Courtney Jean Gilyard, born September 2, 1989, in Cincinnati, Ohio, passed away at the age of 35. She was a daughter, a sister, a mother, a cousin, and a friend—and the heartbeat of every room she walked into. Courtney wasn't just loved, she was adored. To know her was to know joy, laughter, and loyalty at its loudest, brightest, and most genuine.

She was the beloved daughter of Antonia Gilyard and Kenneth Gilyard Sr.—their one and only girl, their shining light, and the laughter that echoed through their lives. She was also the fiercely devoted mother of her pride and joy, LaRay "LJ" Rainey Jr., whom she shared with LaRay Rainey. LJ was her everything, and she made sure the world knew it. She poured all her love, strength, and energy into being a phenomenal mother, and she made sure he never went without her warmth or her protection.

Courtney was a proud product of Cincinnati, where she made her mark early. She graduated first in her class from Shroder High School in 2007 and left with a legendary moment—she ended her valedictorian speech with "Now walk it out"—because only Courtney could turn a graduation into a moment that nobody would ever forget.

To her brothers, Kenneth "Juice" Gilyard Jr. and Jason Gilyard, she was more than a sister—she was their biggest cheerleader and comic relief.

She was a proud and loving aunt to her many nieces and nephews, all of whom she adored and spoiled every chance she got. Courtney's relationship with them was filled with joy, laughter, and love—she showed up for them at every moment, big or small. She especially shared a close bond with her niece Kamayah Sipling-Gilyard, who was like a daughter to her in every way—their connection was deep, full of love, and truly unbreakable.

She leaves behind her beloved nieces and nephews: Kyland Sipling, Ka'moni Smith, Kenneth Gilyard III, Kayden Gilyard, Hayden Gilyard, and Jayla Gilyard.

She was also a granddaughter to Joyce Walker, whom she loved dearly. She was preceded in death by her grandfather, Anthony Walker Sr., whose passing just a few months earlier left a hole in the family that Courtney felt deeply. Courtney also leaves behind a village of aunties, uncles, cousins, and best friends who were more like siblings—her chosen family—who will feel her absence every single day. If Courtney loved you, you felt it. And if you were family, you knew she had your back no matter what.

Among those who loved her most were her lifelong sisters in spirit—the Fab 6. What started as friendship became sisterhood, rooted in years of memories, laughter, and unconditional love. Courtney was the kind of friend who showed up, even when life was heavy on her shoulders. She was smart, loyal, generous, and fiercely protective of the people she loved. She gave comfort without needing to be asked, celebrated her friends' wins like they were her own, and never let anyone feel alone.

She was the bartender of the family, the self-declared party starter, and the reason everyone was dancing at every get-together. If she wasn't there, it didn't feel right. "Where's Courtney?" was always the question, because the vibe didn't hit the same without her. She was always dancing, always laughing, always calling somebody out in the funniest way, and always looking flawless while doing it.

Courtney had confidence out of this world. She was bold, direct, and never held her tongue. If she said it, she meant it—and she was likely going to say it in a way that had the whole room hollering. "I said what I said" wasn't just a phrase—it was her lifestyle.

She loved the Cincinnati Bengals and was a die-hard fan—especially when it came to tailgating. Game day wasn't just a game; it was an experience, and Courtney made it feel like a festival. She brought energy everywhere she went, and people were drawn to her—whether they'd known her forever or just met her that day.

Courtney believed in Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior, and her faith was a source of strength, joy, and grounding throughout her life. She carried her light with grace, and her love for God was reflected in how deeply she loved her family, her friends, and the life she was given.

Courtney lived out loud.

Visitation is from 9:30 am until 11:00 am, on  Saturday, August 9, 2025, at the Greater St. John AME Zion Church, 772 Whittier Street, Cincinnati  (45229).   The funeral service will immediately follow the visitation beginning at 11:00 am. Friends and family will gather to share memories, find solace in one another's company, and honor the legacy she leaves behind.

Interment will follow at Spring Grove Cemetery, 4521 Spring Grove Avenue, Cincinnati, Ohio 45232.

To share a memory of   Courtney or leave a special message for the  Gilyard family, please click the "Tribute Wall" tab above and to the right, enter the information, and click "Save Post."

Walker Funeral Home and Crematory  is caring for the Gilyard family during this difficult time.  Please call 513.251.6200 or visit www.HerbWalker.com for additional information.