Science, Biology, Chemistry, Algebra, and Career and Technical Education courses. Alysia had recently begun a new chapter at Phillips Community College of the University of Arkansas, where she accepted a position teaching Biology. Though her time there was brief, she brought the same passion, dedication, and love for her students that defined her remarkable career. She was more than a teacher—she was a mentor, encourager, role model, and source of joy. Her students loved her dearly, and she was affectionately known as a five-star teacher. For Alysia, teaching was not simply a profession; it was a calling and an opportunity to make a lasting difference. Alysia earned her Bachelor of Science degree from Arkansas State University and her Master of Science degree from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. Her commitment to service extended beyond the classroom through the American Cancer Society Relay for Life, UAPB Alumni Association, 21st Century, and the Helena Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, where she served as Financial Secretary. Beyond her many accomplishments, Alysia loved living life. She enjoyed cooking, traveling, shopping, watching The Golden Girls, and, most of all, spending time with those she loved. She will forever be remembered for her laughter, humor, generosity, and the joy she brought to others. Above all, Alysia loved her family. She leaves to cherish her memory her mother, Cora Jones Blakely; sister, Adrian Yvette Blakely Yarbrough; niece, Emily Yarbrough; nephew, Christian Yarbrough; great-niece, Christina Yarbrough; Godchildren, Alexandria Sanders, Amera Mills, Collin Tims, Carrington Sims, Myles Williams, Masen Williams, and Faithe Williams; God sisters, Valerie Bobo and Patrice Story; God brothers, Freddie Harris, Alvin Pitmon, and Jeffery Hunt; a very special friend, Kevin Hickmon; special friends Aretha Jackson, Annette Trice, Donna Edmond, Barbra Bryant, Denetra Williams, and Feyauthei Williams; and a host of beloved family members and friends. She will also be deeply missed by countless students and former students, colleagues, church members, sorority sisters, and all whose lives she touched. Alysia’s life was a beautiful reflection of love, laughter, kindness, faith, service, and dedication. Her lessons will live on through her students, her love through her family, her service through her community, and her laughter through the memories of everyone blessed to know her. Though her earthly journey has ended, the impact of her life will continue through the many lives she touched.