Makiya Sanchez 21 of Ruskin Florida.

It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of the tragic passing of Makiya, who lost her life in a car accident on April 28th, 2026, while on her way home from work.

Makiya was a loving young lady who enjoyed life to the fullest and cherished her time with family and friends. She had a deep passion for singing—a talent she was so proud of that she even auditioned for America’s Got Talent. She often joked that Simon Cowell was the only reason she wasn’t accepted.

Born on August 25, 2004, to the late Dreena Fitzwater and Gene Sanchez, Makiya was preceded in death by her maternal and paternal grandparents; her uncles Dennis Miller, Robert (Bob) Orr, Clyde Roberts, and Jerry Roberts; and her cousin Cody Orr.

She is survived by her sisters, Misty Rollins, Jasmine Sanchez, Brandy Macias, and Natalie Macias; her brother, Justin Howard; her nieces, Kylah Howard, Jayden Howard, Aleah Courington, and Dixie Howard; and her nephew, RJ Rollins. She also leaves behind her aunts, Debbie Orr, Darlene Bullock, DeeDee (Bobby) Marsh, Diann Miller, Darla Miller, and Olga Macias; her uncles, Donald (Stephanie) Miller, Darryl Mike (Tammy) Miller, Joe Macias, and Ray Macias; as well as many cousins and a large extended family of friends.

A memorial service to celebrate Makiya’s life will be held on May 9th, 2026, at 10:30 am at:

Simmons Loop Baptist Church

6610 Simmons Loop

Riverview, FL 33578

We hope you can join us in honoring her memory.