Kyleigh Leos was sick her entire life, but she inspired others to live more fully.
The 18-year-old, who suffered from biliary atresia, died on July 9. She had received a transplanted liver in 2010 from Trumbull Officer Michael Gonzalez but her body later rejected it.
She died surrounded by her parents, Trumbull Police Officer Jay Leos and his wife Dawn, other family, friends and staff at Yale-New Haven Hospital. Many of them spoke at Leos' funeral Saturday at the Long Hill United Methodist Church.
Leos required numerous surgeries during her life, but she endured them with patience and humor.
"You endured so many hardships," wrote Dave Giannini, a friend of the family. "I don't know how we will move forward. But you won't have it any other way."
Leos befriended a woman who also received a liver transplant. They started communicating over Facebook and eventually met in person.
"Kyleigh always spoke so matter-of-factly" about her illness. "She taught me a lot," said the woman, who is five years older.
Leos always said she felt "good," never complaining about her illness. "She was a great kiddo and she will truly be missed."
Leos inspired many of the hospital staff who worked with her.
"I loved Kyleigh's spirit and being her nurse," said one speaker.
Another speaker said Kyleigh represented faith, hope and love.
"The most important is love. Love is what brings us together. Instead of giving to her, she gave to us," she said. "She is in our hearts."
Church Pastor Dora Janeway Odarenko said Leos lived a beautiful life despite her illness.
"Her smile was the total sharing of her heart. There was a warmth and a wisdom in Kyleigh's eyes. She understood the value of everyone she saw," Odarenko said.
"Kyleigh's work is now complete. Do not let your hearts be troubled. She is now whole, beautiful in body and soul," the pastor added.
The family urged people to become donors.
Trumbull officials, police officers, firefighters and EMTs were among those packing the small church service. A reception was held in the church social hall afterward.
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