Kyana Monique Beard

Kyana Monique Beard was born on October 1, 1984, to Nathaniel Beard, Jr. who preceded her in death and her mother, Elaine Kelley in her hometown of Chicago, Illinois. From the very beginning, Kyana was a beautiful presence whose life would leave an unforgettable impression on everyone blessed to know and love her.

Kyana was truly larger than life, with a heart just as big as her personality. Her warmth, humor, and infectious spirit endeared her to so many. She had a special way of making people laugh, bringing joy into a room, and reminding those around her just how much they were loved. Kyana never missed an opportunity to express her love and appreciation for her family and friends.

Family meant everything to Kyana. She treasured the relationships she shared with her loved ones and held those bonds close to her heart. Whether through laughter, conversation, spending time together, or simply being present, Kyana created memories that her family and friends will carry with them forever.

Kyana dedicated 20 years of service to Advocate Health, where she built a diverse and accomplished career. Her experience spanned several areas, including Customer Service, Workforce Management, Human Resources and Information Technology, demonstrating her versatility and willingness to continually learn and grow. In her most recent role, Kyana served as an IT Help Desk Analyst, a position that complemented her genuine love for computers and technology.

Kyana’s spiritual journey began at One Lord One Faith Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of her grandfather, the late Pastor Emeritus Lesley Kelley, Sr. She later continued her spiritual growth under the leadership of her uncle, Pastor Emeritus Joseph B. Kelley, Sr., until his retirement. Kyana remained a faithful member under the leadership of Bishop Andre Henderson until her transition.

Her faith was an important part of who she was. Kyana found strength, comfort, and purpose in her relationship with God. She lived with compassion, love, and a heart for servanthood, allowing her faith to be reflected in the way she cared for others.

Kyana also knew how to enjoy life. She found happiness in life’s simple pleasures, especially spending time with her sister and cousins. She enjoyed one of her favorite hobbies, photography. Behind the camera, she had the ability to capture special moments and preserve memories, something that now holds an even deeper meaning for those she leaves behind. Kyana embraced life, laughter, family, friendship, and the moments that mattered most.

Kyana leaves to cherish her precious memory her loving mother, Elaine Kelley; her beloved sister, Brianna, whom she affectionately called “Lobster”; her aunts and uncles; and her nephew, Marcus and a host of cousins, extended family members, and friends. She also leaves her beloved godchildren, Mari, Rhylie, Mason, and Avery (“Little Stinkas”) and KJ, each of whom held a special place in her heart. She also leaves to cherish, her godmother, Rosalind Miller-Hampton.

Among those who will deeply cherish her friendship and the memories they shared are her closest friends, Dee Dee, Dominique, Vonte (Broster), Tiffany, Martine, Sheree, Addie and her Beh Frwend, Keisha.” Although Kyana is no longer physically with us, the love she gave, the laughter she shared, the photographs she captured, and the memories she created will continue to tell the story of a life that mattered.

Her presence will be missed. Her laughter will be remembered. Her love will remain.

And her legacy will live on through every life she touched.

Rest peacefully, Kyana. You were deeply loved, you will be forever remembered, and you will never be forgotten.