Obituary of Alayna Race

Alayna Ann Race, "Ace" or lovingly called "Beanie" by her family, of Cortland, NY passed unexpectedly on Saturday, July 26, 2025 at just 16 years old. Alayna was born on September 20, 2008 to Paula Edge and Robert Race in Syracuse, NY. Ace attended Cortland Junior Senior High School where she succeeded at anything she put her mind to and was very eager to start furthering her education in the medical field to help others. Alayna found passion in working with children and proved that daily in her employment at the local daycare center. Alayna was a very unique and spunky young lady. She loved to go exploring and being out in nature. Alayna continuously found the beauty in all things outdoors and was adamant to find the perfect aesthetically pleasing photos to document her adventures, especially during the Fall months and Halloween time. Alayna enjoyed many hobbies, some of these included puzzles with family, creating artwork, and knitting. Alayna was a very empathetic person who was always willing to help others, even when she was going through her own struggles. She was always trying to make those around her smile and laugh by doing silly things, like making funny faces. Beanie cherished spending time with her family and she was a phenomenal Aunt to her Nephews. Alayna had a giant heart and immense love for not only those that were lucky enough to know her, but all types of animals too. She was the best pet Mommy to her dogs; Nala and Meeko, Cats; Loralie, Adoria, Binx and Remi, and her Bearded Dragon; Zazu. All of whom will miss her terribly. Alayna was predeceased by her Grandpa; Warner D. Schapley Sr. of DeWitt, NY. Her Grandma; Patricia A. Schapley of Clay, NY. Her Dad; Robert Race of Danby, NY, As well as her Niece; Olivia Wren Walters of Liverpool, NY. Alayna is survived by her Mom, Paula Edge of Cortland NY. Her Sisters; Bryana LaFlair of Baldwinsville, NY, Kaylie (Kristopher) Walters of Liverpool, NY, Valery LaFlair of Cortland, NY, Melany LaFlair of Cortland, NY, and Theresa Race of Hannibal, NY. Her Brothers; Bobby Race of Syracuse, NY, Matthew (Kassy) Race of Summerville, SC, and Steven (Arianna) Race of Charleston, SC. Her Nephews; John Fitzgerald, Logan Walters, Zaiver Falso, Nicholas Walters and Zayden Falso. Along with many more loving Aunts, Uncles, Cousins and Friends. A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, August 9, 2025 from 10am - 1pm, followed by a small service at Wright-Beard Funeral Home and all are invited to attend.