Alexandria, La. (UrbanCast: 7/16/2026) – Funeral services have been announced for A’Layna Laiken Kali Duruisseau, a 22-year-old Alexandria woman remembered for her service, determination, and the lasting impact she made on those around her.
The service will begin at 11 a.m. Tuesday, July 21, at St. Matthew’s Baptist Church, located at 5605 Old Boyce Road in Boyce.
Visitation will begin at 10 a.m. at the church and continue until the service starts.
Burial will follow at Immaculate Conception Cemetery of Lebeau, located at 103 Lebeau Church Road in Washington.
A’Layna passed away on Wednesday, July 8, 2026.
She served in the Louisiana Air National Guard while pursuing her passion for aviation. UrbanCast was honored to share one of her proudest milestones when she completed her first solo cross-country flight from Alexandria to Jackson, Mississippi.
Since news of her passing, hundreds of friends, relatives, coworkers, fellow Airmen, former teammates, and community members have shared memories of the young woman many affectionately knew as “Tootie” or “Layna Bug.”
Kind, Determined, Compassionate
They described her as kind, determined, compassionate, and full of life. Many recalled her contagious smile, generous spirit, and ability to encourage others.
One community member remembered A’Layna’s excitement after her first solo flight. Another, a Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office training coordinator, shared that A’Layna was training as a 911 call taker and described her as a light whose influence will continue to shine.
Others remembered her participation in archery, swimming, entrepreneurship, community events, and her willingness to help wherever she was needed.
A relative reflected on seeing A’Layna enjoying time with family during their 2026 reunion, saying she was full of life only days before her passing.
The overwhelming response from the community reflects a young woman whose influence reached far beyond her years. Many who never met A’Layna said the stories shared by those who knew her spoke volumes about the life she lived.
Survived By
A’Layna is survived by her father, Deion Duruisseau; her sisters, Bella Duruisseau, Dea Duruisseau (Ralph), and Ja’Toi Duruisseau; her maternal grandparents, Jonny and Larry Augustine; and her paternal grandmother, Ave Marie Duruisseau.
She was preceded in death by her mother, LaShawn Augustine-Duruisseau, and her paternal grandfather, Raleigh Duruisseau.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Escude Funeral Home in Mansura.
UrbanCast extends its heartfelt condolences to A’Layna’s family, friends, fellow service members, and everyone mourning her loss. Her service, determination, and example will continue to inspire those whose lives she touched.
Source: Escude Funeral Home, UrbanCast Commenters
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