Leila Veronica Love

In celebration of the life of Leila Veronica Love, who traversed her way into eternity on June 8, 2024, at the age of 66. Leila was a free spirited fearless explorer, known for her love of music, dance, and travel adventures. She brought joy to everyone she met with her boundless creativity. Leila Love, beloved sister, aunt, cousin, and friend, was a caring delightful woman. She was cherished by her family and friends.

Leila was born to Cassandra and James McKenzie on February 1,1958 in the District of Kensington, Portland, Jamaica, where she spent her early life until age 11. She along with her parents and younger siblings emigrated to New York from Jamaica in 1969. She attended high school in New York, and moved to Texas upon graduating to attend the University of Texas in Arlington where she earned a bachelor’s degree. Leila enjoyed advancing her education, was a continuous learner and was always pursuing new ways to advance her knowledge. Leila decided very early on to make Dallas, Texas her home, when she finally graduated with a degree in Spanish, she found work in Dallas where she was employed for many years as a corporate executive.

Leila was passionate about traveling the world and tremendously enjoyed many adventures cruising and solo trips to many exotic locales around the globe. She enjoyed swimming and would go snorkeling every chance she got. Leila had the gift of gab and the ability to make friends with just about everyone she met. She had a very active imagination and could craft a good story. Leila fulfilled her dream of becoming an author in 2011 when she published her first novel “Twitch Twitch.” She loved reggae and gospel music, at any celebration she could be found on the dance floor dancing away.

Leila leaves behind sisters Linda McKenzie and Laverne McKenzie, brother Derrick McKenzie and wife Mary. Nieces: Charlotte (Terry), Novelette, Donnette, Bridgette, Rasheda (Doron), Chanda, and Andrea. Nephews: Oneil (Annakay), Garfield, Richard, Christopher, James and Dustin. Grandnephews and Grandnieces: Johnathan, Sasha, Cameyia, Nikkia, Ashawn, Savion, Jordan, Oneil, Jr., Kayla, Kymani, Aliya, Zanaiyah, Nikayla, Kamari, Garfield Jr., Bryson, Lillian, Orianna, Othaniel, Violet, Mackenzye, Omir, Kayleb, Adrie, Dallas, and Tatum. She is further survived by a host of beloved cousins and other relatives and loving friends.

Leila is preceded in death by her parents James and Cassandra McKenzie, sisters Lizzy, Alethea, Beverly, and brother George.

Leila’s vibrant spirit lives on in the hearts of her many friends and family, she will be truly missed.