Lakela Roneil Girdy “Kela” 39 of Victoria, Texas passed away peacefully on April 9, 2025, surrounded by her family and friends.
Kela was born on November 22, 1985, in Victoria, Texas to Lacy Franklin and Clarence McGrew. Kela’s kindness, generosity, and love for her family will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew her. She believed in building relationships and memories that stand the test of time. Her true passion and gift as a caregiver began at an early age, which was sparked by her great-grandfather, the late Roosevelt Franklin. He hired Kela for her first job, cleaning for The Janitorial Service. And later in life as his personal caregiver. (She loved caring for people.) These life-changing events assisted in fulfilling her priorities at home, at work, and making tough decisions in life.
On December 28, 2013, Kela united in Holy Matrimony to Hykeen O’Shon Girdy.
Lessons learned, along with the qualities of her heart: faith, love, and repentance made her the amazing wife, an exceptional mother, daughter, sister, and cousin who loved her family. And like her grandpa a stranger to none!
Kela loved watching the cooking channels and cooking. She did not need a recipe; she was the recipe. Adding her own twist to each dish she cooked. Kela had her own way of seasoning that was not just sugar and spice. No one ever left hungry. She loved spending time and cooking with her husband, Shon, their children, family, and friends too!
Lakela accepted Christ at a youthful age. She was the glue and foundation that held everyone together despite challenges, situations, and changes. She always kept her faith. She truly fought a good fight and finished her race.
Kela is survived by Hykeen Girdy “Shon” (husband), Lacy Franklin (mother), Clarence McGrew (father), Leon Dean (father in law), Willie Mae Dean (mother in law), Latrena Huff, Jalah Franklin, Keriana Franklin (daughters), Damarion Huff “Bubba”, Lamont Franklin, Hykeen Girdy Jr. “Dunna” (sons), Dominique Franklin, Aron Franklin, Shaquay Hargrove, Shanice Hosey (siblings), and Robin Franklin, Gracie McGrew (grandparents). A host of aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.
Kela is preceded in death by Zaveon Franklin (child), Clarence Ray McGrew Sr (grandfather) Roosevelt Franklin (great grandfather) Lovie Franklin (great grandmother), Elnora Franklin (aunt), Eulaih Girdy (aunt), Loisteen Franklin Daniels (aunt).
Family and friends will gather for visitation on Monday, April 21, 2025 from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM with a Funeral Service at 1:00 PM at Grace Memorial Chapel, 8819 US Hwy. 87 N. in Victoria, Texas. Burial will follow at Mission Valley Cemetery.
Thoughts and memories may be shared online at www.gracefuneralhome.net.
Arrangements and services are under the personal care of Grace Funeral Homes and Cemeteries.