Layla MacKenzie Walker

Nineteen years was not nearly enough time for all the love, laughter, and magic Layla Mackenzie Walker had to give. But in those nineteen years, she filled every moment with joy, sass, and an unshakable spirit that refused to let anything—least of all a diagnosis—define her. Layla passed away peacefully on March 7, 2025, surrounded by the family who adored her, leaving behind a lifetime of memories that will shine as brightly as she did.

A proud student at Powell High School, Layla approached life with boundless enthusiasm. From the moment she entered the world, she was a force—sweet yet stubborn, strong yet gentle, with a mischievous sparkle in her eye. Diagnosed with cerebral palsy at just six months old, she never let it stop her from fully embracing life’s joys. And oh, did she find joy everywhere. Whether she was baking in the kitchen with her mom, painting masterpieces with her adaptive technologies (which she mastered in no time, of course), or planning the perfect outfit for the day, Layla approached life with a determination that was as inspiring as it was endearing.

Her love for Disney was unmatched, especially for her favorite princess, Rapunzel. Like Rapunzel, Layla had an adventurous spirit, a heart full of wonder, and an ability to see the world through the lens of possibility. One of the most magical moments of her life came on her recent trip to Disney World. It was a place built for dreams, and she got to experience it fully, riding every accessible attraction, soaking in the wonder, and making memories that will last forever in the hearts of those who shared that adventure with her.

Layla also found peace in nature. One of her favorite places was Norris Dam, where she loved strolling along the river, taking in the beauty of the world around her. She also adored the songbirds outside her window, filling her yard with bird feeders so she could watch them as she relaxed inside, surrounded by love.

Her sense of fun was unmatched. Every birthday was an event, filled with love, laughter, and the kind of celebration only her mom could orchestrate. Halloween? That was her time to shine, always sporting the best costume in the neighborhood. And though she had a stubborn streak a mile wide, she had a weakness—Reese’s cups. If ever persuasion was needed, a little chocolate could work wonders.

She was the youngest of three and fiercely loved her older siblings. Her sister, Mara, a respiratory therapist, once treated Layla—and from that day on, if Mara was in scrubs, Layla refused to even look at her unless she came bearing a famous chocolatey bribe. Her older brother, Cameron, was her safe place and constant source of excitement. If she heard his voice from another room, she would immediately start hollering for him, demanding he come say hello and tell her all about his day.

Layla’s mom was her biggest supporter, advocate, and best friend. When she passed away in 2023, the loss was immeasurable, but Layla carried her love forward in every moment. Her dad became her unwavering rock, caring for her with boundless love while still making time for his grandson, Barrett, and granddaughter, Riley. Layla was a proud aunt, always keeping a watchful eye on the little ones as they ran through the house, making sure they knew she was in charge.

Layla had a love for all things girlie—having her nails painted, getting her hair done, and making sure she looked just right. But she also had the quirkiest, most wonderful interests. She adored The Lawrence Welk Show in a way no one quite understood, but it brought her endless joy. She was obsessed with Harry Potter, believing in the magic of meaningful relationships, adventure, and the possibility of something greater.

Layla was a sweetheart, wrapped in sass, laughter, and love. She lived with a boldness that defied expectations, embracing life on her terms, with her family by her side. The loss of her is immeasurable, but so is the love she left behind. To honor Layla, her family invites you to do something she would have loved—fill your yard with bird feeders, enjoy a piece of chocolate, or simply find the magic in the everyday moments. Because that’s what Layla did best.

Layla is survived by her father, Greg; sister, Mara (Matt) Beeler; brother, Cameron (Katie); grandparents, Judy, Terry (Amy) Cain; aunts and uncles, Scott, Randall (Charlie), Rebekah (Chris) Wilson, Tim Cain; nephew, Barrett Beeler; niece, Riley; cousins, Chelsea (Aaron) Suffridge, Elizabeth and Jessica Wilson, Chase, Blaine; and numerous extended family members.

Layla is preceded in death by her mother, Noelle; grandmother, Phyllis Cain; and grandfather, Bobby.

A special thank you to the East Tennessee Children’s Hospital Pediatric Intensive Care Unit staff for the outstanding care provided during her hospitalization.

To honor and celebrate Layla’s life, the family asks that you wear purple or butterflies to her visitation Thursday, March 13, 2025 from 4:00 PM until 6:00 PM in the chapel of Berry Lynnhurst Funeral Home, 2300 Adair Drive, Knoxville, TN. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Make-A-Wish of East Tennessee or Give Kids the World Village in Kissimmee, FL, organizations that bring joy to children just like Layla, who found magic in every moment.

A private graveside service will be held for the family and close friends Tuesday, April 22, 2025, 1:00 PM at Greenwood Cemetery, Tazewell Pike, Knoxville, TN.

Online condolences and fond memories may be shared with the Walker family at www.berrylynnhurst.com