Shyla Rae Downing

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved sister, Shyla.

She passed peacefully on June 11, 2026, with her sister by her bedside, at the age of 86.

Shyla was born in Shelby Montana to Marie Weaver Soderstrom and Donald Soderstrom.

Shyla was preceded in death by her son Michael and husband Scott.

Shyla graduated from North Kansas City high school and worked for Trans World Airlines for twenty years.

In 1983 Scott and Shyla moved to New Orleans, LA and lived there for eleven years. They fell in love with the food and culture and of course Mardi Gras.

Scott's work then took them to Indonesia for a six-month assignment, then on to Houston, TX for seven years.

In 2004 Florida was their final destination as they found the lifestyle of The Villages, much to their liking. Shyla developed a passion for playing golf and Mahjong, she also dearly loved her Siamese cats.

Shyla is survived by her brother Jerry Soderstron and wife Jane of Kansas City, MO and sister Susan Young and husband Bob of Houston, TX, also numerous nephews and niece.

A celebration of life will be held at St. Timothy Catholic Church Lady Lake on Sept. 18, 2026, at 10:00 am.

In lieu of flowers donate to Shyla's favorite cause Alley Cats.