Laura Hiss McKernan

Raised in Coral Gables, Laurie was a proud graduate of Coral Gables High School, Class of 1970. She carried her strong sense of family, community, and kindness throughout her life, touching all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Laurie was preceded in death by her parents, Marilyn Anne Ward and James Lewis Hiss, both of Coral Gables, Florida, as well as her beloved grandparents: Rubye Douglass Ward, William Gresham Ward, Mary Katherine Lewis Hiss, and Ulrich Joseph Hiss.

She is survived by her devoted husband of 50 years, Paul McKernan; her son, Patrick McKernan; her cherished grandson, Brayden McKernan; her daughter, Kelsey McKernan Brierley, and sonin-law, Kevin Brierley of Sanford, Florida. She is also survived by her brother, James Ward Hiss, and sister-in-law, Mary Julia Stephens Hiss; her sister, Anne Hiss Bowers; and her sisters-in-law, Ann Sorensen and Christine Benn. She was a beloved aunt to Susanna Hiss Pippel, Allison Hiss Harris; Katie Bowers McMillan and Keri Sorensen.

Laura was truly the heart of her family. She found her greatest joy in supporting her children and grandchildren, never missing a sports game for her children or special moment. She loved camping trips, gathering with friends, and creating memories that will be cherished for generations. Her home was a place of warmth, laughter, and open doors—where everyone was welcomed with love and no one ever left hungry. Laurie was the life of the party, always making those around her laugh and smile, and was never afraid to show her goofy side. Her kindness, generosity, and unwavering devotion to those she loved will be deeply missed.

A visitation and service will be held from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM on May 1, 2026, at Baldwin Fairchild Oaklawn Chapel, 5000 Co Rd 46A, Sanford, Florida 32771. Following the service, family and friends are invited to gather at 7:00 PM at Celery City Cigars, 114 S Palmetto Ave., Sanford, Florida 32771, to share stories, laughter, and celebrate Laurie’s life together.

Laurie’s legacy of love, hospitality, and devotion to family will live on in all who knew her.