Phaedra Devora Welton

Ms. Phaedra Devora Welton, age 49, of Sanford, NC, transitioned to eternal rest on Thursday, October 30, 2025, at UNC Hospitals in Chapel Hill, NC.

Obituary

Phaedra Devora Welton, daughter of Van Welton, the late Devora Brown Murchison, and stepdaughter of the late David Murchison was born March 10, 1976, in Newark, New Jersey. As a young child Phaedra, along with her mother and father, moved to a few different states but ultimately spent the majority of her life in Sanford, North Carolina. Phaedra attended school within the Lee County school systems and upon the completion of her education she pursued a career in various roles.

During this time, Phaedra worked at Liberty Commons Nursing & Rehabilitation Center as well as a receptionist at Days Inn Hotel. Phaedra’s bubbly and welcoming personality allowed her to execute these roles daily creating a safe space for residents and guests for several years. Many of Phaedra’s friends and family describe her as smiley, dependable, funny, warm hearted, and selfless. 

On March 13, 2004, Phaedra married the love of her life, the late Tyson Williams. Together they blended their families in holy matrimony at Star of Hope OFWB Church. Phaedra was loved and cherished by Tyson’s family and friends.

In her early adulthood, Phaedra was a member at Star of Hope OFWB Church, where she served in the choir for several years. Phaedra was one who enjoyed her free time doing fun things with friends and family. She enjoyed cooking meals and baking sweet treats for everyone to try. Her most memorable dishes being her famous fried chicken, corn bread, and peach cobbler. She enjoyed spending time shopping and watching her favorite television shows. Her infectious laugh and illuminating spirit will be missed by all her family and friends.

Phaedra is preceded in death by her loving mother, Devora Brown Murchison; stepfather, David Murchison; husband, Tyson Williams; grandfather, Robert Brown; one uncle, Elbert Brown; and one aunt, Roberta Brown Richmond. 

She leaves to cherish and honor her memory, her loving children, Aaron Welton, Trey’Je Buchanon, and stepson, Antwon Willams; beloved stepsisters, Sherri Murchison-Green (Darryl), and Deborah Murchison; grandmother, Annie Louise Brown; grandchildren, Jayden Omari Welton, Paris Amaya Welton, and Ke’mari Ace Welton; one uncle, Harrison Brown and four aunts, Glenda Walker (Thomas), Donna “Kay” Brown, Maggie “Sissy” Garrett, and Beverly McGilveary (Thomas). She also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family and friends who will continue to honor and treasure her legacy.

Family will receive friends on Wednesday and Thursday, November 5th and 6th from 4-7 p.m.
Donations may be made to Knotts Funeral Home.

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Professional services entrusted to Knotts Funeral Home-Sanford, NC