Gardiner- Laurie Carlson, 74, of Gardiner, Maine, lost her battle with Alzheimer's disease while at home on July 31, 2024 surrounded by loved ones. Laurie was born on March 25, 1950 in St. Johnsbury, VT to Norwood and Marjorie Merrill. Laurie graduated with the class of 1968 from Gardiner Area High School where she was a varsity cheerleader and sang in multiple choral groups. She Married Kenneth Carlson in 1970 and was a loving and supportive mother to their two children. Laurie was known for her bright smile and cheery laugh and made a genuinely positive contribution anywhere she could. She was a caregiver by nature who raised children, nursed family members, and selflessly ensured those around her were taken care of, all with a smile. She loved music, skiing, camping, being outdoors, hosting family and friends, and was especially proud of her role as a grandmother. Laurie was predeceased by an infant son, John, and her husband of 48 years, Kenneth Carlson. She is survived by her children, Kathryn Carlson and Kenneth (Meaghan) Carlson; grandchildren, Freya, Sophia, Hanna, and Asa; sisters, Patrice (Jay) Reynolds and Beth (Randy) Glidden; sister-in-law, Pati Carlson; nieces and nephews, Melissa Smart, Merrill Miah Clark, John Glidden, Jake Clark, and Miranda Pelletier; Mother-in-law Norma Porter, as well as several lifelong friends. Visiting hours celebrating Laurie's life will be held on Friday, August 9, 2024 from 4:00pm to 6:00pm at Staples Funeral Home, 53 Brunswick Ave, Gardiner, ME. A funeral service will be held on Saturday, August 10, 2024 at 10:00am at the First Baptist Church, 47 Church Street, Gardiner, ME. Burial will follow in Oak Grove Cemetery, Gardiner, ME. To view Laurie's memorial page, or to share an online condolence, please visit www.StaplesFuneralHome.com