Kayla M. Smith

Kayla Michelle Smith, a beloved mother, sister and daughter, passed away peacefully on June 18, 2021, surrounded by her family.

Kayla is survived by her Mother Janet Stroud (Rolla Dolph), her Father Jerry Smith, Her brothers Christopher Powell, Donnie Powell, Joshua Powell, her sisters Alexa Ball, and Aleya Stroud. She is survived by her Grandmother Janet Fugate and Cathy Smith. She is also survived by Donnie Powell Sr and Rolla Dolph, both of whom she loved dearly as a father. She is predeceased by both of her grandfathers, Jerry Fugate and Jerry Smith.

Kayla had two children - son Christian Chandler (12) and daughter Chelsea Chandler (11) - both of whom were her ENTIRE WORLD. Kayla loved and dedicated herself to her family. Being a mother, a daughter, a sister - these were roles Kayla took to heart and her love and devotion for her family were always prominently on display. The extent of her adoration for her family was never in doubt by anyone who knew her.

Kayla had many nieces, nephews, cousins, and aunts and uncles who she loved and who loved her so dearly. She maintained such personal individual relationships with her family members and at the top of that long list was her GG Janet Fugate.

Growing up, Kayla spent much of her childhood with her aunt Sharon Fugate and cousin Lesley Bryant, both were more like sisters to her. As children, and then young adults, they were inseparable and maintained what they refer to as their 'forever bond'.

Kayla really enjoyed being a big sister to her brothers, and eventually got her wish and became a big sister to her two younger sisters. She was always so incredibly proud of her younger brothers and sisters and was sure to remind them often. She also had a special cousin - Khelcy Marie - who helped her smile, even during some of life's most challenging times. She also shared a special bond with her cousin Brittny Boswell.

One of Kayla's favorite pastimes was watching her favorite sitcom - "Friends". She and her mother watched this together throughout her childhood and it would become one of her special-time activities with her own children and her sisters. Over the past 6 years, she watched every episode - repeating many over and over again. they provided her enjoyment and brought her comfort, including during visits to the hospital for treatment, where her Mom would often join her, and they would re live some of her cherished childhood memories which would strengthen their bond. This special time with her family was an essential source of strength for Kayla during her battle with her illness.

Following her diagnosis in 2015, Kayla fought valiantly throughout her unrelenting battle with Leukemia. Her strength was immeasurable and her will to persevere for her children was immense. Through her journey, she would show, time and again, her amazing spirit and enormous heart. Almost to a fault, even at times of tremendous need, Kayla always put the wishes of others ahead of hers.

Kayla will be deeply missed and loved by everyone close to her. She can finally run again and watch over her family from the Heavens. Her spirit and memories of her beautiful, contagious smile will live on through all who knew her.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 7:00 p.m. on Friday, June 25, 2021 at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center in Danville, Illinois, 3940 N Vermilion St. Danville, Illinois 61834. Officiating will be Pastor Taylor. Visitation will be held just prior to the service from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

Please join Kaylas family in sharing memories, photos, and videos on her tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.

Services Visitation Friday June 25, 2021 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM Sunset Funeral Home & Cremation Center 3940 N Vermilion St. Danville, Il 61834 Funeral Service Friday June 25, 2021 7:00 PM Sunset Funeral Home & Cremation Center 3940 N Vermilion St. Danville, Il 61834