Obituary of Layla Sue Shell-Rushing
Layla Sue Shell-Rushing, 45, formerly from Elizabethtown IL, entered the Kingdom of Heaven on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, surrounded by the people she loved the most. She was born on August 5, 1980, and graduated from Hardin County High School.
She lived a short, but meaningful life. She was a bright light to those who knew and loved her.
Layla was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer shortly before God called her home. She was a true warrior. She fought hard and didn’t have to suffer a long battle. She knew God had plans for her and her faith was very strong.
Layla had a love for country sunsets and giving. She would give until her heart gave out. She spent a lot of days picking wildflowers to make bouquets. She thought they were beautiful. She was such a free spirit who will truly be missed.
Layla cherished her children and grandchildren more than anything in this world. She had three beautiful granddaughters, Kayzleigh Shell, Ke’Ava Holmes, Kaveah Holmes, and a grandson Aiden Holmes, all who were her saving grace and reason for living.
She also had a cherished best friend, Stacy Moore, who was her guiding light in the dark. Layla held her family and friends very close to her heart.
Layla is survived by her husband, Gary Rushing Jr; her three children, Hannah Heinz (Ke’Veont Holmes), Ashleigh Shell (Colten Hill), and Drayke Shell; her mother, Pamela Masten; her daddy, Kevin Masten; and her mother-in-law Debbie Shell. She is also survived by her twin brother, Derek (Tracy) Heinz; brother, Jacob Heinz; and sisters, Joy Heinz, Kelly (Heath) Hobbs, and sisters-in-law, Kendra and Kara Shell; She also left behind four grandchildren who were her life’s purpose; several nieces and nephews, Weston, August, Rayne, William, Keely, Kaden, and Skylar; her best friend, Stacy Moore; and her beloved cat, King Kitty.
Layla was preceded in death by her father, Jim Heinz; grandparents, Mabel Edwards, Wayne Harper, and Russ and Sue Masten; the love of her life, Lance Shell; her “brother” Big Joe, and cherished friends Arrikka Bowling and Tabitha Banks.
Aly Funeral Home is handling arrangements. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, July 11, 2026, from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. at Aly Funeral Home in Eddyville, IL. Graveside services will be private.
Published in the July 9, 2026 Hardin County Independent.
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