Kayla Ann Elliott, age 27, of Medora, a beloved daughter, wife, mom, and teacher at Jackson Elementary and Seymour Community Schools, passed away on Friday, January 17, 2025.
Kayla was a devoted second-grade teacher at Jackson Elementary School in Seymour for the past five years. She dedicated her life to nurturing and inspiring young minds. Her passion for education and love for her students was evident in every lesson she taught and every smile she shared. Kayla's influence extended beyond the classroom, leaving a lasting impact on colleagues, parents, and students alike.
Kayla held her family close to her heart, especially her son. She made it a nightly tradition to read Bible stories to him, and she also loved and cherished spending time playing outside together. Her son and her teaching career were the center of her world. She also found joy in fishing, hiking, and camping with her family and her husband.
Kayla's radiant spirit and unwavering kindness touched the lives of everyone she met. She always helped everyone else before herself. Her loss leaves a void in our hearts and our community that words cannot fill.
Born on December 26, 1997, in Seymour, Kayla was the daughter of Steve and Kris (Gerkin) Pride, both of whom survive in Brownstown. On June 6, 2020, she married Bryan Lee Elliott, and he survives in Medora.
Survivors also include her dear son, River Matthews Elliott; one brother, Michael Pride; mother-in-law, Rebecca Elliott; mother-in-law, Kathy Downs; paternal grandfather, Jerry Pride; maternal grandparents: Rose (Steve) Cogdill and Ron (Cheri) Gerkin; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Codi (Hugo) Martinez; brother-in-law, Justin Elliott; uncles and aunts: Mark Gerkin, Justin (Sara) Cogdill, Karen (Adam) Campbell, Sherry (Scott) Christianson, Amy (Chuck) Card, Laura Pride, Darin Downs, Jason (Crissy) Downs, Joetta (Richard) Pollert, and Nicole Downs.
Kayla was also preceded in death by her paternal grandmother, Ruth Pride; uncle, David Pride; father-in-law, Brian Elliott; grandfather, Rick Downs; grandfather, Maurice Elliott; and grandmother, Delores Elliott; and uncle, Stacey Downs.
Funeral services for Kayla Ann Elliott will be conducted at 3:30 p.m. on Sunday, January 26, 2025, at Spurgeon Funeral Home, Inc., Brownstown, with Pastor Mitch Patrick officiating. Friends may call from 11:30 a.m. until the time of the service at 3:30 p.m. on Sunday, January 26, 2025, at Spurgeon Funeral Home, Inc.
Interment will follow at Fairview Cemetery, Brownstown.
Memorials may be given to the River Elliott Education Fund through Spurgeon Funeral Home, Inc., Brownstown.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the caring staff at Spurgeon Funeral Home, Inc.
Online memorials and condolences may be given at www.spurgeonfh.com .