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Leyla Beban Obituary
Memories and Condolences
for Leyla Beban
38 Entries
Evelyn Lawrence
November 11, 2013
Dear Leyla,
I was in my English class and there was a flyer for a writing contest called blue4beban. I copied down the website, and I've just searched for it to see what it was like. It mentioned your first name, which rang a bell for me, and I poked around the website, discovering your photo. I first assumed you were the last winner of the contest, or that you'd organized it, but I soon found out that you had gone in 2012.
An overwhelming shock came over me, as I remembered you vividly then. The girl who shared a bunk with me at YMCA camp Jones Gulch, the girl in my cabin, right there, there with me that whole week. I knew her.
I didn't know you as personally as others may have, but I remember how you would read books during our free time. I remember how you were the only one who could tackle the "Mission Impossible" climbing wall, and I looked up to you.
I cannot believe how suddenly things can happen. I'd like to just say how much I miss you. We only knew each other for a short week at camp, but I'll remember you forever.
I pray for all those who love and miss you.
Rest peacefully in heaven.
Love,
Evelyn L.
December 27, 2012
To The Beban Family:
I found out about Leyla through the Nueva newsletter through Facebook.
I'm so sorry for your family's loss. And I have to tell you, I read Leyla's Nueva Graduation presentation online--and her incredible expressionism in her essay moved me beyond words.
In her short time, she has left an eternal impression upon the lives of so many people, yours-truly included.
I grieve with you in loss; but, at the same time, I'll forever marvel at your daughter's eternal gift she left upon everybody who has now had the joy of learning about the beauty of everything around us, thanks to Leyla.
May you please find peace in that assurance, within time.
Sincerely,
Mr. Alexei Cogan
Leyla Beban's Christmas Memorial
M Kelly Rogers
December 24, 2012
I want to express my heartfelt sympathy to the Beban family and to all those who knew her and miss her now. I'd heard of the tragic news that day, in late November. I make that right turn from Jefferson, onto Avenida de las Pulgas on my bicycle and in my car often and this senseless tragedy has continued to weigh upon my mind when I pass by there, even though I never knew Leyla. I drove by this afternoon on my way to do some last minute shopping. I decided to turn around and stop at Leyla's memorial for a moment. My girlfriend and I had participated in a live Nativity scene a few nights ago and she had been dressed as an angel that night. I still had her white "halo" in the car. I hadn't pre-planned anything but it just occurred to me to place the little halo on the streetlamp memorial for Leyla. As a local resident and a veteran long distance bicyclist and bicycle advocate, I wish you and all who knew her some manner of peace this Christmas Eve and in the coming New Year.
Julie
December 18, 2012
Leyla,
A friend. You knew my sister better than I. You stood up or me. You were there, when others worent, although you didn't know me as we'll as get.
A poem I wrote for Leyla
You are a shining light, a fallen star.
I can reach out and touch.
But when I do , I slip
I slide down a path
One I know will not continue
Back to the beginning.
But I know I don't care.
I got to know you.
A friend to me
A sister to my sister
You. Are.
Remembered.
Forever
And
Always
<3 you Leyla
Pete Dufault & Family
December 16, 2012
To the Beban family, I am so very sorry for your loss, your family have been in my thoughts and prayers. Marc, it has been such a long time since we knew each other at Central middle school. When I heard of the accident it broke my heart, when I found out that Leyla was your daughter it felt worse. My wish for you and your family is that time and wonderful memories will help to ease the pain of your terrible loss. Please know that Leyla and your family will always be in my thoughts and prayers.
Loreen R
December 13, 2012
Dear Leyla,
I remember you. I'm sure you'd remember me too. You were in my advisory, and that was how I talked to you. Occasionally, I would say something, and immediately after think "Oh my god, I sound so much like Leyla!" Unfortunately, I have already climbed down as far as the deep abyss of my memory will permit, and I can't remember what your voice sounds like anymore.
However, I do remember other things. I remember your big, soft blue eyes, always intelligent, focused, and deep in thought. Your nose was always in a book, unless you were talking or in class. Everyone admired your happy, peaceful, and calm demeanor. You didn't always have much to say, but when you did, it was never anything negative. No matter how many times I saw you, I never caught you looking sad or depressed.
I never knew that the last time I saw you would be the last time I would ever see you, and that scared me. Will every goodbye be like this? You've taught me lessons, to cherish every moment of my waking lifetime and to keep the ones I love close. I hope you know how much you mean to us. I don't think it matters how much we knew you or how close to you we were, we'll love and miss you all the same. There are memories in the back of my head, some only individual to me. I'll keep them with me forever, as they are things unique and special that only I can say I have.
You lived a beautiful life; you were always so happy, friendly, and congenial. Not a soul at this school could say that you were mean to them. You knew three languages, an amazing accomplishment. Everyone who knew you caught a ray of your sunshine: you were contagious! I can't believe our days in advisory together were so long ago.
Life is a fragile thing: we take it for granted, and probably think little about it. But we do not realize that it can be snatched away from us so easily. Why do we think so much of death when we should be celebrating life? I'm sure you would want us to live life to the fullest, while we can. You did a lot in your life: you were passionate about animals, and often volunteered to help them. You explored your passions, which was a wonderful thing. I'll regret all the times that I took something for granted, or complained, or put something off. Like you, I'll remember to go out there! Do wonderful things! We'll be taken by the night sky before we know it, darkness seizing.
The sun's beginning to set, and the skies grow darker and darker each passing second, ready to become a new day. Now, as this day passes on and grows into a new one, I'll remember to keep you with me, and in my head, every step I take in this precious life I'm living. There'll be a voice in my head, always guiding me to do what's right and what's best. I just know it. And something I also know? I'll always think of you when I pick up a book.
Carmen Girona
December 3, 2012
Dear Leyla,
I'd never thought something this terrible would happen when I first met you September 7th, 2010. I could only share my life with you for 4 months, but our friendship will never die. I'll bear you in my heart forever.
Love,
Your Spanish friend, Carmen
Eleanor R
December 1, 2012
Dear Beban family,
My thoughts go out to you <3
Eleanor R
December 1, 2012
I went to Nueva with Leyla. My best memory of her was on one of our camping trips I didn't know anyone very well so she let me sleep in her tent. She was always such an amazing presence at the school and everyone in younger grades looked up to her. Leyla, you will be missed.
Grace
November 30, 2012
Dear Beban Family,
I knew Leyla when she was about 7, as well as Kenna, attending Camp Kaboom. I was one of the leaders. She was a smart girl and very sweet. I can't put into words how distraught I am and can't even imagine how you all must be feeling. I would like to pass on some words of condolence. Though the memory of Leyla will never fade, just know the pain that you feel will heal in time. Be strong. Leyla is in a good place and will be waiting patiently to be one day reunited with those that she loves.
November 30, 2012
Leyla, I never knew you, and most likely you didn't know me. I'm a senior at WHS and I just want you to know that you are beautiful. I have never met you, but I know that you are a beautiful person. I wish that I could have known you, but more than that, I can't even begin to understand how such an accident could have happened. You are so strong. For as long as I am driving, I am making it a promise to drive safely with you in mind, although I understand that this was completely an accident. For as long as I live, I will never forget you. I hope that you find your peace
Jazmin
November 29, 2012
There will be an empty chair in our classes,but it will be filled with loving memories,you are in our memory,thoughts,and hearts.You are everyones gaurdian angel.Our God's messenger.
Jazmin
November 29, 2012
I miss you Leyla but all I know is that you're in a better place.Everyone at woodside will miss you.Forever Young,Forever Loved.Because of you I stay.I miss seeing you in the mornings putting your bike away.Whenever i enter class i feel like something is missing.you brought smiles to everyone.People down here will always remember you throughout the years as a smart,kind,curious,beautiful girl.I cry for you,Leyla.
November 29, 2012
Dear Beban Family,
I am so very sorry for your loss and my heart mourns for you all. I have lost many and I feel very deeply for your pain. My sister went to Woodside and passed when I was 18 and she was 20. I can't tell you that things get better because right now is what matters and it hurts more than words can describe. But I want you to know that in time...the pain will be tolerable and that Leyla will always be with you. Again. I am so very sorry for your loss. My most sincere condolences go to you and you are supported tremendously by this community. Love to you.
Oscar Guzman
November 29, 2012
Dear Leyla,
I never got to know you even though we were both freshman I wish I gotten the chance to meet you Rest in peace.
Dan Siehl
November 29, 2012
Dear Jessica, Marc, Kenna,
I am sure that words utterly fail to consol you in this time of overwhelming grief. What a tragic loss for you and the world. From what I have heard, Leyla was a rare gem; sweet, beautiful, talented, yet humble and loved by many. I can only assure you that my thoughts and prayers are with you every hour.
November 29, 2012
Dear Jessica, Marc and Kenna,
We mourn with you and feel so deeply for your tremendous loss. Our thoughts are with you.
Maja, Benz, Karl & Christina
November 29, 2012
Dearest Leyla,
I will always remember you as a beautiful, talented, smart and kind girl, who made me smile at each visit. For the past 10 years I had watched you grow into a lovely young lady. My heartfelt condolences to the family.
Naveen Mahmood
Amy Gouldthread
November 29, 2012
RIP Leyla! I did not know you but grew up with your dad and aunties! My heart goes out to all of the Beban's. Peace & Love to you all
November 29, 2012
God bless you sweet heart......
T. McInerney
November 28, 2012
I wish there is something I could say or do to ease the pain you are experiencing as you mourn the tragic loss of your beloved daughter. My son is in Leyla's enriched Geometry class at WHS and my husband and son would pass her on Alameda often as she rode her bike to school. I drive by the spot where you lost your angel every day and I will always remember her and think of you and how much you miss her. My deepest condolences.
Nadine Lahey
November 28, 2012
Our hearts and prayers are with the Beban family.
Stephanie Freel
November 28, 2012
R.I.P. Sweet Leyla. I am so deeply sorry for your loss.
Gloria
November 28, 2012
Sending our love and our deepest sympathy, know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. From Dr. Choy's office.
Denise Anagnostou
November 28, 2012
My son goes to Woodside High School and saw Leyla every morning as she entered the campus on her bike. Words can not express this tragic loss. Our prayers go out to Leyla's family and the family of the driver. The entire community is mourning. May this beautiful girl always be remembered.
Jean Haught EarleyWoodstock
November 28, 2012
God be with you. I grew up in Redwood, news travels. God has his arms around her
Shirley Gardner-Oberman
November 27, 2012
This is an heartbreaking tragedy. I don't know your family, but my heart aches for you all during this time of extreme sadness. Blessings and deepest condolences to you all. I'm so sorry for your loss.
krista
November 27, 2012
There are no words for this deep sadness
Kim Tessa Hallie
November 27, 2012
You will always be with us. We love you Leyla.
Heather Oda
November 27, 2012
To Jan and her family, my condolences go out to you. She's an angel in heaven watching over. God Bless
Heather Miksch
November 27, 2012
Dear Marc-- my deepest, sincerest sympathies. Your whole Velocity11 family remembers Leyla with such fondness--we feel like we watched her grown up from a kid to a lovely young lady. My heart goes out to you and your family during this time.
DeeDee Frisella Bunde
November 27, 2012
For you Leyla..
DeeDee Frisella Bunde
November 27, 2012
Much too soon...my heart goes out to you Jan & all of the Beban family..Leyla is soaring high now...
November 27, 2012
I don't know Leyla or you, her family, but my heart aches for you right now. As a parent of three, ages 12, 16 and 19, I cannot fathom losing a child for any reason, especially a tragic accident. I will keep you in my prayers.
tina canepa
November 27, 2012
My heart is just breaking for the family of Leyla. Such a hugh loss. My sympathy and prayers are with you all and may the angels take this poor girl under their wings. God love you Leyla and take good care of you. With Sadness, Tina Canepa
Tajul "TJ" Majumder
November 27, 2012
My deepest condolences. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family through this heartbreaking time. There's nothing I can say that will ease your pain but I just wanted you to know I am thinking of you.
Debbie Zuniga
November 27, 2012
My heart, thoughts and prayers are with you Mary Jo and your family at such a difficult time. God grant all of you strength and comfort. All my love and hugs to all of you.
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