Support Layla So's Family in Their Time of Loss

A profound tragedy has struck our community with the passing of 15-year-old Layla So this past Wednesday afternoon. Layla was a cherished friend to my son, and our family had the honor of knowing and loving her.

Layla was an exceptional young woman—kind, wise beyond her years, and full of love that she shared generously with everyone around her. Her wit and sharp humor could always brighten a room, and her presence was a joy to all who knew her. Her loss is deeply felt, and while she will be sorely missed, her memory will remain with us forever.

For the past two years, Layla battled Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG), a highly aggressive brain tumor. Her journey included countless hospital visits, surgeries, radiation treatments, and other medical procedures. Despite the immense challenges she faced, Layla always thought of others first. This past Mother’s Day, she took the time to deliver personal gifts and heartfelt letters to her friends' mothers, a testament to her generous spirit and enduring strength.

We are asking for your support to assist Layla’s family during this incredibly difficult time. Your donations will help cover funeral and burial expenses, medical bills, and lost wages from taking time off work to care for Layla and support her during her treatments.

Please consider contributing to help this remarkable family through their time of need. You can find Layla’s obituary attached here.

Thank you for your kindness and support.

Layla E. So Obituary

Layla So Obituary

A Life Well Lived

Layla Elizabeth So passed away on August 7, 2024 following a heroic 2 year battle with cancer. Layla was born to parents Rizlene (Lisa) and Solomon So on April 8, 2009. She was known to all her friends, family, and teachers as an artistic, intelligent young lady with wisdom beyond her years. Layla loved spending time with her fur babies, Nico and Cinder. Having quality time with her family and hanging out with her different groups of friends also brought her great joy. She was a gifted artist, a skilled Roblox player, and a master Lego builder. Layla also loved baking and sampling delicious recipes, whether in her family’s kitchen or on camping trips. Those who knew Layla truly understand just how special she really was.

Layla was born and raised in Pearl River, NY. She attended and graduated from Lincoln Avenue Elementary School and Pearl River Middle School. Layla was a rising sophomore at Pearl River High School, where she was a High Honor Roll Student. She was a key member of the Varsity Bowling Team and earned the Most Improved Player Award. Being the well rounded student she was, she also participated in the high school’s Marine Science Club where her love of biology found a natural home.

Layla was funny and kind to anyone she came into contact with. She was an excellent student, natural leader, and wonderful friend. When she wasn't bowling, Layla demonstrated her discipline and focus in karate. She worked diligently at The Academy for Martial Arts and at home to earn her brown belt. She was scheduled for her black belt exam before being scheduled for surgery. Layla also volunteered at the Pearl River library.

Layla’s favorite activity was scouting and she had dreams of achieving the rank of Eagle Scout. She was a founding member of Troop 97G in New City. She earned the rank of Life Scout this year and was actively working on her Eagle Project to benefit the Town of Orangetown. She demonstrated leadership as a Patrol Leader, Assistant Patrol Leader, Troop Guide, and Instructor. She also shared her knowledge of scouting in her role as a Den Chief for Cub Scout Pack 46 in New City. Her hard work led to her being recommended to participated in the BSA National Youth Leadership Training and nomination to the Order of the Arrow (scoutings honor society).

Layla is survived by her loving parents, Rizlene and Solomon, her brother, Benjamin Mehdi So, her maternal grandmother, Rabia Bennis, her maternal grandfather, Driss Idrissi-Katouni, aunts and uncles - David and Khris So, Lois and Roger Roh, Yasmine Idrissi-Katouni, Nawal and Kawtar Idrissi-Katouni; cousins - Ethan, Madeline, Issac, Myles, Menel, and Isanora. Layla is predeceased by her beloved grandparents Abraham and Sarah So.

A viewing will be held on Friday, August 9th from 3-5:30pm at Germond’s Presbyterian Church. A celebration of life service will be held from 5:30-7:00pm, followed by a reception/ repast for family and friends at Jensen Hall (across the road from the church) from 7:00pm-8:30pm. Please join our family in remembering her bright and beautiful life. Please continue to keep us in your thoughts and prayers.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, August 10th at Joseph Sorce Funeral home. The service will be followed by internment at Laurel Grove Cemetery in Tottawa, NJ.