Latonya Latreis "Lala" Gayles

Latonya L. Gayles (Lala), 48, of Newark, NJ departed from us peacefully on June 2, 2025 at University Hospital. Lala was a beloved mother, grandmother, daughter, and sister and she will always be remembered as such.
Born on July 30, 1976 in Irvington, NJ to Hilda and George Smallwood, Lala received her education from Newark Public School system and received a trade in Construction and Auto Body Tech. She loved working in male dominated fields, always encouraging her daughters to pick up trades where men worked because she believed women were just as strong. Lala enjoyed family gatherings, dancing, and music. You could catch her busting a move at any time. She was known for speaking her mind and handling business, PERIOD!
Lala leaves to cherish her memory: her children, Quafaishia, Keyannah, Mecca, Lashonnah Gayles, Nylikah and Malik Norman Jr.; her grandchildren, Jacquay Hodges-Gayles, Jaelanie Hodges, Milan, Samorie, U'mirah, Umir Daves, Layla, Harmony, Lahzon Rascoe Jr., and Ace Norman; her mother, Hilda Smallwood; siblings, Kanishia Gayles, George and Doria Arrington; her grandfather, Thomas Smallwood (Butch); nieces, Shanequa and Briana Steen; nephews; Naeem and Jerome Gayles, Olajawon Little; and a host of other family and friends. She is preceded in death by her dad, George Smallwood, and brother, Thomas S. Gayles (Peanut).
This Online Memorial has been created to commemorate the life of Latonya Latreis Gayles. Leave a message on the Tribute Wall to share your favorite memories and offer words of sympathy and comfort.