Keyla Michelle Lacen

Keyla Michelle Lacen, 44, of New Haven, CT died peacefully on Tuesday, January 27, 2026 at Yale-New Haven Hospital, York St. Campus after a brief illness, and with her loving family by her side. Keyla was born in Loiza, Puerto Rico on October 6, 1981, a daughter of Arcadio "Cayo" Lacen of Loiza and Gisela Santos of New Haven, and was a lifelong resident of the city.

She was a licensed cosmetology instructor at the Paul Mitchell School of North Haven. She spent many years teaching, mentoring, and inspiring students, sharing not only her skills, but her passion and heart. Her influence lives on through the countless lives she touched, and the confidence she helped build in others.

Keyla was surrounded by love, and will be remembered for her strength, warmth, and the profound impact she had on everyone who knew her. Above all else, Keyla was a devoted mother. Her love was deep, unconditional, and unwavering. She was a source of comfort, guidance, and strength, and her presence will be forever missed by her children and family. Though her passing leaves an immeasurable void, her love, lessons, and spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of those who loved her. She will forever be remembered for her kindness, resilience, and the light she brought into every room.

Keyla is survived by three children Leykiah Zoe Davila, Keylienis Michelle Davila and Pedro Juan Ramos, IV of New Haven, her father who raised her Rodolfo Solís of Polkton, NC, two sisters, Ingrid Lacen of Cambridge, MA and Genesis Martínez of New Haven, and many loving aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. She was predeceased by her brother Johnzue Lacen.

Keyla's family will receive relatives and friends on Monday, February 2nd from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. at the Washington Memorial Funeral Home, 4 Washington Ave., North Haven. A funeral service will take place at the funeral home at 12;00 p.m. Burial will follow in Evergreen Cemetery, New Haven. washingtonmemorialfh.com

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