Crystal Yolanda Garrett

It is with profound sorrow and heartfelt love that we announce the passing of Crystal Y. Garrett, a beloved wife, mother, Nana, nurse, and friend, who transitioned into eternal rest on December 30, 2024.

Born on July 23, 1968, in Texas, Crystal carried the warmth and strength of her country roots throughout her life. Her Texas upbringing instilled in her a love for family, community, and life’s simple joys.

Crystal was a dedicated and resilient mother who raised her children, Raheem Byrd and Clinton Lane, as a single mom with unconditional love and determination. Her sacrifices for them were a testament to the depth of her love and commitment. Whether working long hours to provide for them or making personal sacrifices to ensure their happiness and success, Crystal’s every action spoke of her devotion. She supported their decisions and choices, always encouraging them to strive to be good people and to live fulfilling lives. Her strength and guidance were the foundation upon which they built their futures, and her unwavering belief in them will forever remain an inspiration.

Crystal extended that same boundless love and devotion to her stepchildren, Kareem Garrett and Condola Garrett, embracing them as her own. She was a steadfast source of encouragement and pride in their lives, celebrating their accomplishments and guiding them with the same nurturing care that defined her role as a mother. Her blended family was a source of immense joy and love for Crystal, and she cherished the bonds they shared.

Her devotion also extended to her role as Nana, where she cared for her grandchildren with the same love and attention she gave her own children. Crystal nurtured Laishaun Lane, Azariah Lane, Ausjenay Lane, Lydianna Lane, Lailah Lane, Zakariya Watts-Garrett, Arinyah Hanes-Garrett, Micah Marquez, and Kyree Garrett as if they were her own. She celebrated their successes, comforted their struggles, and instilled in them the same values of love, kindness, and perseverance that defined her.

Crystal had a vibrant personality and a sense of humor that could brighten any room. She was incredibly funny and had an amazing ability to make people laugh, even during tough times. Her quick wit and joyful spirit were gifts she shared freely, bringing happiness to everyone around her.

She had a deep passion for music, particularly jazz, blues, and R&B. Crystal found great joy in attending music and jazz festivals, where she immersed herself in the rhythms and melodies that brought her soul to life. Whether it was a smooth jazz performance, a soulful blues song, or the timeless groove of R&B, music was a constant source of happiness and connection for her.

Crystal also loved traveling the world with her husband, Tracy Garrett, and part of the joy of their adventures was experiencing the local cuisine wherever they went. From savoring fresh seafood by the ocean to indulging in exotic dishes from far-off places, Crystal’s love for food was a reflection of her appreciation for life’s flavors and cultures. These culinary experiences often became cherished memories that she delighted in sharing with family and friends.

Shopping and playing the slots at the casino were among her favorite pastimes, where her fun-loving nature and zest for life always shone through.

Her commitment to serving others was evident in her work as a nurse, where she dedicated her career to caring for veterans. Her compassion, dedication, and selflessness left a lasting impact on the lives she touched.

Crystal was a cherished daughter to Jimmy Price, a loving sister to her late sister, Bernice Lane, and a devoted aunt to Samiyah Horne, Nailiyah Horne, Alora Young, Tina Lane, Quintaya Lane, and Josiah Horne. Her close friends, including Theresa, Lou Annye, Kay, and Walter, were like family to her and will forever cherish her humor, kindness, and wisdom.

Preceded in death by her mother, Bulah Mcintyre Drake, and her sister, Bernice Lane, Crystal is now reunited with them in the presence of the Lord. While we are deeply saddened by her passing, we take comfort in the words of Scripture:

“Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.” – Matthew 5:4

Crystal’s journey on this earth was one of faith, love, laughter, and service. She lived with authenticity, bringing joy, strength, and laughter to those around her. Though her earthly presence will be missed, her spirit will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew her.

A celebration of Crystal’s life will be held on Thursday, January 8, 2025, at 3 PM at Daniel’s Family Funeral Home, 3113 Carlisle Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87110. In honor of her compassionate heart, the family requests donations be made to the Susan G. Komen Foundation in lieu of flowers, to support the ongoing fight against breast cancer.

Rest in eternal peace, Crystal. May your laughter, love, and the melodies you cherished continue to echo in our hearts, and may your legacy of joy, kindness, and sacrifice inspire us to live as fully and passionately as you did. You have earned your wings, and you will be forever cherished.