Laurie Anne Kailing, of Hersey, passed away unexpectedly at home on November 10, 2024, surrounded by her loving husband and children. Born on October 24, 1967, in Southfield, Michigan, Laurie was the daughter of Lawrence Sanders and Margaret Semelroth. As a young child, she moved with her family to Frankfort, Michigan, where she grew up just three blocks from Lake Michigan. She spent countless summer days on the beach, often engrossed in a book, fostering her lifelong love of reading. Laurie graduated from Frankfort High School in 1986, and later on she received her Bachelor’s Degree for Accounting.

Laurie met Anthony Kailing in December 2000, and they were married on September 11, 2004. Together, they built a home along the banks of the Muskegon River in Hersey, Michigan, where they raised their children and created cherished family memories. Laurie was a devoted reader and enjoyed puzzles and numerous games, always setting aside time for family game nights with euchre, rummy, and other card games. Although she disliked snow, she had a special fondness for her collection of snowman figurines, which decorated her home during the winter months, only to be replaced by her beloved owl figurines once the snow melted. She had a love for music and enjoyed attending concerts with her husband over the years.

She looked forward to her annual trips to the Upper Peninsula with her family and especially loved the waterfalls. Laurie loved to bake, especially during the Christmas holiday. Laurie worked at Burger King in Reed City for the past eight years, bringing joy and positivity to her job every day. Following a recent stroke in September, she was optimistic about her recovery, eagerly planning to return to work in the spring.

She is survived by her husband, Anthony Kailing; children, Kirk (Lezley) and their children Joshua, Samantha, Lucas and Tyra Smith of Brooksville, Kentucky, Bryan (Cee Jae) and their children Athena, Isabelle, Ryleigh, Tessa and Blaire Smith of Evart, A.J. (Anthony) and daughter Autumn Kailing of Hersey. She is also survived by her brother, Larry Sanders of Munising; sister, Libby Sanders-Ford of Saginaw; as well as several nieces and nephews and her beloved cat Misty. Recently, Laurie connected with some of her biological siblings, a discovery that brought new connections to her life. She was preceded in death by her parents and her infant daughter, Elizabeth.

The family asks that memorial donations be made to their Go Fund Me link https://gofund.me/ad721c67 or directly to the funeral home to help assist with services.

A Funeral Mass was held Monday, November 18, 2024 at 11 a.m. at the St. Mary Catholic Church in Big Rapids with one hour of Visitation prior to the service with Reverend Daniel DePew officiating. Laurie will be laid to rest at Mt. Carmel Cemetery.

Arrangements are under the care of Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Home, Big Rapids. To leave a memory or share a condolence, please visit www.daggettgilbertfuneralhome.com.