Laurie Kay Bridges

In loving memory of Laurie Kay Bridges

After many years of struggling with severe COPD, Laurie Kay Bridges left this world behind and joined her Lord Jesus on July 29, 2024 at Bronson Methodist Hospital in Kalamazoo, Michigan. She was born on October 25, 1960 in Niles, Michigan to Shirley Bailey and the late Wendell Bridges. 

Laurie was a beacon of light (and sometimes fire!) to all who had the privilege of knowing her. She was a woman of unwavering faith and strength. Her love for the Lord shined brightly in all aspects of her life. You could almost always find her sitting at home with her Bible in her lap. She was described as being feisty and strong-willed, yet incredibly loving and compassionate. Laurie's love for the beauty in nature transcended words. She found solace in admiring the beauty of "a painted sky" and the incredible wonders of nature that reflected the glory of the Lord.   

Laurie truly loved her family and friends. She had a unique relationship with everyone and was especially close with her Mom, Shirley. One of Laurie's greatest joys in life was working with and training horses. Her deep connection to these incredible animals brought her immense happiness. She also found delight in watching game shows like Jeopardy and always looked forward to spending Friday evenings watching Wheel of Fortune with her dear friend, Diane. She was always eager to test her knowledge and solve puzzles. 

In her final waking moments, Laurie was surrounded by love and had her three children by her side as she drifted off to sleep. She later passed away peacefully in her sleep with her son, Shane by her side. Laurie will be dearly missed by those she leaves behind. She is survived by a loving family including her mother, Shirley Bailey; daughters Samantha (Brian) Wittenberg, Gabrielle Harmon (Ian Stone); son Shane (Shandy) Bridges; grandchildren Tearra Pratt, Tyler (Cadence) Sahli, Christopher Bennett Jr., Madison Kay Bennett, Jesse Harmon Jr., Annistyn Bridges, Kirstin Wittenberg, Brady Wittenberg; great-granddaughter Adelynne Pratt; sister Colleen (Nick) Torok; brothers Jeff Carpenter, Andy (Shelia) Carpenter, Rich (Chassidy) Bailey; aunt Linda Kinch; numerous nieces & nephews; lifelong friend Sandy Baughman; and her beloved companion, Chico. 

Laurie Kay Bridges will forever be remembered for her unwavering faith, strength of character, strong will, and boundless love for her family and friends. Laurie's passion for the teachings of the Bible and love of Jesus was evident to all who knew her and even those who didn't. Her last words show this to be so true as she repeatedly said "Oh my Lord Jesus" with such peace that one would think He was standing there before her. May her soul rest in eternal peace knowing that she has left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing her. 

There will be a Celebration of Laurie's Life on Friday, August 2nd, 2024 at 2pm at Destiny Church, 58385 Kerr Creek Road, Three Rivers, MI. The family will receive friends at the church from 12noon until 2pm. 

While at www.amsfuneralhomes.com please take time to sign Laurie's guestbook and/or share your favorite memory with her family. Those who wish may make a contribution to Destiny Church at https://getdestiny.org/donate/. 

Laurie's family is being cared for by the Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Home and Cremation Society, 129 South Grand, Schoolcraft, MI 49087 (269) 679-5622.