Leyla Zyana Eunice Shorter

Leyla Zyana Eunice Shorter was born sleeping on June 20, 2026, to her loving parents, Marquis Rodriques Shorter and Juleya Breanna Smith.

Though her time on earth was brief, she forever changed the lives of those who loved her. As she entered their lives that morning, she also entered their hearts, where she will remain forever.

The loss of a child is an unimaginable sorrow. With Leyla's passing, countless hopes, dreams, and cherished moments were taken far too soon. Today, we honor Leyla's precious life and recognize the deep love her parents already had for their beautiful daughter. As Marquis and Juleya begin the difficult journey of navigating life without her, they are surrounded by the love and prayers of family and friends. Your kindness, support, and compassion will help carry them through the days ahead as they seek healing, hope, and peace.

We also remember and pray for Leyla's twin brother, Leaire Shorter, who continues to fight bravely in the NICU. May he be surrounded by strength, healing, and God's loving care.

Leyla is lovingly survived by her parents, Juleya Breanna Smith and Marquis Rodriques Shorter; her twin brother, Leaire Shorter; her great-grandmothers, Juliann Freeman, Faye Cloud, Betty J Campbell and Diane Shorter; her great-grandfather, Ronald Mason; her grandmother, Nartisha Shorter; her grandfather, Freddie Shorter; her godmother, Terresha Campbell; her uncles, Santino Torrez, Tarikas Owens, and Coryante Mayer; her aunts, Keiona Petaway and Siona Torrez; her great uncle Philip Freeman; her great aunts, Jakerra Mason and Shrita Cloud along with many cousins, extended family members, and loved ones who will forever cherish her memory.

She was preceded in death by her grandmother, Roneeshia Kapree Mason; her great-great-grandparents, Lowell and Freda Freeman, Louis Donald; and John Howard Mason.

Leyla weighed 1 pound, 9 ounces, measured 13¾ inches long, and was expected to arrive on September 15, 2026. Though she did not live to see that day, she will forever be remembered by everyone who eagerly awaited her arrival. Her tiny footprints have left an everlasting mark on the hearts of all who loved her.

A time of visitation for family and friends will be held from 12:00 p.m. until 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 2, 2026, at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home, Lima, Ohio. Funeral services will begin at 1:00 p.m. with Rev. Claytonia Logan officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to the family.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.chamberlainhuckeriede.com.

"Some people only dream of angels. We held one in our arms." Forever loved. Forever remembered. Forever Leyla.