Kayla Alexi McNulty Kaplan

Kayla Alexi McNulty Kaplan, born August 29, 1996 in Pittsburgh, PA, died at the age of 27 on May 14, 2024 in Philadelphia, PA.  She is survived by her parents Lewis J. Kaplan and Maureen McNulty-Kaplan, her older and younger brothers, Aidan Connor McNulty Kaplan and Killian Eoin McNulty Kaplan, as well as Grizzly Bear, the family Akita.  Kayla developed autism at a young age - a diagnosis that shaped her childhood and adult life.  

Known for her love of family hugs, cats, farm animals, and her Akita companions (Wolfie and Nikki in particular), Kayla demonstrated a wry sense of humor and a boisterous laugh.  She was always at home in a pool or hot tub as water was one of her favorite “happy places”.  Zoos, sunsets in Cape May, and her aunt’s (Kathleen and Loretta) homes completed her list.

She was initially a student and then an adult day program participant at the Preparing Adolescents and Adults for Life (PAAL) program in Downingtown.  An avid participant, Kayla found a peer group, community engagement, and joy during her days.  A gentle soul, she charmed those around her with love.

In lieu of flowers, her family requests that donations be made in Kayla’s name to either the PAAL program (www.paalprogram.org/donate/) or Big East Akita Rescue (www.bigeastakitarescue.org/donate/).