Layla A’Yanna Smith, beloved infant daughter of April Tipler and Larry Smith was born January 14, 2026. Layla was 5 months and 4 days old. 

Layla brought immense joy to her family in her short time of being with them. Her presence was like a tiny flame that lit up the lives of all she touched from day one from the hospital staff to friends and family. Layla was instantly everyone’s princess. Her maternal grandmother Bobbie Tipler Bogan, maternal great grandmother Ella Lee Tipler, and Aunt Trisha Owens have all preceded her in death.

Layla was a true daddy’s girl whose smile and spirit shone most brilliantly in the company of Dad and her brother Larry Smith III (Pooh). She would love to hear her Momma try and sing a few songs gazing upward with big beautiful brown eyes prompting Momma to play a few tunes from YouTube so Layla could kick her little feet and move her hands up and down as if she was dancing to the beat. She instantly knew when Mickey Mouse Clubhouse was on TV her favorite and enjoyed watching her baby projector shine bright lights around the room. Feedings and bath time were also instant favorites as she slept peacefully every night after that routine was complete. She also knew whenever her aunts, uncles and grandmother were around her because she would always make a little noise every time she heard their voices. Through her days were few they were filled with boundless affection and the deep love of her family.

In the early morning hours of June 18, 2026, Layla heard the voice of her loving Saviour say, “Come and rest where sickness is no more", leaving behind an everlasting imprint on the heart of her parents April Tipler and Larry Smith. She also leaves to cherish her memories two brothers Larry Smith III and Jonquirieon Hines. Her paternal grandparents Larry and Lille B. Smith of Charleston MO. Her maternal grandfather Anthony (Elizabeth) Bogan of Charleston MO and maternal great grandmother Mary Alice Bogan, special aunt who loved her like her own Renee Smith of Charleston MO, and a host of uncles, aunts, cousins and other relatives and friends.

Though Layla’s time with us was heartbreakingly brief, her spirit remains a shining star of hope, light and love. A reminder that even the smallest flame can light the darkest corners of our hearts. Let her family and friends find comfort in the knowledge that her Layla’s flame will forever burn brightly in their souls. Rest peacefully, dear Layla, cradled by the steadfast love of Jesus Christ our savior, and all those who love you forever.

Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until the funeral hour at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, June 27, 2026, at the McMikle Funeral Home in Charleston.

Interment will follow in the Oak Grove Cemetery near Charleston.

Online condolences may be shared at www.mcmiklefuneralhome.com