Kaliana Esme Langston
February 3, 2026 – May 23, 2026
“Beautiful Vessel from God”
Kaliana Esme Langston, a beautiful vessel from God, went home to be with the Lord on May 23, 2026, in the arms of her mother at their home. Though her time on earth was brief, spanning just 109 precious days, her life touched countless hearts and left an everlasting impact on all who knew her.
Born on February 3, 2026, at Akron Summa Hospital, Kaliana was the cherished daughter of Christian and Madison (Light) Langston. Before she was born, Kaliana was diagnosed with Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS), a rare and serious congenital heart defect. Though her life lasted only 109 days, she spent 51 of those days courageously fighting in the hospital. Along the way, Kaliana underwent the Norwood procedure and faced challenges that most adults could never imagine. Yet through it all, she displayed remarkable strength, courage, and resilience that inspired everyone who followed her journey.
After spending 51 days in the hospital, Kaliana was blessed to spend precious time at home surrounded by the love of her family. Knowing the challenges she faced with her little heart, every day with Kaliana was a blessing, and every moment spent at home with her became a treasured gift her family will forever cherish.
Throughout her journey, Kaliana touched countless lives, bringing together people from across communities in prayer, faith, hope, and support. Despite the challenges she faced, her life was filled with love. She brought joy to those around her and served as a reminder of God’s faithfulness, even in life’s most difficult moments.
Her bright eyes, sweet smile, and fighting spirit captured the hearts of everyone who met her or followed her journey through her parents’ posts.
Kaliana was the beloved little sister of Kion and Kiara Langston, who loved her dearly and will forever cherish the memories they shared with her.
She is survived by her grandparents, Deena (RJ) Dye, Maci Langston, and Steve (Deb) Light.
She is also survived by her aunts and uncles: Destiny (Andrew) Hunt, Faith (William) Buckley, Emmanuel (Hallie Schroeder) Langston, Donovan Mills, Elijah Stewart, Rhyan (Chavon Stillwell) Light, Alexandria Dye, and Celsey Dye.
Kaliana leaves behind her cousins, EJ Jeffrey-Light and Luca Langston; her great-grandparents Leslie Lake, Larry Langston, Nancy (Tom) Strine, and Elsie Dye; numerous extended family members; countless friends; and a community that embraced, encouraged, and prayed faithfully for her throughout her life.
The family is deeply grateful for every prayer, message, act of kindness, and show of support received throughout Kaliana’s journey. Christian and Madison would also like to express their deepest gratitude to the physicians, nurses, specialists, and care teams at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital and Akron Children’s Hospital. Their compassion, dedication, and extraordinary care meant more than words can adequately express.
Kaliana was preceded in death by her great-grandparents Greta Langston, Robert Lake, Carl Light, Helen Light, William Gregory, and Bill Dye.
While Kaliana’s life was measured in 109 precious days, the impact she made will last a lifetime. Through her fight, her strength, and the faith her journey inspired, she brought people together in prayer, hope, and love. Her story became far greater than herself—it became a testimony of courage, perseverance, and God’s sustaining grace.
Though we grieve her absence, we find comfort in knowing that Kaliana is now resting safely in the arms of her Savior. The same God who entrusted her to us for a season has now welcomed her home.
Kaliana will forever be remembered as our Warrior Princess, our beautiful vessel from God, and a treasured gift whose light will continue to shine through the lives she touched.
Celebration of Life Service
Family, friends, and all those whose lives were touched by Kaliana are invited to join us as we celebrate her life and the impact she made during her 109 days with us.
A private burial will be held prior to the service.
The Celebration of Life Service will be held on Monday June 1, 2026 at 11:30 AM at the Ashland YMCA, located at 207 Miller Street, Ashland, Ohio 44805. The service will take place outdoors on the field behind the YMCA.
In just three short months, our little girl touched our lives and the lives of so many others. We welcome all who would like to be a part of this day as we come together to honor, remember, and celebrate the beautiful life of Kaliana.
Kaliana’s father, Christian Langston, will lead the service as family and friends reflect on the journey, the faith, the adversity, and the love experienced throughout Kaliana’s life. While there will be mourning and grief, there will also be celebration as we rejoice in the promise that she is now with her Savior.
Family and friends are welcome to spend time with the family following the service. A private family meal will follow afterward.
Parking will be available around the YMCA building. Gates off Holbrook Street will be opened for additional parking and access to the service, with additional parking also available at Eastgate Bible Church.
Well done, Warrior Princess.
“My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.”
Psalm 73:26
Online condolences may be left for Kaliana’s family by visiting www.heylfuneralhome.com
Heyl Funeral Home is assisting the family with funeral arrangements.
Funeral Home: Heyl Funeral Home
Website: www.heylfuneralhome.com