Cayla Lynn Autry, age 34

It is with great sadness that I announce that on Monday, October 10, 2022, Cayla Lynn Autry, loving daughter, sister, and mother of four, departed this life after a hard – and absolutely inspirational – battle with cancer.

Cayla was born into this world on Sunday, March 20, 1988 to parents Angie Rhoads and Lat Lester Autry III in Forrest City, Arkansas. She lived her early years in Forrest City before moving to Jacksonville, Arkansas, then to Alaska, and eventually back to Jacksonville where she would put down her roots.

Cayla loved to dance. She loved to come up with her own routines and choreography. She gave little choice to family members, as she would perform her routines for them to watch… for the 5^th time in a row. Her finesse and leadership ability translated well to the ball field. She was always the ace pitcher on whatever ball team that was lucky enough to have her. Her competitive nature made her a hazard to anyone who was willing to risk a broken hand just to warm up with her. She would throw the ball with a distinctive arm-whip and wrist-flip that made an audible snap when it hit the glove.

Cayla’s heart was always so big. She could sympathize with strangers – often seeming to have the curse of feeling the pain that others were experiencing. Her loyalty was certainly an attribute that shined the brightest. Her trust was hard to earn, but having it was invaluable.

Cayla is survived by four beautiful daughters: Cayden Autry, Riley Grace Autry, Henley King, and Haven King; Mother, Angie Rhoads; Father, Lat “Buddy” Autry; brothers, Chris and Jake Autry; Grandmother, Donna Faye Wallace; and many cousins, nieces, and a nephew.

Cayla is preceded in death by her Great-Grandmother, Claudine Stewart, and Aunt, Tammy Mitchell.

Visitation to celebrate Cayla’s life will be held on Monday, October 17, 2022 from 9:30-10:30am at A Natural State Funeral Service, located at 2620 W Main St in Jacksonville, Arkansas, followed by a graveside service at 11:00am at Serenity Gardens Cemetery located at 6512 T.P. White Drive, also in Jacksonville, Arkansas, which will be led by Pastor Mark Philips of That.Church in Sherwood, Arkansas. The public is welcome to attend both services.

Arrangements by A Natural State Funeral Service 2620 West Main Street, Jacksonville, Arkansas 72076. 501-982-3400.