Sequoyah Piland-Arias

It is with extreme sadness that we announce the passing of Sequoyah Piland-Arias, 21, of Asheville, North Carolina. He left us unexpectedly on Wednesday, April 10, 2024. Sequoyah was a bright spark in this world. His gentle soul was a gift to all who crossed his path, and his absence leaves an unimaginable void in our hearts. 

Sequoyah spent his childhood playing outside with friends, swimming with his parents and goofing around with his cousin, Lucien. He went to school at Friends of Mine Preschool, Evergreen Community Charter School and A.C. Reynolds High School. After school, Sequoyah worked at Fed Ex, Panera and finally at Ingles. His teachers and supervisors described him as a hard worker who was always respectful with never an unkind word for anyone. 

As Sequoyah grew older, he discovered a deep passion for his own interests, which shaped his identity and connection to the world. He loved playing video games, watching movies and critiquing them, listening to all kinds of eclectic music, watching anime and making sound edits, and reading manga. He was incredibly smart and passionate about the things he liked, and he loved debating them with others (even if you weren’t trying to debate anything in particular). He knew all the best movies, books and music, and introduced those around him to so much.

Sequoyah adored his family. He looked forward to spending time with his cousins -- “The Three Amigos” -- and all of his relatives in Texas and Michigan where he could simply be 100% himself. He also cared deeply for his friends and supported them in their times of need.

Sequoyah’s legacy is one of emotional leadership. He will live forever through the memories of those who had the opportunity to know him. He had the rare ability to feel others' deep emotions and to love immensely with all his heart. Since childhood, wherever he went, others would follow. His sense of humor was unparalleled. From silly faces to practical jokes, he could always make us laugh. He embodied the qualities of strength and stability to his dear friends. This solidity earned him the nickname “Tree”. 

Sequoyah is survived by his loving mother, Danielle Arias, and her partner, Bert Ferrero; his father, Gordon Piland; his Grams, Judy Arias; Grandpa, Fredy Arias; Aunt, Stina (David) Romero; Aunt, Wendy (Rod) Brownell; Aunt, Jessica (Raul) Villarreal; Aunt, Marissa (Emmanuel) Santana; cousins, Caleb, Tori, Lucien, Isaiah, Natalia, Flora, Ariana, Elijah, Yadriel, and many other loving relatives and friends.

He joins his Great Grandpa Pedro; Grandma Sharon and Uncle Mark in heaven, where they are sure to spend their days creating delicious recipes.

Sequoyah will always be remembered as a gift to us all. We were blessed to have walked this earth with his sweet spirit. He will be terribly missed by his family and friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held on July 20, 2024 at 3pm, in Conference Room A/B at Christmount, 222 Fern Way, Black Mountain, N.C.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Sequoyah Piland-Arias, please visit our floral store.