With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Gayla Jane Edwards, who left us on Thursday, October 8, 2026, at the age of 53. She was born on July 3, 1973, Gayla touched the lives of many during her time with us.
Funeral service for Gayla will be held at 2:00 p.m., Monday, October 12, 2026 in the chapel of Hixson Brothers, Pineville with Dr. Guy Hedrick and Reverend Lloyd Whitman officiating. Burial will be in Big Creek Cemetery, Pollock.
Pallbearers will be Trey Fiorello, Eric Fiorello, Garret Williams, Rex Garlington, Colby Mitchell, Klark Hataway and Luke Fiorello.
The family requests that visitation be observed at the funeral home Sunday, October 11, 2026 from 6:00-8:00 p.m. and continued Monday from 12:00 p.m. until time of service.
Gayla graduated from Grant High School in 1991 and later earned her degree from Northwestern State University in 1997. For two decades, she dedicated herself to nurturing young minds as a Pre-K and Kindergarten teacher in Rapides Parish, and she made a significant impact through her work at Head Start in Jena. Her students, their parents, grandparents, and fellow teachers cherished Gayla for her warmth, kindness, and the lasting friendships she formed along the way.
An adventurous spirit, Gayla had a variety of interests that brought her joy, including travel, country music concerts, and, of course, shopping. She was a devoted fan of Clint Black, often enjoying the chance to chat with him and his band after performances. Bon Jovi also held a special place in her heart, and she forged friendships with fellow fans through her love of his music. And let’s not forget the Dallas Cowboys—she and Brent shared an unwavering passion for the team.
Although Gayla was a member of Pleasant Hill Baptist Church, she found it hard to attend regularly. She deeply appreciated the care and support she received over the years, especially from Dr. Joan Brunson, whose compassion and dedication made a significant difference in her life.
She is preceded in death by her grandparents, Odel and Mattie Edwards, and Jack and Idell Hataway.
Those left to cherish her memory include her parents, Gary and Loraine Edwards; brother, Brent Edwards (Caroline); two special cousins DeAndria Land and Tarah Marcotte, and other family and friends.