It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Kayla Elaine Warden, who entered eternal rest on Thursday, November 5, 2026, at the age of 39.

Kayla was born on August 1, 1987, in Farmington, Missouri, a daughter of Karen Hinkle and Gary Dunn. She was a proud graduate of Potosi High School, Class of 2005. Following graduation, Kayla immediately pursued her passion for caring for others, enrolling in the nursing program at Mineral Area College. She went on to earn her bachelor's degree in nursing and later obtained her master's degree from Central Methodist University.

Kayla was an exceptionally intelligent and dedicated woman who found great purpose in helping others. Nursing was more than a profession to her; it was a calling. Her compassion, knowledge, and commitment to her patients made a lasting impression on those she cared for. In recognition of her dedication and outstanding work, Kayla was nominated for National Nurse of the Year in 2025, an honor that reflected the difference she made in the lives of so many.

On March 26, 2012, Kayla married her best friend, Daniel Warden. Together, they shared a life filled with love, laughter, and countless cherished memories. Her family was her greatest blessing, and she took tremendous pride in being a wife and mother. She especially loved watching her son, Lane, play sports and was always there to support him in every endeavor, proudly serving as his biggest cheerleader.

Kayla also treasured the friendships she made throughout her life. She held a special place in her heart for her friends and coworkers at Mercy Hospital, whom she considered an extended family. Outside of work, she enjoyed shopping and certainly kept FedEx busy with her deliveries! These little things brought her joy and became part of the memories her loved ones will forever cherish.

Throughout her courageous battle with cancer, Kayla demonstrated remarkable strength and determination. She fought hard, faced each challenge with courage, and never gave up. Her strength, compassion, and the love she shared with those around her will remain an enduring part of her legacy.

Those who remain to cherish her memory include her loving husband, Daniel Warden; her three children, Lane Warden, Devon Barton, and Skyler Warden; her mother, Karen Johnston; her father, Gary Dunn; her brother, Nicholas Dunn; three step-siblings, Jessica (Kenny) Spivey, Brandi (JD) Johnston, and Kayla (Kody) Barlow; aunts and uncles, Scott and Katie Hinkle and Roy and Jackie Adams; special aunt, Vivian Sherrill; nieces and nephews, Trent and Chesney Dunn and Dalton and Kaitlyn Farris; bonus grandbaby, Cash; great-niece and great-nephew, Maren and Pierce; special friend, Lana Parker; along with many special cousins and dear friends.

Kayla was preceded in death by her stepfather, Andy Johnston; grandparents, Bill and Pat Hinkle, Richard Dunn, and Bill and Rita Wesbecker; and her father-in-law and mother-in-law, Randy and Jackie Warden.

A time of visitation will be held on Monday, November 9, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at DeClue Funeral Home. Visitation will resume on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, beginning at 9:00 a.m. and continuing until the time of her funeral service at 11:00 a.m. in the DeClue Chapel. Her uncle, Rev. Roy Adams, will officiate. Interment and final prayers will follow at Hopewell Cemetery.

Kayla's life was one of compassion, dedication, and love. Though her time here was far too short, the lives she touched through her nursing career, the friendships she treasured, and the family she loved so dearly will forever carry her memory forward.

Funeral arrangements were respectfully entrusted to the care and direction of DeClue Funeral Home of Potosi.