Laurel Lesniak

It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of Laurel Doris Lesniak, age 82, of Afton, Tennessee. Laurel passed away peacefully at home the night of January 29, 2026. She courageously and gracefully battled both breast and lung cancer for the past 20 years. So we will not say cancer beat her as we will not give credit to that hideous disease. Instead, we will say that after fighting so valiantly, God, looking down always watching over her said enough and lovingly brought her home where she could finally rest in His eternal perfect peace.

She is predeceased by her mother Lillian Bendzans; her father: Harold (Mickey) Merchant; her stepfather: Stanley Bendzans; her brother: Donald Merchant Sr.; her sisters: Robin Bendzans, Beverly Merchant, Carol Merchant; her nephews: Michael Merchant, Greg Merchant, Donald Merchant Jr. and her niece: Doreen Merchant.

She is survived by her husband of almost 65 years: Richard T. Lesniak; her son: Brette Lesniak and his wife Laurie; her daughter: Gayle McCue; her grandchildren: Colt Foley, Christopher McCue, Camber McCue; her great grandchildren: Jacob McCue, Hayden Foley; her brothers; Dennis Merchant, Stanley Bendzans and his wife Roxanne, Mitchell Bendzans and his wife Judy; her sister: Joyce Brown; several beloved nieces and nephews; and her most precious, can do no wrong pup, Chloe.

Laurel was, is and always will be known and remembered for her loving devotion to her family, illustrated by the most delicious home cooked meals, desserts and treats, the cozy handcrafted touches that made their home welcoming to all. The warm hugs whenever you needed one. The ear always willing to listen. The wise and sometimes blunt words of wisdom she was always ready to share.

Although so grateful she is finally free of her pain and suffering she will be incredibly missed by all those who were blessed enough to have ever been in her presence.

A private memorial service will be planned in the near future.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.kiserrosehillfuneralhome.com