Shaylea Rae Gaona, age 21, passed away on Sunday, January 25, 2026, in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Born in Fort Wayne, Shaylea was a daughter of Leobardo Gaona and Shayla Smith.
Shaylea attended Carroll High School. From an early age, her vibrant personality shined brightly and touched the lives of everyone she met. She was employed at Dairy Queen in Huntertown, where she formed many friendships and genuinely enjoyed talking with customers. Her sarcastic yet hilarious sense of humor often left those around her laughing uncontrollably.
Shaylea had a creative spirit and enjoyed painting, crafting, shopping, going fishing with her grandpa Rick, listening to music, and spending time with her friends and family. Though only 21 years old, she was becoming quite the cook and especially loved preparing seafood boils.
Above all else, Shaylea’s greatest joy was her family. She shared a deep, lifelong love with Malachi Stewart, and together they cherished their nine-month-old son, Kyzir. Watching Kyzir grow brought Shaylea immense happiness and fulfillment.
Surviving are her lifelong love, Malachi Stewart; their son, Kyzir Gaona-Stewart; her parents, Shayla Smith and Leobardo Gaona; sister, Solana Gaona; brother, Leo Gaona; grandparents, Rick (Pat) Smith; grandma, Lisa Reader; and many aunts, uncles, and extended family members.
She was preceded in death by her grandpa, Scott Reader.
A Celebration of Shaylea’s Life will be held from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Friday, February 6, 2026, at FairHaven Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 6557 N. Clinton Street, Fort Wayne, Indiana.
Memorial contributions may be made to Kyzir Gaona-Stewart’s Educational Fund, in care of Shayla Smith.