Smith – Lilya Mailelani Forsythe-Smith, age 78, of Jacksonville, Florida passed away peacefully at her daughter's home in Bryceville on April 19, 2024.  She was born on April 7, 1946, in Chicago, Illinois to the late George Eldredge Forsythe and Leah Bernice Monson-Forsythe. In Lilya's younger years, she helped with the family business hosting, catering and entertaining luaus for prominent elites traveling from Hawaii to Mainland U.S. and even to the White House. She studied real estate and enjoyed modeling. Later in life, Lilya's focus was on her family and raising her children. For several years, Lilya worked with the Boy Scouts of America.  She helped with starting new Local Chapters, re-wrote the Boy Scout manual, and organized local events. Lilya loved the holidays, especially Christmas. She expressed her love by cooking her father's special Hawaiian chicken and a ham for Christmas dinner. Lilya adored her father, and it stood as a constant reminder of her memories and the love she had for him. Lilya was a hardworking, caring woman that was always willing to lend a hand to help in any way or simply be a listening ear. She will be missed dearly by all who had the honor of knowing her.  Lilya is preceded in death by her parents; sister, Eulani "Lani" Joyce Forsythe; and daughter, RaeAnna Lea McEachern.

Lilya leaves behind her loving daughters, Dawn Michelle Wrye, Laura Mahealani Rattz; sister, Georgeanne "Lulu" Lulunoelani Forsythe; grandchildren, Amber Grace Bennie, Jade David Earl Matteson, Jayleen Seabrea Parrott, Jason Sean Rattz, Jesse Aaron McEachern, Breanna Lea McEachern; great grandchildren, Damen Reese Sheffield, Dakoda Blaze Sheffield, Dalilah Star Sheffield; nephews, Mel Warren Funk, Daryl Gordon Funk; and niece, Michele Denise Kohl.

A Memorial Service for Lilya will be held on Friday, May 3, 2024, from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. at Nassau Funeral Home.  The arrangements are under the care and direction of Nassau Funeral Home, 541720 US-1, Callahan, Florida 32011. 904-879-1770. Visit www.nassaufh.com to sign the family's guest book.