Alyvia Fort-Miller

Alyvia “Lyvi” T’Yasia Fort-Miller, of Rockford, Illinois, peacefully entered eternal rest on May 22, 2026. She was born on June 24, 2007, to LaTasha Miller and Reginald Fort-Safford, Sr.

Alyvia was a member of Liberty Baptist Church, where she was baptized and accepted Christ at an early age. She served as an usher, a junior kitchen committee member, and was always willing to lend a helping hand around the church, as evidenced by her faithful volunteer service at various church events.

Alyvia was a bright light whose compassion, warmth, and generous spirit touched the lives of those who knew her. She possessed a beautiful soul and had a unique ability to make others feel seen, valued, and loved. Her strength, resilience, and unwavering determination inspired those around her, while her infectious smile brought comfort and joy to so many.

Alyvia graduated from Auburn High School as a member of the Class of 2026. She aspired to become a pediatric cardiac nurse, a goal inspired by her own medical journey. She hoped to work in that specialty for several years before becoming a traveling nurse while also pursuing her interest in real estate and building a portfolio of investment properties.

Alyvia had a passion for bowling and was a dedicated member of the Auburn High School girls' bowling team. She participated throughout high school, missing only her junior season due to hospitalization. During her senior year, she proudly served as co-captain alongside her best friend. In addition to competing, Alyvia enjoyed helping coach and mentor middle school bowlers. She was excited to continue her bowling career as a member of the women's bowling team at Judson University in Elgin, Illinois, during the upcoming academic year.

Alyvia cherished spending time with family and friends. She enjoyed playing UNO, Tic-Tac-Toe, and participating in family gatherings and game nights. A talented and creative artist, she painted numerous original pieces on canvas, many of which are displayed in the homes of family members. Alyvia also played the piano and enjoyed creating original music using keyboards and music production software. She loved expressing her creativity through makeup and nail artistry as well.

Alyvia leaves behind countless fun and loving memories to be cherished by her parents, LaTasha Miller and Reginald Fort-Safford, Sr.; three sisters, Kamarah Robinson, Rejanee Safford-Horton, and Ayanna Curtis; four brothers, Jalen Buguard, Redrique Barfield, Orlando Barfield, and JaQuavis Safford; maternal grandparents, Reverend Willie (Jennifer) Miller; paternal grandmother, Kathy Safford; maternal great-grandparents, Florence Buckley and A.D. Lott, Jr.; aunts, Kishla Miller, Eliesa Miller, Roshonda (Nigel) Stewart, and Ronda Fort; uncle, Ronaldo Fort; special cousins, Leesie Miller, Ty’Tania Jones, Kionte Lewis, Maurice Huntley, Ka’Miyah Miller, MJ Huntley, and Malanie Huntley; a host of other relatives, church family, her best friend, Mya Stone, and many dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her siblings, Keyaira Williams and Reginald Safford, Jr.; uncle, Mansur Miller; paternal grandfather, Ronald Safford; maternal great-grandparents, Amos and Mamie Miller, Daniel Buckley, Jr., and Irene Lott; paternal great-grandparents, Lonnie and Hattie Fort; and her special cousin, Dalia Allen.

Though her journey ended sooner than any of us expected, the joy Alyvia shared and the lives she touched will remain a lasting part of her legacy. She will be remembered not only for what she endured, but for the love, light, and kindness she shared so freely.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at Liberty Baptist Church, 3500 Preston Street, Rockford, Illinois. Interment, followed by an honorary balloon release, will take place at Sunset Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens, 8800 North Alpine Road, Machesney Park, Illinois. Visitation will be held at the church from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service.