Khaliah-Shay Kaulana Rapozo

Khaliah-Shay Kaulana Rapozo, 29, of Kapaa, passed away on Thursday, April 30, 2020, at Straub Hospital in Honolulu.

Khaliah-Shay, was born on January 2, 1991 at Wilcox Hospital, Kauai, and was a graduate of Kauai High School in 2009 through the DOE's Home Hospital Instruction Program. She had a beautiful heart like no other with an amazing kind soul. Khaliah-Shay did everything with love and inspired many lives with her strength, endurance, determination, "can do" attitude, and infectious smile. All who knew her were considered a "friend" as she would not hesitate to help others or extend a kind gesture. She was the epitome of love, compassion, and true humanity. Khaliah-Shay redefined the meaning of "daughter" encapsulating all the qualities any parent could ever hope for in a child and more. She loved her mom and dad unconditionally, and completely.

As such, she had many passions and interests. One in particular that held a special place in her heart and enjoyed tremendously was participating as a camper at the annual Cancer Kids Camp held at Camp Anuenue on Oahu. She later returned as a Counselor in Training (CIT) and volunteer where her own personal experiences as once a new camper helped to better serve the young ones with understanding and compassion. Many also knew her as gifted crafter who excelled in any sort of craftwork that caught her interest. Khaliah-Shay delighted in being a Do-It-Yourself (DIY) enthusiast. Finally, her passion for cooking was the hallmark of her creative endeavors often treating her family to exquisite and love infused delicacies. Every dish was as meticulous as how she lived life with a heart for others-- always with a huge dash of love and care.

 Many could live a lifetime never accomplishing their goals or purpose. But at the young age of 10, she made sure that one of great importance to her was achieved. Khaliah-Shay planned and organized delivering gift bags to all of the pediatric cancer kids at Kapiolani Hospital on Oahu where she herself had once received treatment. She included a photo of herself, her story, and gift cards to various eateries. A small gesture that resulted in huge smiles. This was her way of also fulfilling her heart's desire to serve as a good role model for children, instilling in them good values such as compassion, respect, hard work and responsibility. Khaliah-Shay will continue to be a bright light and source of inspiration to all she has touched. Ultimately, her hope is that everyone would live a life full of peace and love and to remember that no matter what happens, to never lose faith.

She is survived by her Father, Curtis Rapozo and her Mother, Valerie Gallardo; grandparents Mervin and Fay (Takabayashi) Rapozo and Carlos (deceased) and Magdalena Gallardo; aunt Crystal Bethel (LeRoi-deceased); aunties Corinne Gallardo Mata (Fabian), Kathleen Medeiros (Robert), Candice Gallardo; uncles Stephen Gallardo (Greta), Jeffrey Gallardo (Nornette), Sandy Gallardo (Shae); cousins Leevi, Brooks and Hunter Bethel, Enchante Gallardo, Dante Gallardo, Giselle Gallardo, Chauntel Nakata, Puna Gallardo, Jabryann Krejci (Keith), Kendrah Gallardo, Caleb Gallardo, Nicole Montalvo (Armando), Eric Medeiros, Adam Medeiros, Ashlee Gallardo; and numerous nieces and nephews.

 A celebration of love and scattering will be announced at a later date.
 

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