Ashley Jean Laing

Ashley was a beautiful little cherub born in Olongapo, Philippines.  She was so playful and curious and loved to stand up and hold on to the handlebars of the tricycle while riding in her Kuya’s lap.  In contrast to her boisterous older sister, she was watchful and then would act.  Quick to laugh but also would bang her head if she didn’t get her way.  She was a real joy to her family.

At fifteen months, she had a near drowning incident at the pool.  Her father found her face down and rushed her to the hospital.  With diffused hypoxia, her life was forever changed and she was confined to her bed.  The family moved her to the US to avail of the best medical care at first in Minnesota and eventually here in NW Mississippi.

Ashley was in and out of the hospital with complications resulting from her accident. She had over seven major operations over the years but she stayed in the home with her family and her Mother resulting in a high quality of life constantly being surrounded by the sounds of the home, her family, and brothers and sisters.

She also benefited greatly from the love and tenacity of her Grandma, who found programs and benefits for her; her mother Annabelle who constantly struggled with the care requirements and helping busy doctors understand Ashley’s care requirements, and a staff of compassionate nurses led by Maggie Pejo who was her primary care manager for over ten years.

Unfortunately we always knew that her risk of respiratory compromise was her biggest threat.  On 23 October she begin showing signs of an infection, she went into the hospital but after so many years of struggle she succumbed to respiratory failure.

In spite of her handicaps, she was always a joy to our family – she touched everyone who came in contact with her as a lovely tough little fighter who deserved so much better in this world but can now rest in the loving arms of her Savior, who has waited patiently for her to come home.

She is survived by her Mother, Ruby Anna (Annabelle) Laing, Father, Gary Laing, her older brother Justin Laing, her older sister, Tanya Laing, her younger sister Cloie Laing and her younger brother, Gary “JR” Laing.  Her Grandma, Betty Laing was also at her bedside when she passed, along with several of her nurses including Maggie Pejo.  The family wants to extend special thanks to all the nurses who have cared for Ashley over the years and also to Dr. Eileen Gayaso who helped us understand the medical problems and courses of action.

Visitation will be Thursday, Nov. 5, 2015 from 10 A.M. until the Mass begins at 11 A.M. at Christ the King Catholic Church, 785 Church Road, Southaven, MS 38671.