In Loving Memory of Laila Smith
June 14, 2012 — July 18, 2026
Forever Home: August 19, 2012
Laila Smith was more than a beloved dog—she was the heart of her home, the keeper of routines, the self-appointed neighborhood watch, and a faithful companion whose love filled every corner of the lives she touched.
Born in Columbia, South Carolina, on June 14, 2012, Laila joined her forever family on August 19, 2012. From that day forward, she was deeply loved by her parent, Khana Smith, and her grandmother and devoted caregiver, Sonja Grooms-Smith. Though she had no furry or human siblings, she never needed them—she had an entire family who adored her beyond measure.
Laila had a personality that was impossible to ignore. She proudly claimed an emoji pillow called “Smiley Face” as her own after it was meant to be a gift for her niece. The moment she saw it, she decided it belonged to her, and no one dared argue. It quickly became one of her most treasured possessions.
She loved spending her days sitting on the back steps, carefully watching the world go by. In her younger years, she would happily sprint down the driveway to chase passing visitors, while in her later years she preferred to supervise from afar, offering the occasional bark just to remind everyone that she was still the one in charge.
When it was time to nap, Laila enjoyed stretching out on the cool stone floor of the downstairs laundry room. But each night, she looked forward to curling up in her big, fluffy bed, where she could drift off surrounded by the people she loved.
Like many beloved dogs, Laila believed that if her family was eating, she should be too. While she was happy to sample just about anything, apples and blueberries were among her favorite treats.
If there is one memory that perfectly captures Laila’s personality, it was her nightly bedtime routine. Bedtime wasn’t optional—it happened when Laila decided it was time. Every evening she would plant herself directly in front of her family and stare until someone carried her upstairs. If anyone lingered downstairs, she would bark in protest until the entire family joined her. Only when everyone was exactly where they belonged would she joyfully bounce around on her bed, celebrating another successful bedtime victory. She truly believed the whole family should go to bed together—and somehow, she usually got her way.
Laila also had an incredible love for children. Whenever little ones were nearby, her excitement was impossible to contain. Her family often joked that she believed children were simply tiny, two-legged puppies because they were much closer to her height. She adored every moment she could spend with them.
Some of the sweetest moments belonged to Khana. Whenever Khana cradled Laila like a newborn baby and gently rubbed her belly, Laila would make soft little cooing sounds that sounded remarkably like purring. It became one of those precious family moments that could never be forgotten.
Her curiosity and joyful spirit were on full display the first time she experienced snow. Without hesitation, Laila launched herself right off the steps into what turned out to be a deep snowbank, disappearing completely beneath the surface. When she finally popped back up, the expression on her face—a perfect mix of surprise, confusion, and delight—had everyone laughing. It was one of those unforgettable moments that perfectly reflected her adventurous heart.
Laila filled her family’s days with laughter, comfort, and unconditional love. She had a way of making ordinary moments unforgettable, whether she was watching the neighborhood from the back steps, insisting everyone follow her to bed, or quietly soaking in every bit of affection she could get. She wasn’t just part of the family—she helped define it.
Though the house feels quieter now and her favorite places sit empty, Laila’s love will always remain. Every bedtime, every snowfall, every apple slice, and every smile will carry a piece of her memory.
Run free, sweet Laila. May there always be sunny back steps to watch over, fluffy beds to bounce on, endless apples and blueberries to enjoy, and children to play with wherever you roam. Thank you for filling your family’s lives with laughter, loyalty, and unconditional love. You will forever be cherished, forever missed, and forever the one who reminded everyone that home is wherever family is together. 🐾🤍