Lela Carol Battle was born on March 26, 1949, in Elizabeth, Louisiana, to Samuel Lee Traylor Sr. and Gloria Dean Philson.

Lovingly reared by her grandparents, John and Johnnie Philson. She was a bright, determined young woman who received her education in the Elizabeth, Louisiana Independent School System. From an early age, Lela professed her faith in Christ, a conviction that guided her throughout her life.

A faithful member of New Leaf Missionary Baptist Church, Lela served diligently as Outreach Ministry President until her health declined. Her unwavering devotion to her faith and her church community was a cornerstone of her life.

Lela was also a dedicated professional, working as an Administrative Assistant at Baylor Hospital in Dallas, Texas, until her retirement. Her work ethic, kindness, and professionalism left a lasting impression on all who knew her.

Lela departed from this life on August 6, 2025. Above all, Lela was a loving mother and grandmother who cherished her family deeply. She valued every moment spent with her loved ones and was known for her strong will, resilience, and steadfast faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. Her love for her children and grandchildren was her greatest joy.

She was preceded in death by her father, Samuel Lee Traylor Sr.; her mother, Gloria Dean Lee; her grandparents, John and Johnnie Philson; sisters, Barbara Brown and Barbara Davis; and brothers, Michael Philson and Samuel Lee Traylor Jr.

Lela leaves to cherish her memory: daughter, Angela James (Don); son, Kenneth Traylor (Shaketa); sisters, Dorothy Thomas and Cassandra Daniels; brothers, Eddie Philson (Bessie), Danny Philson (Linda), Henry Lee (Georgia), and Clyde Lee; her grandchildren, Andrea Marks, Donisha James, Victoria Traylor, and Nicholas Traylor; along with a host of beloved family members and friends, including her special cousin John "Buster" Thompson and her dear aunt Alice Adam and special friends Ms. Stella King (best friend) and Twallar Jackson (Goddaughter).

Though we grieve her loss, we also celebrate the remarkable life she lived — a life rooted in faith, family, and perseverance. Lela's spirit will forever inspire us, and her memory will remain in our hearts forever.