Leila Michelle McCarty

Born on Christmas Day, December 25, 1952, in Nashville, Tennessee, Leila grew up in Auburndale, Florida. She graduated from Auburndale High School in 1970 and later attended Polk County Community College.

Throughout her working years, Leila was employed by Scotties Building Materials Supply, was self-employed, and later worked at Walmart in Lake Wales. Wherever she worked, she formed meaningful connections with the people around her. Her coworkers loved her for her kindness, fun-loving nature, and warm, engaging smile, which made everyone feel welcome.

Leila had an enormous heart and gave generously of her time and attention. To Kim and Philip, she was their beloved Aunt Michelle. During their childhood summers in Florida, when they stayed with their grandparents, Aunt Michelle made every visit an adventure. She would pick them up for trips to the beach and plan special weekends filled with local festivals, theme parks, and community events. She had a wonderful ability to turn an ordinary day into a treasured memory.

Leila approached being an aunt with her whole heart, bringing imagination, laughter, and genuine interest into the lives of her niece and nephew. She understood that one of the greatest gifts a person can give is time, and she gave hers freely. She did not simply spend time with the people she loved; she made that time playful, joyful, and meaningful.

Leila’s smile seemed to begin in her heart. It was warm, genuine, contagious, and nearly impossible not to return. Her joyful spirit brought comfort and happiness to those around her. Leila treasured her friends and family, and she was deeply treasured in return.

Throughout her final days, Leila remained positive and focused not on herself, but on those she loved. With courage and tenderness, she reached out to the people who mattered to her so that she could say goodbye and tell each of them that she loved them. Those final conversations beautifully reflected the way she lived: thinking of others, speaking from the heart, and making certain that the people in her life knew how much they meant to her.

Leila will be remembered for her enormous heart, contagious smile, and remarkable gift for making people feel loved. Her legacy lives on in the people she encouraged, the family she cherished, and the countless moments she made brighter through simple acts of kindness. Her family and friends will carry her memory with them through the stories they share, the laughter she inspired, and the love she gave so freely.

Those who loved Leila can honor her memory by loving openly, giving generously of their time, and making sure the people who matter to them know they are treasured.

Leila was preceded in death by her parents, the Rev. E. M. McCarty and Johnny Lucille McCarty, and her brother, John Murray McCarty.

She is survived by her brothers, Jerry McCarty and Pat McCarty; her niece, Kim Alfonso; her nephew, Phil McCarty; and many extended family members and dear friends who loved her deeply.