Laurie Ann Fike

Laurie Ann Fike, age 63, passed away peacefully on August 28, 2017 surrounded by her loving family. She was born on January 16, 1954 in Ocala, Florida to Laurie Elbert and Clara Long. She graduated from Columbia High School in 1972 and went on to receive a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Development with a minor in Psychology from the University of West Florida, and a Master’s Degree in Elementary Education from Florida A&M University. Laurie Ann married David Fike on February 15, 1975 in Lake City, Florida, and dedicated her life to educating children. Certified by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards, she taught elementary aged students for more than 33 years, served as the Principal of Melrose Park Elementary for 3 years and wrapped up her long and abounding career in the classroom, where she was most passionate, at Summers Elementary School teaching kindergarten students. Laurie Ann is survived by her parents; her husband; her three children, Jamie (Jackie) Fike, Timie (Mindy) Fike, and Amber Fike; her three grandchildren, Jayce David Fike, Rylie Ann Khachigan, and Anna Beth Fike, who were most beloved to her; her brother Clarence Long; and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.  Laurie Ann was steadfast in her determination to help those around her become the best possible versions of themselves.  She could be best summed up by William Shakespeare: “Though she be but little, she is fierce.”

Funeral services for Mrs. Fike will be conducted on Thursday, August 31, 2017 at 4 P.M. in the chapel of Gateway-Forest Lawn Funeral Home with Pastor Lonnie Johns, Pastor of Christ Central Ministries, officiating. Interment will follow in the Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Wednesday, August 30, 2017 from 5-7 P.M. at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Haven Hospice, 6037 W Us Highway 90, Lake City, FL 32055.

 Service Information