Obituaries

Sara Lynn Rogers, age 26, died peacefully with family by her side on May 11, 2025, at the
University of Michigan Hospital in Ann Arbor, Michigan. She was born in Sault Ste. Marie,
Michigan, on September 25, 1998, to Allie and Debra (Brown) Rogers.

Sara grew up in Sault Ste. Marie and graduated from Malcolm High School. After graduation,
she went on to have two beautiful children. She pursued cosmetology school, was talented with
hair and make-up skills, and had an amazing sense of fashion. She loved to spend time with her
children, family and friends, get her tan on in the hot summer days (or during our many cold
months, tanning beds), and of course, shopping trips. Her vibrant personality did its best to shine
through to bring joy, laughter, and light into many lives, even amid her own storms. She loved
music, often turning to it for comfort, strength, or joy — it was her constant companion through
both the hard and hopeful moments. Though she had her own struggles, it never changed the way
she loved, her children and family meant the world to her. Sara was a loyal friend to many; she
was the type that would be there for you whenever she could, and when she was able, she was
always wanting to help. She carried strength and a spark of resilience that those who knew her
will never forget. Sara’s journey wasn’t easy, but it was real, and it was filled with moments of
grace, resilience, and love. She will be missed deeply and remembered with compassion.

Sara was a quiet but fierce advocate for mental health. She understood, more than most should
ever have to, the weight that invisible battles can carry. In her memory, we hope others are
reminded of how important it is to check in on those we love — even the ones who seem strong.
A simple conversation can make all the difference. Mental health is something that should never
be overlooked, knowing the signs and speaking up can make huge a huge difference.

Sara is survived by her daughter and son, Gailynn Rose Burnside and Eric Burnside Jr.; sister,
Emily (Holli) Rogers; brother, Allie (Marissa) Rogers; grandparents, Allie (Marion) Rogers, and
Leah Brown; several aunts and uncles; and a niece and two nephews who will all miss her
dearly.

Sara was preceded in death by her father, Allie; grandfather, Peter Rogers; sister, Leah Rogers;
and mother, Debra; who welcomed her back home to them with wide-open arms.

Memorial Contributions may be made in Sara’s honor to Hiawatha Behavioral Health, 3865 S.
Mackinac Trail, Sault Ste. Marie, MI, 49783.

Family Life Funeral Homes Sault assisted the family with arrangements. Condolences may be
left to the family at www.familylifefh.com.