Nakoa Ray Pitts, the smiling, happy, precious son of Tristan Ward and Emma Pitts suddenly passed away on Wednesday morning, April 15, 2026.

God blessed us with a beautiful soul on January 18, 2026, at Maury Regional Medical Center in Columbia. Nakoa loved feeding time, being sung to, and putting a smile on everyone’s face around him. Nakoa was full of love and had a precious smile that could light up the darkest rooms.

Left behind to cherish his memory are his mother Emma Pitts, his father Tristan Ward, special cousins Samantha McKean and Jesse McKean, uncle’s Brandon Johnson, Jim Murrel, aunt’s Jaedyn Ward, Shawna McKnight, Stephanie Murrel, ‘Gigi’ Amanda Pitts, great grandparents Susie Walbrown, Judith Pitts, and multiple beloved family and friends not listed.

Nakoa was greeted in heaven by his beautiful grandmother, Tikara Black; precious cousin Mathaelio Ward; uncle Jordyn Ward, and great-grandmother Mavis Pitts.

The family will receive friends from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM on Friday, April 24, 2026, at Williams Funeral Home in Columbia, Tennessee. The celebration of Nakoa's life will be held at 2:00 PM at Williams Funeral Home in Columbia, Tennessee. Nakoa will be laid to rest at Polk Memorial Gardens. A reception will be held at Williams Funeral Home in Blevins Hall following the burial.

Williams Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences can be given to the family at williamsfh.com.